University of Michigan - Ann Arbor vs University of Michigan - Flint

University of Michigan - Ann Arbor vs University of Michigan - Flint

Subject Strength & Global Rankings (2025/2026)

Both institutions belong to the University of Michigan system. Ann Arbor is ranked very highly internationally; Flint is not included in international ranking tables similarly. UMich Ann Arbor is very strong in virtually all of the major research fields such as Engineering, Biomedical Sciences, Social Sciences, Business, and Computer Science. UMich Flint has more emphasis on education, health professions, social sciences, and local/regional service programs with minimal international recognition.

General Information

Ann Arbor, the original 1817 establishment, is the flagship with a large student population of around 52,065 providing 280+ degree programs in a research-active, well-equipped setting. Flint, set up subsequently, is smaller with a student population of around 6,130, providing fewer programs, more emphasis on accessibility, community outreach, and services to non-traditional students.

Acceptance Rate & Admissions

UMich Ann Arbor admissions are extremely competitive (~ 17.9%) relative to Flint's (~ 68.8%). Ann Arbor students typically have much more impressive academic statistics (higher test score ranges, higher high school attainment) than those admitted to Flint. Both campuses apply the same admission standards (transcripts, etc.), but Flint admissions are more open and regionally targeted.

Research Impact & Facilities

Ann Arbor is R1, with extremely high research activity, substantial funding, first-rate labs and facilities, international collaborations, and robust graduate and professional schools. Flint doesn't come close to that level; its research is applied/local instead, with lower funding, fewer major research facilities, but has robust undergraduate research opportunities.

Cost & Financial Aid

Tuition and net price are quite different. Ann Arbor's net price (after grants/scholarships) is greater, the out-of-state cost is much greater, but also better financial aid and scholarships exist. Flint's price is much cheaper; far more students are awarded grants; net price and tuition are much more economical.

Career Outcomes & Alumni Success

UMich Ann Arbor has extremely high graduation rates (~ 93-94%) and excellent career outcomes, with median salaries in the $80,000+ range a few years after graduation. UMich Flint's graduation rate is significantly lower (~ 35%) with much lower median incomes compared to Ann Arbor. On the other hand, Flint provides good value for regional students, excellent outcomes in healthcare and service fields, and focuses on local impact.