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Central Michigan University

Mount Pleasant, Michigan · Public

Ranked #259 US News
$16k/yearCost after aid

FindU Grade

A-Value
N/ACampus
BAcademics
C-Admissions
A-Student Life
B+Overall

About

Central Michigan University is located in Mount Pleasant, Michigan. It is a public institution. The university enrolls approximately 9,916 students.

cmich.edu

Cost and aid

True cost

$16kper year

Compared to $17k national average

Cost breakdown

In-state tuition$14,190
Out-of-state tuition$14,190
Room & board$12,178
Avg aid package$10,429
Students receiving aid31%
Pell grant recipients31%

Central Michigan University offers a competitive cost of attendance with in-state and out-of-state tuition rates at $14,970. A significant 97% of students receive financial aid, with an average total aid award of $10,638. CMU is also designated as an 'Opportunity College' by Carnegie, indicating higher access to education and higher earning for alumni.

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Admissions

Test scores

SAT · middle 50%960–1210
4001600
ACT · middle 50%21–27
136

Application info

Acceptance rate91%
Average GPA3.51
Student–faculty ratio16:1
Test optionalYes
Common AppYes
Application fee$40

CMU is considered 'selective' with an acceptance rate of 77.1%. The university considers SAT/ACT scores but they are not required. CMU looks for students who demonstrate leadership, community engagement, critical thinking, creativity, passion, and dedication.

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Academics

Graduation rate62%
Retention rate74%
Student–faculty ratio16:1
Full-time faculty77%

Central Michigan University fosters a hands-on learning environment with approachable professors invested in student success. The university is known for its strong programs in media, broadcast journalism, nursing, education, and sport management. CMU is also recognized as a Carnegie R2 research institution, indicating a high level of research activity in a smaller university setting.

Outcomes

Median earnings (10 yrs)$55,874
Avg starting salary$55,874
Job placement rate95%
Earn more than HS grad76%
Economic mobility103%
Loan default (3 yr)5%
Loan repayment (3 yr)56%

CMU emphasizes career readiness, highlighted by the Central Career Guarantee program, promising a job offer or graduate school acceptance within six months of graduation. The university boasts a 95% employment rate for graduates from the College of Health Professions within six months of graduation. CMU is also ranked among the top universities for alumni earnings, particularly for female graduates under 40 in the Midwest.

Student life

Demographics

Medium School
9,916Student size

Compared to 5,382 national average

More femaleGender ratio
Female 61%Male 39%
76% WhiteRacial diversity
White 76%Black 8%Hispanic 5%Asian 1%Other 8%
Greek lifeYes
Campus housingYes

Campus life

CMU students come from all corners of the state and beyond, and “up north” means something different to all of them! Whe

@cmuniversity

Winning, it’s just what we do. 🔥⬆️ #D1Football #MAC #FireUpChips #FootballSeason

@cmuniversity

There’s plenty to do when you live on campus. Submit your housing app to join in! #CollegeTok #CampusLife #Pickleball

@cmuniversity

+7 moreWatch every campus video. FreeShow me all

CMU offers a vibrant campus life with over 400 student organizations, providing numerous opportunities for involvement and leadership development. The university is praised for its nationally recognized recreation and leadership programs, fostering lifelong friendships and professional connections. Greek life is also a significant part of the campus culture, with approximately 10% of students participating.

Student reviews

Campus and vibes

Freshman

Have applied and been accepted to the university and would start the fall semester in a couple of weeks. The application process and support has been amazing. Looking forward to my next chapter with the university.

Graduate Student

While searching for graduate programs, I ran across Central Michigan University. Once I expressed interest, an admission counselor reached out to me. She was able to guide me through the process and answer any question I had. When my application was completed and I was accepted, I began to hear from the program director. He was very personable and made reassures me of my fears.

About Central Michigan University

The Central Michigan University Police Department works in partnership with the university community to maintain a safe and secure environment. The department is professionally staffed 24-hours a day by certified police officers and dispatchers. The Rave Guardian app is also available to connect students with campus safety resources.

The Honors Program at CMU offers a comprehensive academic experience for bright, talented, and motivated students. Honors students receive a high percentage of research awards and present their scholarly works locally, regionally, and nationally. The program emphasizes critical thought, scholarly inquiry, creative expression, and active citizenship.

CMU welcomes students from over 60 countries and the Office of International Affairs provides support services to help international students transition to life in the United States. Mount Pleasant offers a charming small-town atmosphere with easy access to major cities, making it a welcoming environment for international students.

Endowment$244,760,632
Avg faculty salary$125,868

Central Michigan University FAQ

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Will you get into Central Michigan University?

Central Michigan University admits about 91% of applicants. But your real odds are personal. They depend on your grades, scores, and story. Answer a few quick questions and FindU calculates your match.

76%Your chances
Match
Your SAT 1380Admit range 1230–1480
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