College Comparison
Columbia University vs University of Michigan: Which is Better?
Side-by-side comparison of acceptance rates, SAT scores, tuition, earnings, and more, updated with the latest College Scorecard data.
School
Columbia University
New York, NY
School
University of Michigan
Ann Arbor, MI
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Columbia | University of Michigan |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 4.2%wins | 17.9% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1490–1570wins | 1350–1530 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 34–35wins | 31–34 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $69,045 | $58,072wins |
| Avg Net Price | $20,148 | $14,832wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $102,491wins | $83,648 |
| Graduation Rate | 95.0%wins | 93.2% |
| Retention Rate | 97.2% | 97.6%wins |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 6:1wins | 11:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 8,899 | 33,488wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Columbia edges out University of Michigan on 6 of 10 measurable categories, including key factors like acceptance rate, earnings, and graduation rate. That said, the right choice depends heavily on your major, financial situation, and campus culture fit.
Columbia Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 4.2%
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1490–1570
- ✓ACT Range (25th–75th): 34–35
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $102,491
University of Michigan Strengths
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $58,072
- ✓Avg Net Price: $14,832
- ✓Retention Rate: 97.6%
- ✓Total Enrollment: 33,488
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