Unveiling the Top University License Plates in Michigan: A 2025 Snapshot
In the heart of Michigan, a unique form of school spirit is on display - university license plates. With over 122,500 of these plates on the road, drivers are not just showing their pride but also contributing to their alma maters. But which universities top this list? Let's dive in and explore the rankings, and uncover some interesting facts along the way.
The numbers, as revealed by Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson's office, paint a clear picture. Michigan State University and the University of Michigan, the state's largest universities, unsurprisingly lead the pack. But here's where it gets intriguing: Central Michigan University, despite having the seventh-highest enrollment, takes the third spot. This raises an interesting question: Does enrollment directly correlate with license plate popularity?
Let's take a closer look at the table provided by the Secretary of State's office, which details the number of university fundraising plates issued in 2025:
University Fundraising Plates Issued in 2025
| University | Plates Issued |
| --- | --- |
| Michigan State University | 56,413 |
| University of Michigan | 28,194 |
| Central Michigan University | 7,450 |
| Western Michigan University | 5,919 |
| Michigan Tech University | 4,418 |
| Ferris State University | 3,916 |
| Grand Valley State University | 3,495 |
| Wayne State University | 2,527 |
| Oakland University | 2,166 |
| Eastern Michigan University | 2,128 |
| Saginaw Valley State University | 1,884 |
| Northern Michigan University | 1,742 |
| Lake Superior State University | 1,142 |
| University of Michigan - Dearborn | 656 |
| University of Michigan - Flint | 536 |
| Total | 122,586 |
And this is the part most people miss: for each $35 plate sold, $25 goes directly to the university. So, these plates are not just a fashion statement but a significant source of funding for Michigan's universities.
So, what do you think? Are these rankings a true reflection of university pride, or are there other factors at play? Feel free to share your thoughts and insights in the comments below. Remember, this is a friendly discussion, so let's keep it respectful and open-minded!
