What are my chances?

kmcmom13
Tue, 13 Nov 2012 11:42:01 +0000

Your unweighted GPA and your class rank in the top 10% are your two strongest features in terms of UMich criteria. Your SAT is a wee bit low (lower than the mid 50th percentile) so it would be worth boosting that up a titch if you are able.
Your ECs/Sports & leadership show a nice balance.

I like your chances if your high school has a good track record with Michigan.

If your school uses naviance, ask your guidance counselor what % of student in the top 10% applied, were accepted to Umich (and how many matriculated). That will help you get a more solid feel.

You might also end up getting sufficient aid to be able to attend – but if you’re out of state, please still make sure you have a couple of other financial safeties lined up. As a state-funded school, Michigan doesn’t always or even often fully fund need from OOS students. Now and then, though, they do, so you never know. It’s just not especially predictable, but the combination of first-generation college student, single parent, and low income is about the “best” combo to have in terms of need-based funding at UMich. If you’ve ever been involved in an urban TRIO education initiative, you may also find there are scholarship funds available in this regard (eg. Michigan Experience).

(Don’t get me wrong – I realize using the word “best” when talking about low income status sounds a little weird…not trying to be insensitive – it’s just that funding is going to be your biggest roadblock so you need to assess these things and make sure you have good coverage and options.)