Transferring to U of M

Hello! I'm a high school junior and I'm already thinking about college. I might be considering transferring to the University of Michigan in the future. What's the transfer admission process like, and what should I focus on during my first year in order to be a competitive applicant?

Hello! It's smart to plan ahead and consider your options for transferring. The University of Michigan transfer admission process is pretty straightforward. Here's an overview of the process and some tips on what to focus on during your freshman year to become a competitive applicant.

Application Components:

1. Fill out the Transfer Application on the Common Application.

2. Submit your high school transcript.

3. Submit all official college transcripts, as well as any AP or IB scores.

4. Submit an official standardized test score (optional, but recommended). U of M accepts both SAT and ACT scores.

5. Letters of recommendation are optional, unless they are required by your specific major or programs.

6. Write a personal essay and respond to the U of M supplemental essay prompts.

To be a competitive applicant, focus on the following:

1. Maintain a strong GPA: While there's no stated minimum GPA for transfer applicants, competitive applicants generally have GPAs of 3.0 or higher. Aim for a higher GPA to increase your chances.

2. Pursue a challenging course load: Make sure to take a rigorous course load during your first year in college, as U of M will consider the difficulty of the classes you've taken and how well you've performed in them.

3. Extracurricular involvement: Participation in extracurricular activities is important to show your commitment, leadership skills, and ability to balance academic and non-academic interests.

4. Establish relationships with instructors: This is not only helpful for your academic success but also for when you need to request a letter of recommendation. Aim to have at least one professor who knows your strengths, work ethic, and aspirations.

5. Work on your essays: Spend a considerable amount of time crafting your personal essay and U of M supplemental essays. They should demonstrate your personality, experiences, and writing skills, as well as convey why you're interested in transferring to U of M specifically.

Transferring to the University of Michigan can be competitive, so focusing on these areas during your first year will maximize your chances of admission. Good luck with your college journey!