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College Comparison

University of Michigan vs WashU (St. Louis): 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

WashU (St. Louis)

St. Louis, MO

Head-to-Head Stats

MetricUniversity of MichiganWashU
Acceptance Rate17.9%12.0%wins
SAT Range (25th–75th)1350–15301500–1570wins
ACT Range (25th–75th)31–3433–35wins
Tuition (Out-of-State)$58,072wins$62,982
Avg Net Price$14,832wins$22,117
Median Earnings (10 yr)$83,648$86,182wins
Graduation Rate93.2%94.5%wins
Retention Rate97.6%wins95.9%
Student–Faculty Ratio11:17:1wins
Total Enrollment33,488wins7,897

Verdict

Based on the data above, WashU 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.

University of Michigan Strengths

  • Tuition (Out-of-State): $58,072
  • Avg Net Price: $14,832
  • Retention Rate: 97.6%
  • Total Enrollment: 33,488

WashU Strengths

  • Acceptance Rate: 12.0%
  • SAT Range (25th–75th): 1500–1570
  • ACT Range (25th–75th): 33–35
  • Median Earnings (10 yr): $86,182

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