University of Virginia vs University of Michigan

University of Virginia vs University of Michigan

Subject Strength & Global Rankings (2025/2026)

Both the University of Michigan (UMich) and the University of Virginia (UVA) are world-class public research universities based in the United States, with Michigan more consistently ranked higher across international systems. In QS World University Rankings 2026, Michigan stands around 45th, while Virginia is ranked nearer to 275th. Based on Times Higher Education, Michigan stands at around 22nd, and UVA around 163rd, illustrating Michigan's more extensive global standing.

In subject areas, Michigan tops Engineering, Medicine, Data Science, and Business, with top 20 rankings in many fields. Virginia stands out in Law (#4), Public Policy, Humanities, and Social Sciences, with strong showings in Environmental Studies and Education. Michigan's size and research intensity provide it with a competitive advantage in STEM and professional programs, while UVA has strengths in liberal arts and leadership-oriented programs.

General Information

The University of Michigan, founded in 1817, is located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, a vibrant college town. It has a large student population of approximately 52,065, including 33,730 undergraduates3. The University of Virginia, established in 1819, is based in Charlottesville, Virginia, with a total enrollment of about 25,924, including 17,618 undergraduates.

Michigan provides a large, research-oriented campus with 19 schools and colleges. UVA offers a smaller, more traditional setting with an emphasis on undergraduate education and Jeffersonian academic values.

Acceptance Rate & Admissions

Admissions at both universities are highly competitive. UVA’s acceptance rate is around 17%, while Michigan’s is slightly higher at 18%. UVA students typically present SAT scores between 1410–1530 and ACT scores of 32–34, while Michigan’s admitted students average 1350–1530 SAT and 31–34 ACT.

Both institutions are test-optional and practice holistic review. Michigan draws a more diverse pool of applicants across disciplines, whereas UVA is selective in humanities, law, and public service-oriented programs.

Research Impact & Facilities

Michigan's research infrastructure is extensive with more than $1.7 billion of research expenditures each year, and with world-class facilities in medicine, engineering, public health, and the social sciences. It is home to the Michigan Innovation Center, Ross School of Business, and one of North America's largest academic libraries.

UVA's research environment is comprised of the Darden School of Business, School of Law, and institutes such as the Institute for Advanced Studies in Culture. Although smaller in size, UVA's research is intensely concentrated, especially in law, education, and humanities, with robust interdisciplinary programs and leadership in sustainability.

Cost & Financial Aid

Both of these universities are public and provide financial aid, although UVA is slightly more generous. Michigan's in-state tuition is approximately $16,896, and out-of-state tuition is $57,740. UVA in-state tuition is $17,490, and out-of-state tuition is $53,836.

UVA has a smaller average net price ($17,831) than Michigan ($19,005), and awards more average grants ($29,675 vs. $22,005). UVA covers 100% of demonstrated need compared to 71% covered by Michigan, which makes UVA more affordable for eligible students.

Career Outcomes & Alumni Success

UVA alumni have a median salary of $77,200 ten years after graduation compared to approximately $74,400 for Michigan alumni. UVA alumni are well-represented in law, government, media, and consulting with strong connections to Washington D.C. as well as in leadership positions in public service.

Michigan's alumni network is among the largest and most powerful in the world, with broad representation in tech, business, medicine, and engineering. Companies like Amazon, Google, Ford, and Goldman Sachs actively seek out Michigan graduates with the help of comprehensive career services and worldwide exposure.