University of Southern Maine
USM applicants come from across the country and around the world. We consider academically qualified students without regard to race, color, sex, creed, national origin, gender, handicap, sexual orientation, or age. Admission to the University is based primarily on the applicant's academic background, the rigor of the high school program, and the grades achieved. In addition, the University considers SAT or ACT scores, the personal statement (essay), recommendations, individual talents, and activities. In evaluating transfer students, emphasis is placed on the most recent academic record. For further information, contact the Office of Undergraduate Admission.
Although interviews are not required, you are welcome to schedule a meeting with an admission counselor or a student interviewer at any time to discuss academic programs and admission requirements. Transfer students are encouraged to bring their college transcripts for a preliminary evaluation. Applicants to the School of Music are also required to complete an audition.
While secondary school preparation may vary, the following subjects are generally required for regular admission to the University.
| English | 4 units |
| Mathematics | 3 units, algebra I, geometry, and algebra II or equivalents |
| Science | 2 units with a laboratory component |
| Social Science | 2 units |
| College of Arts and Sciences | |
| Foreign Language | 2 units of one language or ASL (American Sign Language) |
| School of Business | |
| Mathematics | 4 units of mathematics. The fourth must be a college preparatory course exceeding algebra II |
| Women's Studies Program | |
| Foreign Language | 2 units of one language or ASL (American Sign Language) |
| College of Arts and Sciences | |
| French | 3 units of French |
| Mathematics | 4 units of mathematics. The fourth must be a college preparatory course exceeding algebra II |
| Music | successful completion of a departmentally administered audition |
| Sciences | 3 units of natural/physical science with a lab |
| College of Nursing and Health Professions | |
| Athletic Training | biology and chemistry |
| Exercise Physiology | biology and chemistry |
| Health Fitness | biology and chemistry |
| Nursing | biology and chemistry |
| Radiation Therapy | for transfers with appropriate associate's degree |
| School of Applied Science, Engineering, and Technology | |
| Computer Science | 4 units of mathematics. The fourth must be a college preparatory course exceeding algebra II |
| Engineering (all programs) |
chemistry, physics, and 4 units of mathematics–recommended that the 4th be trigonometry |
| Environmental Planning and Policy | 3 units of natural science with a lab component |
| Environmental Safety and Health | 3 units of natural science with a lab component |
| Environmental Science | 3 units of natural science with a lab component |
(Requirements for specific majors also apply)
| Accounting, Finance | Transfer GPA of 2.33 |
| General Managment and Marketing | Transfer GPA of 2.33 |
| Health Fitness | Transfer GPA of 2.25 |
| Athletic Training and Exercise Physiology | Transfer GPA of 2.50 |
| Computer Science | Transfer GPA of 2.25 |
| Engineering majors | Transfer GPA of 2.25 |
| Nursing | See B.S. in Nursing |
| Teaching | Transfer GPA of 2.75 |
The University of Southern Maine recognizes the International Baccalaureate program, and may grant placement and credit toward graduation for superior performance. Please contact the Prior Learning Assessment Office for additional information at (207) 780-4663, or toll-free (800) 800-4876, ext 4663.
USM requires official SAT or ACT test results. SAT and ACT scores are waived for individuals whose high school graduation date was three or more years ago and/or for those with 30 or more earned college credits from a regionally accredited institution.
Not all high schools report official scores on the transcript, so please check with your counselor. If you did not previously request your scores be sent to USM (#3691) from ETS or ACT, you may do so by calling ETS at (609) 771-7600 or ACT at (319) 337-1313.
International and non-native English speaking students should submit their TOEFL scores. SAT or ACT scores may be submitted to us as reported on the official high school transcript or directly from the Educational Testing Service (ETS) or the American College Testing Program (ACT).
