Admission Requirements for Graduate Programs at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

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Admissions requirements for graduate programs at the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor can vary depending on the specific program. However, there are common requirements across many programs. These typically include submitting official academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose that outlines the applicant's goals and motivations. Some programs may also require standardized test scores, such as the GRE or GMAT, while others may have specific prerequisites or additional materials. Each school and college at the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor independently determines unique requirements for every graduate program and sets a distinct timeline for application reviews. The general guidelines and steps related to the admission process are as follows;

  • Creating an ApplyWeb Account: Applicants must create an ApplyWeb account using their legal name to initiate the application.
  • Submitting the Application with resume, and academic statement of purpose: After creating the account on ApplyWeb, complete the application and upload the necessary documents including transcripts, resume, academic statement of purpose, and personal statement.
  • Letters of Recommendation: Most graduate programs at the University of Michigan require letters of recommendation from individuals who can speak to your personal qualities, academic proficiency, and research potential. Applicants can use ApplyWeb to check the status of submitted letters of recommendation.


What are the typical GRE/GMAT/LSAT scores considered for admission to graduate programs at the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor?

Admission requirements for U-M Graduate programs, including the average GRE/GMAT/LSAT scores, vary depending on the program. Generally, a high score on the required standardized test is expected. For instance, the average scores for MBA admissions range from 720-740 (GRE) or 680-740 (GMAT), while for Law programs, it is typically between 165-170 (LSAT). The average GMAT score for the Ross School of Business class of 2025 is 719. Among the accepted applicants, the middle 80% scored between 670 and 760.

Engineering and Computer Science programs often look for scores of 750-800 (GRE) or 720-760 (GMAT). In Education programs, average scores may fall around 650-700 (GRE) or 650-700 (GMAT). Remember that these averages are subject to variation, and it is essential to research specific program requirements and reach out to the admissions office for accurate information on average scores for admitted students.


Do the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor master's programs have options where GRE or GMAT scores are not necessary?

The University of Michigan offers several master’s programs that do not require the GRE or GMAT for admission. These programs include Master of Public Policy (MPP), Master of Social Work (MSW), Master of Early Childhood Education (MAE), Master of Education (MAT), and Master of Higher Education Entrepreneurship (MAEHE). Instead of standardized test scores, admissions committees to these programs consider other factors such as GPA, letters of recommendation, and work experience It should be noted that each program may have requirements others, such as MPP programs that require at least two years of full-time service time work experience in the public sector.


How does a low GPA impact the likelihood of admission to University of Michigan-Ann Arbor Master's programs?

The difficulty of being admitted to a U-M master’s program with a low GPA will vary depending on the program you are applying to. Some programs are more sensitive to GPA than others. For example, the MBA program at U-M is known to be very GPA-sensitive, so it will be more difficult to gain admission with a lower GPA. However, there are other factors that the admissions committee will consider when considering your application, such as your GRE or GMAT scores, letters of recommendation, and work experience. If you have a low GPA but can show that you can succeed in the program, you may still be accepted.


What is the level of difficulty for international students in gaining admission to the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor?

Admission to the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor is competitive for both domestic and international students, as the admission process and criteria are the same. However, international students may encounter specific challenges that require careful consideration when applying to the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor;

  • English Language Proficiency: As English is the primary language of instruction at the University of Michigan, international students must demonstrate their proficiency in English. Most graduate programs at the university are required to submit results from standardized English language tests such as the TOEFL or IELTS.
  • Financial Considerations: International students need to consider the financial requirements of studying at the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor. It is crucial to explore scholarships, financial assistance opportunities, and other funding sources. 


Are interviews a part of the selection process for Master's or joint-degree programs at U-M?

Yes, some U-M Master's or joint-degree programs require an interview as part of the admissions process. The purpose of the interview is to give the admissions committee a chance to get to know you better and assess your suitability for the program.


Lets explore the admission requirements for various graduate programs at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor that do not require GRE scores.

MS in Data Science

Regular admission at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor to MS in Data Science program requires a Bachelor degree in a Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics field earned from an accredited program with an average of B or better. Each applicant is required to present official, complete transcripts of prior college work.

Three letters of recommendation are required for admission.

Genetic Counseling Program Admissions

Genetic Counseling Program Admissions requiremnets are:

1. Undergraduate degree: B.S. or B.A. Most students major in the biological sciences, but this is not required

2. GRE scores for admissions are not required.

Masters in Movement Science and Sport Management Admissions - No GRE

  • Three (3) letters of recommendation in support of the student's application must be submitted. These letters should ordinarily be from professors at the student's last degree-granting institution.
  • One scanned or electronic official transcript uploaded to the online application for all undergraduate and/or graduate programs in which you have received a degree. If you have not yet completed your baccalaureate degree, you may submit a current (in-progress) transcript now and a final transcript showing degree conferral upon graduation.
  • Academic Statement of Purpose which should be a concise, well-written statement about your academic preparation, practical experience, and/or research background related to the area(s) within Kinesiology that you’re interested in studying. It should also include your career goals and how Kinesiology's graduate program will help you meet your career, and educational objectives.
  • A personal statement addressing how your background and life experiences, including cultural, geographical, financial, educational, or other opportunities or challenges, have motivated your decision to pursue a graduate degree at the University of Michigan.
  • The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is required of all non-native speakers. The University of Michigan requires a minimum TOEFL score of 84 for admissions (Internet Based TOEFL), or 6.5 for IELTS
  • GRE is not required.

Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance: GRE not required.

Admission Requirements for Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance:

  • A bachelor’s degree in a Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics field earned from an accredited program with an average of B or better.
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Personal statement
  • Resume
  • Statement of purpose
  • GRE scores are not required.

College of Engineering Computer Science Admission Prerequisites

CECS graduate program admission requirements are:

1.Bachelor's degree from an accredited program with a minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher.

2.GRE not required for CECS graduate program.

3.Applicants whose native language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency.  Proficiency tests that are accepted are the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).

Master of Science in Criminal Justice- No GRE

Admission requirements for Master of Science in Criminology and Criminal at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

1. Completion of a Bachelor's degree with at least a 3.0 undergraduate GPA

2. Completion of the following courses or equivalent:

  • CRJ 200 Introduction to Criminal Justice
  • CRJ 468 Criminology
  • CRJ 416 Criminal Law

Applicants who meet the GPA requirement but lack one or more required courses may be admitted conditionally with the permission of the Program Director. These course deficiencies may be completed concurrently with graduate courses in the program upon the Program Director's approval.

The GRE is not required.