Short answer: University of Michigan's average SAT score is 1470, with a competitive middle-50% range of 1430-1510. UMich is test-optional for most programs, but with an acceptance rate around 15.6%, a strong score still meaningfully strengthens an application, especially in Math given the university's strong engineering and business programs.
Key takeaways
- UMich's average SAT is 1470, with the middle 50% of admits scoring between 1430 and 1510.
- Math scores run slightly higher on average (760) than Reading and Writing (720), reflecting UMich's STEM and business strength.
- The acceptance rate is around 15.6%, making a strong score necessary but not sufficient on its own.
- Michigan State and Western Michigan have meaningfully lower competitive SAT ranges than UMich.
Average SAT score for University of Michigan
UMich's average SAT composite among admitted students is 1470, with a middle-50% range of 1430 at the 25th percentile to 1510 at the 75th percentile.
SAT score breakdown by section
| Section | Average | Range |
|---|---|---|
| Math | 760 | 730-780 |
| Reading & Writing | 720 | 690-750 |
The slightly higher Math average reflects the strength and selectivity of UMich's engineering and business applicant pool.
Does UMich require SAT scores?
UMich is test-optional for most programs. Still, with an acceptance rate around 15.6%, students who test well typically benefit from submitting a score that reinforces the rest of a strong application.
What GPA does UMich expect?
The average unweighted GPA among admitted students is around 3.9, generally built on a rigorous course load that includes AP or honors classes.
How Michigan State and Western Michigan compare
| School | Middle 50% SAT | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|---|
| University of Michigan | 1430-1510 | ~15.6% |
| Michigan State University | 1120-1330 | ~76% |
| Western Michigan University | 1060-1230 | ~82% |
The gap between these schools is substantial, which makes them useful as a realistic range of options for students at different score levels within the state.
How to improve your SAT score for UMich
- Take a diagnostic test first to establish a real starting point.
- Target the weaker of the two sections rather than splitting time evenly.
- Take full-length timed practice tests to build stamina alongside content knowledge.
- Review every wrong answer in detail, not just the final score.
Targeting a competitive score for a school like UMich?
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