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College Comparison

Princeton 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

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ

School

University of Michigan

Ann Arbor, MI

Head-to-Head Stats

MetricPrincetonUniversity of Michigan
Acceptance Rate4.5%wins17.9%
SAT Range (25th–75th)1500–1580wins1350–1530
ACT Range (25th–75th)34–35wins31–34
Tuition (Out-of-State)$59,710$58,072wins
Avg Net Price$10,555wins$14,832
Median Earnings (10 yr)$110,066wins$83,648
Graduation Rate97.1%wins93.2%
Retention Rate97.3%97.6%wins
Student–Faculty Ratio5:1wins11:1
Total Enrollment5,57933,488wins

Verdict

Based on the data above, Princeton edges out University of Michigan on 7 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.

Princeton Strengths

  • Acceptance Rate: 4.5%
  • SAT Range (25th–75th): 1500–1580
  • ACT Range (25th–75th): 34–35
  • Avg Net Price: $10,555

University of Michigan Strengths

  • Tuition (Out-of-State): $58,072
  • Retention Rate: 97.6%
  • Total Enrollment: 33,488

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