Side-by-side comparison

Columbia University vs University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

Columbia University and University of Michigan-Ann Arbor are compared below across admissions, cost, rankings, and outcomes. On the metrics both institutions report, Columbia University leads on 8 of 10 comparable fields.

Metric Columbia University University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
Location New York, US Ann Arbor, US
Admission rate 4.0% 18.0%
SAT average 1,530 1,450
QS World rank #38 #45
THE World rank #20 #22
Median earnings (10yr) $110,100 $85,100
Annual cost $83,304 $73,438
Total students 33,413 47,907
Founded 1754 1817
Completion rate 96.0% 92.0%

Frequently asked questions

Is Columbia University harder to get into than University of Michigan-Ann Arbor?

Columbia University has the lower admission rate. Columbia University: 4.0%. University of Michigan-Ann Arbor: 18.0%.

Which is ranked higher — Columbia University or University of Michigan-Ann Arbor?

Columbia University is ranked higher in the QS World University Rankings. Columbia University: #38. University of Michigan-Ann Arbor: #45.

Which is cheaper — Columbia University or University of Michigan-Ann Arbor?

University of Michigan-Ann Arbor has the lower cost of attendance. Columbia University: $83,304. University of Michigan-Ann Arbor: $73,438. Actual cost depends on family income + aid.