Public
Accredited · Higher Learning Commission
Dearborn, Michigan
58.6% Acceptance Rate
University of Michigan-Dearborn — Admission Snapshot 2026
A complete at-a-glance picture of every metric that matters for your 2026 application
58.6%Acceptance Rate
3.66Avg GPA
1127Avg SAT
27Avg ACT
$22,435Annual Cost
$59,649Grad Salary
43.9%Pell Grant
Acceptance Rate
58.6%
Avg GPA
3.66
Avg SAT
1127
Avg ACT
27
Selectivity
Somewhat Selective
Institution Type
Public
Campus
Main Campus
Accredited By
Higher Learning Commission
SAT Middle 50%
990–1260
ACT Middle 50%
23–30
Avg Net Price
$10,904
Need-Based Aid
43.9% receive Pell
The University of Michigan-Dearborn, established in 1959, is a public university known for its strong engineering, business, and computer science programs. Located in Dearborn, Michigan, it ranks among the top regional universities in the Midwest, offering a blend of research opportunities and industry connections.
The campus features modern facilities, including engineering labs, a business innovation center, and collaborative study spaces. Its proximity to Detroit provides students with internship and career opportunities, while its diverse student body enriches the learning experience.
University of Michigan-Dearborn Acceptance Rate
University of Michigan-Dearborn is somewhat selective in its admission process. The acceptance rate of University of Michigan-Dearborn is 58.6%. This means that 59 out of every 100 applicants get admitted.
Admissions Guidelines
- Broad Evaluation: Personal growth and vocational goals are considered alongside grades.
- Flexible Standards: Strengths in extracurriculars can often balance an average GPA.
Selectivity at a Glance
Somewhat Selective
Selectivity scale: Somewhat Selective — 58.6% acceptance rate
Most Selective (0%)Open Enrollment (100%)
Recommended Academic Profile
Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
3.66 – 4.00
Target Match
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
3.46 – 3.65
Competitive Reach
Focus on Score Compensation
Below 3.21
Secondary Reach
Requires Contextual Support
Data verified via IPEDS, College Scorecard (Nov 2025) and the Common Data Set (CDS). Expert Review led by Sohaib Khan and Dr. Waseem.
UM-Dearborn GPA Requirement
The average GPA of the admitted students at UM-Dearborn is 3.66. UM-Dearborn is highly selective.
Mostly A's with a few B's will keep you competitive. Taking AP/IB courses related to your field will improve your chances.
Note: This is an unweighted GPA on a 4.0 scale. Students with AP or IB courses will typically have a weighted GPA of 3.86-4.06 for this same academic profile.If your GPA is between 3.36 and 3.66, a strong SAT or ACT score is recommended.
UM-Dearborn GPA & Admission Outlook
Assessment: Selective; solid academic performance is expected.
Recommended Strategy: Focus on a Strong 'Spike' in extracurriculars or research.
Admissions at UM-Dearborn utilize a Holistic Review process. With an average admitted GPA of 3.66, the following table illustrates how your specific academic profile aligns with institutional expectations.
Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
3.66 – 4.00
Target/Match
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
3.46 – 3.65
Competitive Match
Focus on SAT/ACT Compensation
3.26 – 3.45
Secondary Reach
Personal Statement & Impact
Below 3.25
Institutional Reach
Requires Significant Contextual Factors
Expert Insight: 2026 Evaluation Metrics
- Acceptance rate: approximately 56?59% (2024?25: ~12,373 applicants, ~7,254 admitted); no application fee; no personal essay or letter of recommendation required; test-optional (scores considered if submitted); applying by December 1 is recommended for scholarship consideration; hard deadline April 1; Michigan residents with GPA 3.0+ qualify for guaranteed admission via the Michigan Assured Admissions Pact.
- UM-Dearborn was founded in 1959 on 202 acres of the former Henry Ford estate, established with a direct Ford Motor Company gift of land and $6.5 million; it is the only fully commuter campus among Michigan's 15 public universities; Carnegie classified R2 (Doctoral ? High Research) as of 2025 and designated a top-tier "Opportunity University" by Carnegie and ACE for access and graduate earnings for lower-income students.
- 82% of first-year students receive need-based financial aid; average net price for federal loan recipients: $12,102; lowest annual average cost among all 15 Michigan public universities (per U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard); 94% of students are Michigan residents; 44% are first-generation college students; over 95% of employed graduates work in Michigan.
- The Learn4ward partnership with adjacent Henry Ford College (HFC) provides guaranteed admission to UM-Dearborn for students completing HFC programs, with articulation agreements for specific academic pathways covering both an associate and bachelor's degree in 4?6 years; UM-Dearborn's SOAR Program supports nontraditional students including returning adults, parents, veterans, and formerly incarcerated students with dedicated advising and resources.
- The Rigor Metric: At UM-Dearborn, a slightly lower GPA (e.g., 3.8) in a transcript featuring multiple AP or IB courses is often prioritized over a 4.0 in a standard curriculum.
- The Upward Trend: If your early high school grades were lower, an upward trajectory in 11th and 12th grade demonstrates Academic Resilience.
Data Source: Verified via IPEDS and latest Common Data Set (CDS). Reviewed by our academic board led by Sohaib Khan and Dr. Waseem.
Check Your Admission Chances at UM-Dearborn
Admission Chance Predictor
Real-Time Sensitive Analysis — based on University of Michigan-Dearborn's verified institutional data
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Calculating Profile...
Adjust the sliders to see how every decimal point affects your outcome.
Your SAT Score 1200
Your Unweighted GPA 3.00
✅ Verified Data: Institutional records for 2026.
Calculated via College Portal's Human-Intelligence (HI) Methodology & Editorial Standards. Verified by Sohaib Ahmad Khan.
University of Michigan-Dearborn (UM-Dearborn) Test Requirements
In this competitive environment, standardized scores are no longer elective; they serve as a critical standardized benchmark to validate high school GPA and course rigor. Applicants should aim for scores within or above the middle 50% range of the 2026 admitted class to remain viable in the Holistic Review process. At institutions that remain test-optional, submitting a high-percentile score is still the primary strategy for securing merit-based scholarships and distinguishing one's profile in a high-volume applicant pool.
Can I Get Into UM-Dearborn Without SAT or ACT?
University of Michigan-Dearborn considers admission test scores (SAT/ACT) during the application process but does not require them. Although it is not strictly a requirement, the test scores are considered for admission decisions. Hence, it is advisable to prepare well for the test and submit the best scores. Normally, students may appear in the test 2 to 3 times to improve their scores.
University of Michigan-Dearborn Average SAT Score: 1127
The average SAT score of the admitted students at University of Michigan-Dearborn is 1127 on the 1600 SAT scale.
SAT Competitiveness
SAT 1127 — Less Competitive
This score makes it less competitive for SAT test scores. You need to put average efforts to score 1127 on the SAT.
Key Insight: Aim for the 75th percentile (1260 SAT or 30 ACT) to stand out. If your scores are below average, consider retaking the test. University of Michigan-Dearborn allows Score Choice for the SAT and Superscoring for the ACT, giving you flexibility to submit your best scores.
If your score is below 990, retaking the SAT is strongly recommended to improve your chances at UM-Dearborn. Retaking the test multiple times is completely normal — most competitive applicants take the SAT two or three times to achieve their best score. There is no official limit on attempts.
SAT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| SAT Math | 560 | 490 | 630 |
| SAT Reading | 565 | 500 | 630 |
| SAT Composite | 1127 | 990 | 1260 |
It means that if you have scored less than 990 then you are below most of the admitted students at UM-Dearborn and your chances of admission are very few. But if you have scored 1260 or more, your chances of admission are higher. 25th percentile means that only 25% of the admitted students have fewer scores than this score. 75th percentile marks the score of the upper 25% of the students.
View list of all colleges with average SAT score of 1150
Can I get into University of Michigan-Dearborn (UM-Dearborn) with a 1250 SAT?
With a 1250 SAT Score, your chances of admission at University of Michigan-Dearborn (UM-Dearborn) are good but the admission staff at UM-Dearborn tests your all-around personality and your academics. Your GPA, Class performance, SAT/ACT/Test scores, and AP or IB Courses can help your application stand out. Co-curricular and extra-curricular activities and interpersonal communication skills are very important. Additionally, if you cannot perform well in one area, you have a chance to showcase your strengths and abilities in other areas, improving other areas will help you secure admission. You need to show better performance in all areas. An equally high GPA, taking IB or AP Courses and your role in leadership activities will increase your chances of admission. However, if you equally compete well in all other areas, your chances of admission are high.
University of Michigan-Dearborn (UM-Dearborn) ACT Requirements
The average ACT Score at UM-Dearborn is 27.
ACT Competitiveness
ACT 27 — Competitive
This score makes University of Michigan-Dearborn Competitive for ACT scores. You need to do well to score 27 on the ACT.
ACT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACT Math | 26 | 23 | 29 |
| ACT English | 27 | 23 | 30 |
| ACT Composite | 27 | 23 | 30 |
Can I get into University of Michigan-Dearborn with a 30 ACT?
A 30 ACT places you at the 75th percentile of admitted students at University of Michigan-Dearborn — meaning you score higher than 75% of students who were accepted. This is a strong position, but the ACT is just one dimension of your application. Admissions officers at University of Michigan-Dearborn use the ACT as a benchmark to validate your academic readiness, not as a standalone admission ticket.
Unlike the SAT, the ACT measures four distinct subject areas — English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science — each scored on a 1–36 scale. If one of your section scores is significantly lower than the others, admissions staff will notice the imbalance. For example, a weak ACT Science score at a STEM-focused institution carries more weight than the same weakness at a liberal arts college. It is worth reviewing your section-level scores and addressing any outliers before applying.
One important advantage the ACT has over the SAT is that University of Michigan-Dearborn — like most US universities — accepts Superscoring for the ACT, meaning they take your highest section scores across multiple test attempts and combine them into a new composite. If you have taken the ACT more than once, confirm whether University of Michigan-Dearborn uses Superscoring, as this could meaningfully improve your effective composite beyond what any single sitting shows.
Beyond your score, what ultimately determines admission at this level is the strength of your overall profile. Your unweighted GPA, course rigor (AP, IB, or dual enrollment), extracurricular depth, letters of recommendation, and personal essays all carry significant weight. A 30 ACT gets your application through the first filter — but your essays and activities are what move it forward from there.
Your 2026 Admissions Roadmap for UM-Dearborn
Accessible Strategy: Academic Foundation
UM-Dearborn is accessible to students who show core competency. The focus should be on proving readiness for college-level work and securing financial aid.
Apply for Free - No Application Fee, No Essay, No Letter of Recommendation Required
UM-Dearborn charges no application fee for first-year students, requires no personal essay, and requires no letters of recommendation. This is not a reflection of lower selectivity - it reflects the university's explicit mission as an access-focused institution (named a top-tier "Opportunity University" by Carnegie and the American Council on Education in 2025). The application requires a high school transcript, self-reported test scores (optional), and basic information. Applying by December 1 is encouraged for full scholarship consideration; the standard deadline is April 1. Michigan residents with a 3.0+ GPA are guaranteed admission under the Michigan Assured Admissions Pact, a statewide policy that makes admissibility predictable. The absence of supplemental materials means transcript quality and course rigor are the primary factors in every admission decision.
Apply by December 1 to Maximize Scholarship Consideration - Aid Is First-Come, First-Served
While UM-Dearborn's application window runs through April 1, the most competitive scholarship consideration for fall enrollment is awarded on a rolling basis beginning with December 1 applicants. UM-Dearborn holds the distinction of having the lowest annual average cost among all 15 public universities in Michigan (per the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard), and 82% of first-year students receive need-based financial aid - with an average net price for federal loan recipients of $12,102. A student who applies in March may still be admitted but will be competing for a depleted merit pool. The correct sequence is apply by December 1, complete the FAFSA immediately, and request any merit scholarship review as part of the initial file review rather than as a later amendment.
Use the Henry Ford Estate Campus History and Industry Partnerships as a Specific Application Frame
UM-Dearborn was founded in 1959 on 202 acres of the former estate of Henry Ford, established with a direct gift of land and $6.5 million from the Ford Motor Company to address an acute shortage of college-educated engineers and business administrators in the Detroit auto industry. The campus still sits adjacent to Fair Lane, Henry Ford's historic mansion, and borders Henry Ford College across Evergreen Road. The Ford Motor Company connection is not historical background - it is a living industry relationship. 94% of UM-Dearborn students are Michigan residents, over 95% of employed graduates work in Michigan, and the university's curriculum has been explicitly reoriented around practice-based learning in collaboration with Metro Detroit industry partners. Engineering, business, and computer science applicants who can articulate a connection between their goals and the Metro Detroit industry ecosystem - automotive, mobility, electrification, defense, logistics - are making the most relevant possible argument for choosing UM-Dearborn over other Michigan public universities.
The Learn4ward Program Makes UM-Dearborn a Guaranteed Transfer Destination From Henry Ford College
UM-Dearborn and Henry Ford College (HFC), whose campuses share Evergreen Road, operate a dedicated transfer partnership called Learn4ward that provides guaranteed admission to UM-Dearborn upon completion of program requirements at HFC, plus articulation agreements for specific academic programs ensuring detailed, credit-matched graduation pathways. Students who start at HFC with the intention of transferring to UM-Dearborn should identify the Learn4ward pathway explicitly at the time of HFC enrollment - the program provides a structured plan to earn both an associate degree and a bachelor's degree within 4?6 years with full credit portability. For Michigan students who face financial constraints in year one, Learn4ward is one of the most functionally useful transfer pathways in the state and should be counseled proactively, not discovered retroactively.
Expert Insight:
UM-Dearborn's four-year graduation rate is approximately 33% - notably lower than its six-year rate of 60% - because it enrolls a predominantly non-traditional, commuter student population: 44% of students are first-generation college students, many students work full-time while enrolled, and the institution explicitly serves returning adults, veterans, and parents through its SOAR Program. A student or family comparing UM-Dearborn's four-year graduation rate to a residential university without understanding this demographic context is making a structurally flawed comparison. The 60% six-year graduation rate is the more relevant data point, and it reflects sustained institutional investment in student success support - not a weak academic environment. Counselors who use the four-year rate without this context are misrepresenting the institution to families for whom UM-Dearborn would otherwise be an excellent fit.
UM-Dearborn Profile
Full Name
University of Michigan-Dearborn (UM-Dearborn)
City
Dearborn
State
Michigan
ZIP Code
48128-1491
Type
Public
Campus
Main Campus
Official Website
Accredited By
Higher Learning Commission (NCACHE)
Is a UM-Dearborn Degree Worth It?
Getting into UM-Dearborn can be a great opportunity for many students. It is a prestigious institution known for its strong programs. However, whether it is worth it depends on your personal and academic goals, as well as your financial situation. UM-Dearborn offers a rigorous academic environment and access to cutting-edge research, but it may not be the best fit for everyone. It's important to consider factors such as cost, location, and specific academic programs when making this decision.
Please note that the average household income of the admitted students at UM-Dearborn is $67,600 and the graduate unemployment rate is 3.49%.
How much does a degree from UM-Dearborn Cost?
The average annual cost of the degree at University of Michigan-Dearborn is $22,435. As most of the students receive Pell Grants and Federal Grants the average annual net price a student has to pay at University of Michigan-Dearborn is $10,904.
43.9% of the students are receiving Pell Grant and 38.4 percent are receiving Federal Grants. So it is a better choice to go to UM-Dearborn and apply for PELL or federal loan grants.
At University of Michigan-Dearborn, you will have no problem receiving any scholarship from the federal government. Fill in the FAFSA application form at the earliest and enlist UM-Dearborn as your choice in the form.
How much does a UM-Dearborn Graduate earn?
The average annual salary of the graduate after 4–6 years of graduation is $59,649. An average UM-Dearborn graduate makes this much after 10 years of enrollment (4–6 years after graduation).
The average annual income of a graduate in the United States is $40,595.
Compare Similar Colleges
Less Competitive Schools
These schools have lower average SAT or ACT scores than University of Michigan-Dearborn. If your SAT or ACT score is slightly lower, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Auburn University at Montgomery | Montgomery, AL | 1090 | 21 |
| Spring Hill College | Mobile, AL | 1090 | 22 |
| Troy University | Troy, AL | 1086 | 22 |
| Grand Canyon University | Phoenix, AZ | 1095 | 22 |
| University of Central Arkansas | Conway, AR | 1117 | 22 |
| University of the Ozarks | Clarksville, AR | 1088 | 21 |
| University of La Verne | La Verne, CA | 1116 | 22 |
| Pacific Union College | Angwin, CA | 1093 | 22 |
| Fort Lewis College | Durango, CO | 1084 | 20 |
| University of Northern Colorado | Greeley, CO | 1077 | 22 |
Equally Competitive Schools
These schools have the same range of average SAT or ACT scores as University of Michigan-Dearborn. If your SAT or ACT score is competitive, you'll be competitive for these schools also.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of South Alabama | Mobile, AL | 1119 | 23 |
| Tuskegee University | Tuskegee, AL | 1121 | 22 |
| Arkansas State University | Jonesboro, AR | 1119 | 22 |
| University of Central Arkansas | Conway, AR | 1117 | 22 |
| University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus | Denver, CO | 1119 | 24 |
More Competitive Schools
These schools have higher average SAT or ACT scores than University of Michigan-Dearborn. If you improve your SAT or ACT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Birmingham-Southern College | Birmingham, AL | 1197 | 24 |
| Samford University | Birmingham, AL | 1203 | 26 |
| University of Arkansas | Fayetteville, AR | 1174 | 25 |
| Harding University | Searcy, AR | 1187 | 25 |
| Dominican University of California | San Rafael, CA | 1194 | 26 |
Degree Programs at UM-Dearborn
Bachelor Degree Programs
Full list of all degree programs offered by University of Michigan-Dearborn →
Frequently Asked Questions About UM-Dearborn Admissions
Graduates of this university typically earn a moderate salary, $59,649 annually, with some fluctuation based on the field.
The tuition fee at this university is relatively low, around $22,435 per year, making it more affordable for many students.
43.9% of students receive a Pell Grant at this institution. Your chances of need-based aid are moderate and depend primarily on your household income. Filing FAFSA early significantly improves your chances of receiving the maximum available grant amount.
The acceptance rate of University of Michigan-Dearborn is 58.6% which is relatively high, above 20%, making it somewhat easier to gain admission compared to other top-tier universities.
The average GPA of admitted students is 3.66. This reflects the competitive academic profile expected from applicants.
While there is no single cutoff that guarantees a rejection, admission staff uses your GPA to determine if you are a best fit. If you have at least a 3.36, you are in the standard pool. If you are below a 3.36, we need to focus on your personal essay and letters of recommendation to explain the context behind your grades.
If your GPA is 3.26 or less, it may make admission difficult. However, your chances may improve if you have strong test scores, extracurricular activities, and essays. But this does not mean that you must not apply, or you do not have any chances. With additional AP courses, you can increase your chances even with this GPA.
While the average GPA of admitted students is 3.66, applicants with lower GPAs can still be considered if they have strong test scores, extracurriculars, and compelling personal essays that demonstrate resilience and potential.
Admission to University of Michigan-Dearborn is based on SAT, and a strong SAT score is essential. Aim for scores above 1127 for the best chances, although the overall application strength also matters. Your SAT must be in the range of 990–1260.
Yes, many students successfully transfer each year. Be prepared with your academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and a solid personal statement to make your application competitive.
To improve your chances, focus on excelling academically, building a strong extracurricular profile, and submitting standout essays. High SAT/ACT scores are also crucial for competitive admissions.