UMich Supplemental Essays 2025-26 – Prompts & Tips
July 10, 2025
In forming the Class of 2028, the University of Michigan received a staggering 98,000 applications, an all-time high. For historical comparison, there were under 24,000 applicants at the turn of the millennium. Therefore, it is safe to say that more students desire to become Wolverines in 2025 than ever before in the school鈥檚 200+ year history. This greatly impacts the importance of the UMich supplemental essays.
In addition, the acceptance rate at UMich has fallen to a record-low 15%. However, this figure is typically twice as high for applicants who reside in the state of Michigan. If you are an out-of-stater or international student, you鈥檒l need to bring even more impressive credentials than your in-state peers.
Want to learn more about how to create a strong application for the University of Michigan? In addition to our blog on How to Get Into the University of Michigan, head to for all our best free tools and resources, including an admissions calculator for 170+ institutions, college planning guides & templates, and example essays from accepted students.聽
Thankfully, the UMich supplemental essay section still affords applicants an opportunity to showcase what makes them uniquely qualified for admission. Below are the University of Michigan supplemental prompts for the 2025-26 admissions cycle. The 国产第一福利影院草草 team also offers tips about how to address each one:
2025-2026 University of Michigan Supplemental Essay Questions
For the first time in years, the University of Michigan has changed one of its prompts. While the previous prompt asked applicants to describe and reflect on a community of choice, the new prompt will now require applicants to discuss their leadership experiences and goals:
Prompt #1:
At the University of Michigan, we are focused on developing leaders and citizens who will challenge the present and enrich the future. In your essay, share with us how you are prepared to contribute to these goals. This could include the people, places, experiences, or aspirations that have shaped your journey and future plans. (100-300 words)
In the first sentence of this supplemental essay prompt, UMich tells you exactly what type of students they are looking for: those who will challenge the present and enrich the future through their leadership and service. To that end, they’re interested to know more about 1) how your past experiences have prepared you for this mission and 2) how your future goals align with this mission.
First, you’ll want to brainstorm how you already have “challenged the present and enriched the future.” Basically, how have you made a difference thus far?While student body presidents and nonprofit founders will likely have plenty of material at their disposal, think beyond the title that you may (or may not) have held and more about the action(s) of which you are most proud. Did you work to change a certain school policy? Help organize a local playground clean-up? Mentor others on your debate team? Overcome a significant personal obstacle? Make a list of examples.
Then, choose an example (or several) that resonates most, and think about how it has inspired you to continue making a difference. How has it influenced or informed your future goals and aspirations?
Finally, the key to an excellent answer is to show聽rather than聽tell the University of Michigan how you will contribute to their mission. Keep in mind the Latin quote 鈥淔acta, non verba,鈥� which translates to 鈥淒eeds, not words.鈥�
Prompt #2:
Describe the unique qualities that attract you to the specific undergraduate College or School (including preferred admission and dual degree programs) to which you are applying at the University of Michigan. How would that curriculum support your interests? (100-550 words)
In some ways, this is your quintessential 鈥淲hy Us?鈥� supplemental essay, but UMich is particularly interested in hearing about why the curriculum in your desired academic department is attractive to you鈥攏ot so much about your love for the football team or the beautiful campus. Below are some quick tips for writing an essay that will help your admissions cause:
- Cite specific academic programs, professors, , internship/externship programs, , , etc.
- State why your chosen program is the perfect fit for you and why you are the perfect fit for it.
- Show evidence of how your past/current academic endeavors/achievements will carry over onto UMich鈥檚 campus.
- What special academically related talents and passions will you bring to the University of Michigan? What contributions will you make?
You鈥檒l want to dedicate time to researching more about your prospective college/department and what makes it truly world-class. The more specific you can get here, the better your UMich supplemental essays will be!
How important are the essays to the admissions committee?
Michigan deems two factors as 鈥渧ery important鈥� in evaluating a candidate. These are the rigor of your secondary school record and GPA. The UMich essays鈥攂oth the general Common App essay and the Michigan supplements鈥攁re rated as 鈥渋mportant.鈥� They sit alongside standardized test scores, recommendations, character/personal qualities, and first-generation college student status.
UMich Supplemental Essays – Want Personalized Essay Assistance?
If you are interested in working with one of 国产第一福利影院草草鈥� experienced and knowledgeable essay coaches as you craft your University of Michigan supplemental essays, we encourage you to get a quote today.
Looking for additional writing resources? Consider checking out the following:
- Common App Essay Prompts
- 10 Instructive Common App Essay Examples
- College Application Essay Topics to Avoid
- How to Quickly Format Your Common App Essay
- Should I Complete Optional College Essays?
- How to Brainstorm a College Essay
- 25 Inspiring College Essay Topics
- 鈥淲hy This College?鈥� Essay Examples
- How to Write the Community Essay
