The University of Michigan, a prestigious research institution known for its academic rigor and diverse community, sets high standards for its incoming students. In this article, we will dive into the University of Michigan’s ACT requirements and breakdown of ACT scores. Make sure to also explore our article on the University of Michigan’s SAT expectations!
In line with its commitment to excellence, the University of Michigan’s average composite ACT score is approximately 33 out of a possible 36 points. This surpasses the national average of around 21. Among students admitted to the University of Michigan, the 25th percentile score was 31, while the 75th percentile score was a remarkable 34. This illustrates the high academic standards upheld by the University of Michigan. However, it also highlights the range of scores among admitted students, indicating that there isn’t a singular score requirement for admission.
The ACT composite score comprises four sections: English, mathematics, reading, and science. Let’s dive into the specifics of the University of Michigan’s ACT English and Math score statistics.
Among successful applicants, the average ACT English score at the University of Michigan ranges between 33 and 35, which are the 25th and 75th percentiles respectively. The average English score sits at 35, indicating that 50% of admitted students have scores at or above 35. At the same time, 50% of admitted students have scores at or below 35. This indicates exceptional performance by University of Michigan students on the English section of the ACT, with many achieving perfect or near-perfect scores.
The average ACT Math score among students admitted to the University of Michigan falls within the 25th and 75th percentiles of 29 and 35, respectively. This means that the lowest quarter of students accepted into the University of Michigan submitted scores at or below 29. In contrast, the highest quarter of accepted students submitted scores of 35 and above. Additionally, an ACT Math score of 32 positions an applicant in the 50% percentile of scorers at the University of Michigan.
While the range of these scores are slightly lower than those in the English section, they remain notably high. As with other sections, there isn’t a specific benchmark that applicants must meet for admission.
Starting with students matriculating into the academic term of winter 2025, the University of Michigan has implemented a test-optional policy for undergraduate admissions. This means that applicants are not required to submit standardized test scores. Moreover, opting not to submit scores will not disadvantage applicants. However, students are encouraged to submit any materials and scores they believe will strengthen their application. If you have an ACT score you’re proud of, feel free to include it with your application: strong scores can bolster your application.
Applicants can self-report their ACT scores in their applications. Admitted students planning to enroll must later submit official test score documentation.
Consistent with their test-optional policy, the University of Michigan does not require the Writing section of the ACT. However, applicants are welcome to submit Writing section scores along with their multiple-choice section scores if they wish.
More details about the University of Michigan’s SAT requirements can be found on their official Requirements and Deadlines webpage.
Of the students who enrolled at the University of Michigan in the fall of 2021, 24% submitted ACT scores, while 54% submitted SAT scores. Meanwhile, around 22% of admitted students submitted neither exam. From these statistics, it’s clear that a significant percentage of students are admitted into the University of Michigan despite not submitting standardized test scores. In addition, the SAT remains popular among University of Michigan applicants, as more than twice as many admitted students took the SAT instead of the ACT.
While the SAT remains the most popular choice among accepted applicants, there’s no preference for one standardized test over the other, or for omitting test scores entirely. The decision should be based on individual strengths, weaknesses, and scores.
The decision of whether to submit scores is entirely personal. However, it’s important to note that strong scores can bolster an application. Therefore, if circumstances allow, we recommend that every applicant take either the ACT or SAT at least once.
A good rule of thumb is to compare scores to the college’s average and, if they fall within or above the middle 50% range, consider them comparable to the college’s standard. In such cases, submitting scores will likely enhance the application.
The University of Michigan creates superscores for applicants, which means they consider the highest scores in each section across multiple test dates. Applicants may choose to submit multiple test scores, and the University will assess the best sub-scores reported.
Moreover, the University of Michigan allows applicants to use the ACT equivalent of the College Board Score Choice option. This means applicants can select which test dates to submit scores from.
The University of Michigan does not have set ACT score requirements or cutoffs. Admissions decisions are based on a holistic evaluation of each applicant’s strengths and achievements. Nevertheless, the vast majority of admitted students have highly competitive scores. Aiming for a score within a point or two of the average, which hovers around 33, can position an applicant for success. The top 25% of ACT scorers at the University of Michigan achieved a 34 or higher composite score, indicating that a “good” score for applicants will be notably high.
| Section | 25th | 50th | 75th |
|---|---|---|---|
| Composite | 31 | 33 | 34 |
| English | 33 | 35 | 35 |
| Math | 29 | 32 | 35 |
Getting into the University of Michigan with a low ACT score is not impossible, especially since the University is now test-optional. That said, even an ACT score at the lower end of the range will still be quite high, as the lowest quartile of University of Michigan scorers achieved up to a 31. Therefore, aiming for the average score of a 33, if not higher, would be advisable.
While standardized testing is important, an applicant’s academic transcript and extracurricular achievements also play crucial roles in the application process. Applicants should also focus on writing strong essays, especially if they have a lower ACT score.
The junior spring of high school, preceding college application deadlines, is considered an ideal time to take standardized tests for college admissions. The University of Michigan specifically asks that students applying via Early Action submit SAT or ACT scores by November 15. Regular Decision applicants can submit scores up until February 1.
The ACT code for submitting official test scores to the University of Michigan is 2062.
While the University of Michigan no longer requires applicants to submit ACT or SAT test scores, strong scores can still enhance an application. However, choosing not to take the exams or to omit scores from an application will not harm an overall strong applicant. Ultimately, the decision of whether to take and submit exam scores is personal and should be evaluated in the context of individual strengths, goals, and priorities. If you are considering the SAT instead, be sure to check out our article on the University of Michigan’s SAT statistics!
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