Prompt database · 2026-27 cycle
University of Michigan
Deadlines
source| Early Action | November 1, 2026 |
|---|---|
| Early Decision | November 1, 2026 |
| Regular Decision | February 1, 2027 |
Essay prompts (2)
- identityFirst-year applicants (required for all)2026-27300 words
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.
This is the 2025-26 wording, carried over: University of Michigan has not republished this prompt for 2026-27 yet. Schools usually post updates around the Common App opening on August 1; we re-check after that and change this text only against an official source.
- why usFirst-year applicants (required for all)2026-27550 words
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?
This is the 2025-26 wording, carried over: University of Michigan has not republished this prompt for 2026-27 yet. Schools usually post updates around the Common App opening on August 1; we re-check after that and change this text only against an official source.
The school's published AI policy
Your essays should tell your story, in your words. AI tools can be helpful when used thoughtfully, such as for brainstorming, outlining, proofreading, or organizing information. We recognize these tools may be especially useful for applicants who have limited access to application guidance. However, your application should reflect your own ideas, experiences, and authentic voice. Do not copy and paste AI-generated text or submit work that does not represent you.
the school’s published policyChecked Sep 8, 2026
Our reading
Michigan affirmatively permits AI tools for brainstorming, outlining, proofreading and organizing information — noting they may be especially useful for applicants with limited access to application guidance — but requires the application to reflect the applicant's own ideas and authentic voice and forbids pasting AI-generated text.
How reviews use this page
When you request a review for a University of Michigan supplement, the feedback is grounded in exactly what you see here: the prompt itself, its word limit, and what the school publishes about its values and programs. That's the whole claim — calibrated to the prompt and the school's own published guidance, scored against a consistent rubric. Not insider knowledge, and never a rewrite: Second Read is a coach, not a ghostwriter. It flags weaknesses and tells you what to fix and why; it never writes a sentence of your essay.
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