University of Michigan

The University of Michigan consistently ranks among the best public universities globally, with strong placements in all major international rankings. For 2025 and 2026, Michigan is ranked #45 in the QS World University Rankings, #23 in Times Higher Education (THE), and #21 in U.S. News National Universities. 

Its global standing remains stable, with only minor fluctuations across ranking bodies, reflecting its sustained academic excellence and research impact.

Below is the table mentioning the University of Michigan's rankings: 

After global ranking, it's equally important to examine how the University of Michigan programs perform in international and national subject rankings.

Top Course-wise Ranking 2025

The University of Michigan stands out in the 2025 subject-wise rankings, achieving top global positions across several disciplines: #1 in Supply Chain Management, #10 in Sociology, #14 in Mechanical Engineering, #18 in Nursing, #18 in Law, #18 in Clinical & Health, and #19 in Engineering. These impressive rankings underscore Michigan's academic excellence and leadership in diverse fields.

Here's a table with detailed subject-specific rankings for the University of Michigan in 2025:

Now that you have explored the University of Michigan's global and subject-specific rankings, let's check out the programs you can study at University of Michigan.

The main application deadlines for international undergraduates are October 1, 2025 (Winter), November 1, 2025 (Early Action), and February 1, 2026 (Fall, Spring, Summer, tentative). 

Graduate program deadlines vary by department, with some closing as early as December and others accepting applications into the spring. MBA courses in the USA at Ross follow a round-based system, with Round 3 closing March 24, 2026 (tentative).

Below is a summary of key intakes and deadlines for the University of Michigan admissions 2025:

Planning your finances is also crucial before applying to the University of Michigan, as tuition and fees vary significantly by campus and program.

The University of Michigan maintains a highly selective admissions process. International students typically need a robust academic record with a GPA equivalent to 3.8 or higher, standardized test scores if required by the program, and English proficiency demonstrated by TOEFL scores of 100+ or IELTS 7.0+.

Let’s break down the core University of Michigan admission requirements.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must submit a completed application (Common App or Coalition App for undergraduates), official transcripts, English proficiency scores (TOEFL iBT 100+ or IELTS 7.0+ for most programs), a statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation. Some programs require SAT/ACT or GRE/GMAT scores.

Now, let’s look at the precise academic qualification expectations.

Academic Qualification

Undergraduate applicants must have completed a recognized secondary education curriculum with strong grades in relevant subjects and present a GPA equivalent of 3.8/4.0 or higher. Graduate applicants need a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, with a minimum GPA of 3.5/4.0.

Below is the table with key academic requirements to study in USA for undergraduate and postgraduate admissions:

Language Proficiency

International applicants to the University of Michigan must demonstrate English language proficiency through standardized tests. Most programs require a minimum TOEFL iBT score of 100 or an IELTS band score of 7.0. 

Accepted exams also include the Michigan English Test (MET), Michigan Language Assessment (MELAB), and Examination for the Certificate of Proficiency in English (ECPE).

Here’s a summary of accepted language proficiency tests and their minimum scores:

Note: These are the average scores, but submitting higher, competitive scores can significantly strengthen your application. 

Competitive Exams

A competitive University of Michigan application stands out with top-tier standardized exam scores. The middle 50% of admitted undergraduates who submitted scores earned between 1400–1540 on the SAT and 32–35 on the ACT, while graduate and professional programs require GRE, GMAT, LSAT, or MCAT scores that align with national medians for elite institutions. 

The university’s test-optional policy means strong scores can enhance an application but are not mandatory for most undergraduate programs

Here’s a detailed competitive exam requirement: 

Note: These are the average scores, but submitting higher, competitive scores can significantly strengthen your application. 

Visa Requirements 

International students admitted to the University of Michigan must obtain an F-1 student visa or J-1 visa. 

The university issues the required I-20 (F-1) or DS-2019 (J-1) form only after verifying financial documentation that proves the student can cover the full cost of attendance, including tuition and living expenses, for at least one academic year

Below is a summary of the USA study visa requirements for Indian students and their details:

Staying on top of application deadlines is critical, as the University of Michigan offers multiple intakes and each program has strict cut-off dates for international applicants.

The University of Michigan offers over 275+ degree programs across 14 schools and colleges, covering undergraduate courses, graduate courses, and professional levels in nearly every academic discipline. This breadth allows students to pursue specialized studies in fields ranging from engineering and business to the arts, health sciences, and social sciences.

Below are some of the best courses to study in USA at the University of Michigan: 

• Doctor of Medicine (MD): The Medical School offers this professional degree, with nationally ranked programs and extensive clinical and research opportunities.
• Juris Doctor (JD): The Law School’s JD program is one of the oldest and most prestigious in the country, with a strong track record in graduate placement.
• Master of Science in Engineering (MSE): Graduate-level program focused on advanced computing and engineering topics.
• Master of Public Health (MPH): Offered by the School of Public Health, with specializations in epidemiology, health management, and more.
• Master of Applied Data Science (MADS): An online program from the School of Information, emphasizing hands-on data science skills.
• Master of Business Administration (MBA): The Ross School’s MBA is globally recognized for leadership and innovation.
• Bachelor of Science in Engineering (BSE): Offered by the College of Engineering, this program is consistently ranked among the top mechanical engineering degrees in the US.
• Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA): The Ross School of Business provides this highly competitive undergraduate business degree, known for its leadership and global focus.
• BS in Computer Science: Available through both the College of Engineering and the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts (LSA), this program is recognized for its research and industry connections.

Now that you have an idea of the top courses at the University of Michigan, it’s important to understand the financial investment required for these programs.

According to US News and World Report, the University of Michigan acceptance rate is 18%, which means out of every 100 applications only 18 are selected, which makes it highly competitive to get selected into the university. 

For 2025, the cost of studying in the USA at the University of Michigan Ann Arbor is $63,081 (INR 53.79 L) for international students. At UM-Dearborn, undergraduate tuition is $15,840 (INR 13.51 L) for residents and $33,768 (INR 28.80 L) for non-residents. Graduate and professional program costs differ, with engineering and business programs generally at the higher end of the range.

Here’s a table of key programs and their average annual tuition for 2025,

Note: Application fees may vary; INR amounts are approximate and based on current exchange rates.

Accurately estimating living expenses is also important for international students planning their total budget at the University of Michigan.

The average annual cost of living in the USA for international students at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor is approximately $18,000 (INR 15.4 L), covering accommodation, meals, transportation, health insurance, and personal expenses. These costs vary based on lifestyle and housing choices, but the university provides precise estimates to help students plan.

Here’s a breakdown of average annual living expenses:

Note: The currency conversions are based on the current exchange rate.

Securing financial support is a top priority, especially given the significant investment required for a high-quality education. Let’s have a look at the scholarships awarded by the University of Michigan.

The University of Michigan’s tuition fees for international students are distinctly set by campus, program, and degree level. Ann Arbor’s undergraduate tuition is $63,081 (INR 53.8 L) annually for non-residents, making it one of the highest among US public universities. 

Tuition rates for the Dearborn and Flint campuses are significantly lower, with undergraduate fees around $29,000 (INR 24.7 L) and $23,000 (INR 19.6 L) respectively.

Below is a summary of University of Michigan courses and their annual tuition fees:

Note: 

• Fees may vary depending on the specialization. Please refer to the official website for the most up-to-date information.
• Fees in INR are approximate and may vary with currency exchange rate fluctuations.

Next, let’s understand the University of Michigan's admissions process for the 2025 entry.

The University of Michigan’s scholarship offerings include substantial financial support specific to diverse student profiles. Internal scholarships include merit scholarships for non-resident and international students. 

The International Student Scholarship in the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts (LSA) awards up to $25,000 (INR 21.4L) annually, totalling $100,000 (INR 86.1L) over four years.

Let’s take a detailed look at some of the University of Michigan scholarship options.

Internal Scholarships

The university and its colleges provide over 20 distinct internal scholarships, including the prestigious International Student Scholarship to incoming international undergraduates. 

Eligibility is determined primarily by GPA, with awards ranging from $5,000 (INR 4.33L) to $12,500 (INR 10.82L) annually for non-resident undergraduates.

Below is a list of some internal scholarships to study in the USA:

Along with internal scholarships, you can explore financial aid opportunities provided by government programs and trusts.

External Scholarships

External scholarships at the University of Michigan include targeted awards like the ASME Scholarship ($1,000–$10,000/INR 87 K- 8.66 L for engineering majors), MPower Women in STEM Courses (up to $6,000/INR 5.20L for international women), and the DoD SMART Scholarship (full tuition and stipend for STEM students). Each requires direct application.

Below are some external scholarship options: 

Next, let's take a closer look at the placement details of the University of Michigan

Student life at Michigan is defined by its scale and diversity: you'll join a community of more than 50,000 students, access 1,600+ student organizations, attend Division I NCAA athletic events at Michigan Stadium ("The Big House”), and enjoy a campus ranked among the top 10 for happiest students and best college towns in the U.S. Ann Arbor offers 300+ restaurants and hosts the annual Ann Arbor Art Fair, one of the largest in the country.

Here are specific highlights that define student life at the University of Michigan:

• Student Organizations: Choose from over 1,700 registered student organizations, including the Michigan Daily (student newspaper), Solar Car Team, Michigan Marching Band, Black Undergraduate Kinesiology Association, and the Michigan Alternative Investments Club.
• Housing & Residential Life: Live in one of 18 residence halls, many with themed Living Learning Communities such as the Michigan Community Scholars Program and Women in Science and Engineering Residence Program. Dining options exceed 1,480 combinations.
• Athletics & Recreation: Participate in 29 NCAA Division I varsity teams, join club and intramural sports, or access Intramural Sports Building. Unique offerings include the University of Michigan Figure Skating Club and Powerlifting Club.
• Arts & Culture: Attend over 60 annual performances by the University Musical Society, explore the University of Michigan Museum of Art, and experience the Ann Arbor Film Festival, one of the longest-running independent film festivals in North America.
• Health & Wellness: Access 24/7 urgent care at University Health Service, mental health support through CAPS, and wellness programs that include fitness classes, workshops, and peer support groups.
• Diversity & Inclusion: Join a community with over 7,000 international students from 120+ countries, supported by the International Center and multicultural student organizations.
• Career Services: Benefit from 15+ annual career fairs, 8,000+ on-campus interviews, and sector-specific networking events, all coordinated by the University Career Center to connect you with top employers and alumni mentors.

Apart from a strong campus culture, the University of Michigan’s alumni network is among the largest and most influential in the world.

The University of Michigan reports outstanding employability skills with a 95% graduate employment rate, and MBA graduates achieving a 96% placement rate. Career support includes on-campus recruiting, career expos, and industry-specific networking, ensuring strong outcomes for both undergraduate and postgraduate students.

Below are the details on internship and co-op program opportunities provided to students at the University of Michigan: 

• On-Campus Recruiting & Career Fairs: Over 15 annual career fairs and 8,000+ on-campus interviews connect you directly with employers like Google, Amazon, Ford, and Deloitte through the University Career Center.
• Public Service Intern Program (PSIP): Provides paid summer internships in Washington, D.C., placing students with federal agencies, congressional offices, and nonprofits.
• Engineering Co-op Program: College of Engineering students can participate in structured co-op programs, alternating semesters of full-time study with paid work at partner companies such as General Motors and IBM.
• Ross School of Business Internships: MBA students secure internships with a 100% placement rate, often at top firms in consulting, finance, and tech, with median internship salaries exceeding $8,000 (INR 6.93L) per month.
• Information Science Internships: School of Information students are recruited for internships at leading companies like Microsoft, Salesforce, and JP Morgan, with 97% securing employment or internships before graduation.
• Employer Immersion & Challenge Programs: Participate in short-term, project-based experiences with companies through Employer Challenge and Immersion programs, gaining practical skills and networking opportunities.

Let's take a look at some of the top recruiters who hire graduates from the University of Michigan.

Top recruiters

Graduates from the University of Michigan are recruited by top employers across technology, consulting, finance, healthcare, and automotive sectors, frequently securing top jobs in the USA. 

The university’s strong industry partnerships and career services ensure students land the highest-paying jobs, with average annual salaries ranging from $88,000 (INR 74.9L) to $175,000 (INR 1.49Cr) depending on the field and degree level.

Here’s a look at some of the top recruiters, job roles, and average annual salaries offered:

• Google: Hires Software Engineers for key technical roles across global teams.
• Amazon: Recruits Data Scientists to work on advanced analytics and machine learning projects.
• Deloitte: Offers Management Consultant positions focused on strategy and operations.
• J.P. Morgan Chase: Hires Investment Bankers for roles in corporate finance and advisory.
• Ford Motor Company: Employs Mechanical Engineers in product development and innovation.
• Microsoft: Offers Product Manager roles driving cross-functional product strategies.
• McKinsey & Co.: Recruits Associates for high-impact consulting projects across industries.
• General Motors: Hires Electrical Engineers for work in automotive systems and innovation.

Beyond career prospects, experiencing student life at the University of Michigan offers a welcoming and supportive community. Now, let's explore what student life at the University of Michigan has to offer you.

With over 640,000 living alumni across 180 countries, Michigan graduates have left a lasting mark in fields ranging from science and technology to politics, sports, and the arts. 

The University of Michigan’s graduates include notable figures such as Gerald Ford, the 38th President of the United States, Olympic champion Michael Phelps, and Google co-founder Larry Page.

Here are some of the most distinguished University of Michigan alumni:

Now, compare the University of Michigan directly with MIT and Princeton University to choose the best fit for your academic and professional goals.

The University of Michigan operates three distinct campuses, Ann Arbor, Dearborn, and Flint, each with its own academic focus, facilities, and reputation. The Ann Arbor campus is the flagship, consistently ranked among the top 25 national universities.

Dearborn and Flint serve as regional campuses, offering strong undergraduate and professional programs with a focus on accessibility and community engagement.

Let’s take a closer look at each campus and its unique features:

1. Ann Arbor Campus

• Flagship campus with a total undergraduate enrollment of 33,730.
• Divided into four main areas: Central Campus (humanities, social sciences, business), North Campus (engineering, architecture, arts), Medical Center Campus (clinical, research, and educational hub for Michigan Medicine), and Ross Athletic Campus.
• Home to major student and faculty achievements, including the Richard F. and Eleanor A. Towner Prize for Distinguished Academic Achievement and national awards in engineering, chemistry, and creative writing.
• Undergoing major transformation under Campus Plan 2050, including the development of an innovation district, sustainability upgrades, and enhanced connectivity between campus zones.

2. Dearborn Campus

• Recognized for strong industry partnerships and practical, career-oriented education, especially in engineering, business, and computer science.
• Plays a key role in the Innovation Corridor, connecting Detroit and Ann Arbor to promote economic growth, job creation, and entrepreneurship in Southeast Michigan.
• Actively involved in Detroit's educational transformation through the U-M Center for Innovation and the Marygrove initiative, expanding access and impact in urban education.
• Has produced graduates who are leaders in Michigan’s workforce, contributing to regional development and community engagement.

3. Flint Campus

• Distinguished for its commitment to community engagement and accessible, affordable education in health sciences, business, and education.
• Supports regional economic development and workforce preparation, with many graduates serving in healthcare and education roles throughout Michigan.
• Recognized for service learning and partnerships that address local needs, strengthening ties between the university and the Flint community.
• Continues to expand academic offerings and student support services to meet the evolving needs of the region.

Next, let’s have a look at how the University of Michigan's overall performance is reflected across different ranking platforms. 

MIT is renowned for its dominance in STEM fields, with an MIT acceptance rate of 4.8%, and STEM programs like Computer Science and Engineering are consistently rated #1. Princeton has a 4.4% acceptance rate, with strengths in Economics, Public Policy, and Molecular Biology. 

The University of Michigan offers 275+ degree programs and is recognized for its research volume and value, and the University of Michigan acceptance rate is 17%.

Here’s a precise side-by-side comparison of these top US universities:

Note: The tuition fee is calculated as the average for top courses.