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College Comparison

University of Michigan vs UC Irvine: Which is Better?

Side-by-side comparison of acceptance rates, SAT scores, tuition, earnings, and more, updated with the latest College Scorecard data.

School

University of Michigan

Ann Arbor, MI

School

UC Irvine

Irvine, CA

Head-to-Head Stats

MetricUniversity of MichiganUC Irvine
Acceptance Rate17.9%wins25.6%
SAT Range (25th–75th)1350–1530winsN/A
ACT Range (25th–75th)31–34N/A
Tuition (Out-of-State)$58,072$45,014wins
Avg Net Price$14,832$12,840wins
Median Earnings (10 yr)$83,648wins$80,735
Graduation Rate93.2%wins86.0%
Retention Rate97.6%wins93.8%
Student–Faculty Ratio11:1wins18:1
Total Enrollment33,488wins29,494

Verdict

Based on the data above, University of Michigan edges out UC Irvine on 7 of 9 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.

University of Michigan Strengths

  • Acceptance Rate: 17.9%
  • SAT Range (25th–75th): 1350–1530
  • Median Earnings (10 yr): $83,648
  • Graduation Rate: 93.2%

UC Irvine Strengths

  • Tuition (Out-of-State): $45,014
  • Avg Net Price: $12,840

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