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College Comparison

Stanford 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

Stanford University

Stanford, CA

School

University of Michigan

Ann Arbor, MI

Head-to-Head Stats

MetricStanfordUniversity of Michigan
Acceptance Rate3.9%wins17.9%
SAT Range (25th–75th)1510–1580wins1350–1530
ACT Range (25th–75th)34–35wins31–34
Tuition (Out-of-State)$62,484$58,072wins
Avg Net Price$12,136wins$14,832
Median Earnings (10 yr)$124,080wins$83,648
Graduation Rate92.8%93.2%wins
Retention Rate97.8%wins97.6%
Student–Faculty Ratio6:1wins11:1
Total Enrollment7,84133,488wins

Verdict

Based on the data above, Stanford 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.

Stanford Strengths

  • Acceptance Rate: 3.9%
  • SAT Range (25th–75th): 1510–1580
  • ACT Range (25th–75th): 34–35
  • Avg Net Price: $12,136

University of Michigan Strengths

  • Tuition (Out-of-State): $58,072
  • Graduation Rate: 93.2%
  • Total Enrollment: 33,488

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