The University of Michigan-Ann Arbor remains the largest public research institution in the state, boasting a record enrollment of 53,488 students this fall. This marks a 1% increase from 2024, with undergraduate enrollment rising nearly 3% from 34,454 students to 35,358. The surge in UM-Ann Arbor admissions reflects growing interest in the university’s innovative programs and diverse educational opportunities.
“U-M is recognized around the world for providing a life-changing education,” said Adele C. Brumfield, vice provost for enrollment management. “Through innovative partnerships, groundbreaking research, and deep community engagement, we’re expanding educational access and opportunity across Michigan and beyond.”
The incoming undergraduate class includes 9,711 students, comprising 8,178 first-year and 1,533 transfer students, a nearly 10% increase from last year. These students come from all 50 states, Washington, D.C., five U.S. territories, and 62 countries. A significant majority, 67%, are from southeast Michigan, while the west side and mid-Michigan contribute 28% of new first-year students, aligning with state demographics.
With 115,957 applicants, interest in UM-Ann Arbor from first-year students continues to grow. First-year applications rose by 11% to 109,112, while transfer applications remained steady at 6,845. However, graduate and professional student enrollment saw a slight decline to 18,130 from 18,401. The cohort includes 9,515 master’s students, 5,814 Ph.D. students, and 2,562 pursuing professional doctorates. Domestic graduate enrollment increased by 1%, while international enrollment dropped by 7%.
“University of Michigan graduate and professional degree programs have seen strong growth over the past five years,” said Mike Solomon, vice provost for academic affairs – graduate studies and dean of Rackham Graduate School. “The university continues its leadership as a place where students can pursue advanced education and training for careers in a comprehensive range of disciplines and professions.”
A look at the fall 2025 incoming undergraduate class
“As a public institution, we strive to expand the boundaries of learning for everyone,” said Erica Sanders, assistant vice provost of enrollment management and executive director of undergraduate admissions. “Throughout the recruitment process, we encourage students from all backgrounds and all regions of Michigan and around the world to consider what a University of Michigan education will mean for their future, and we let them know that we have programs to support all students so they can fully immerse themselves in the U-M experience.”
Among nearly 10,000 first-year and transfer students, over 1,500 are the first in their family to attend college. Enrollment of students from families earning under $50,000 annually rose to 1,057 from 1,033. The incoming class of 9,711 students includes 4,128 students of color, an 8% increase from last year. The number of Black or African American students increased by 6%, while Hispanic and Latino students saw a nearly 2% rise. Students of color have increased 36% over five years. Despite challenges, international undergraduate enrollment grew 3% to 781 from 755.
U-M’s continued focus on affordability
The university emphasizes accessibility and affordability through robust financial aid programs. More than $1.55 billion in aid is distributed annually, meeting full demonstrated need for in-state students. Preliminary data shows over $617.9 million in financial aid was disbursed to more than 32,800 students this fall. The Go Blue Guarantee, supporting students with incomes under $125,000, aids over 4,900 undergraduates.
“The university is committed to providing generous financial resources to allow more students to choose U-M and thrive once they’re here,” said Tammie L. Durham Luis, assistant vice provost of enrollment management and executive director of financial aid. “We work to ensure that prospective students and families know they are welcome and can succeed at U-M.”
U-M’s final enrollment data is based on data from the Sept. 16 fall census date.
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