<p>I know its common knowledge that applying early is helpful. </p>
<p>For borderline applicants like me, however, I heard applying early is actually worse. Early in the year umich wants to fill up its slots first with highly qualified applicants, so only the 3.9+/good test score kids get accepted outright. They tend to defer many kids early in the year. </p>
<p>A professor at uofm, however, asked an adcom about this and explained my stats/grades, etc. and the adcom said that for me I should apply as early as possible. </p>
<p>My app will be complete first week of october. Is this still considered "early?"</p>
<p>Yes. You're OK. Just write a great essay and get it in. Then make sure your first semester grades are as good as they can be and take the tests again, if necessary. Remember that your application isn't complete until everything is in -- including your school report, etc.</p>
<p>First week of October is a very good time, especially for a rolling admissions school like UMich. As Snorky said, your application isn't complete until UMich has your first semester grades, your essays, your teacher and councilor recommendations etc. They will look at your application before they receive your first semester grades, but don't forget to get those in promptly after you receive them. Good Luck! And way to get it in early, that’s awesome!</p>