The University of Southern Maine believes that a college education should be available to anyone who has the desire and potential for academic achievement. For adults, the admission process places particular emphasis on an autobiographical essay which is part of the application. SAT/ACTs are not required for students who graduated from high school more than three years from the semester in which they plan to matriculate. Previous academic work is considered, as well as life experiences that have relevance to your intended field of study.

If you decide to apply to one of the degree programs offered, you will need to submit a completed application for admission along with the following: application fee, high school transcript or official GED test scores (when applicable) and official transcripts from any colleges attended. You may drop off your application at USM LAC or mail it to the University in an envelope marked "USM Admissions".

Many of our students come to college with other work and professional experiences. In order for students to obtain credit for these experiences, the College offers the following programs through which to demonstrate prior learning:

• College Level Examination Program (CLEP)
• Portfolio Development Process (prior learning credit)
• Challenge Examinations (Nursing)
• Departmental Examinations

Contact Student Services at 753-6500 for more details, or visit the Prior Learning Assessment Page.

Placement tests provide valuable information about your skill level in reading, writing, and mathematics. The results enable you and your advisor to determine which courses are most appropriate for you to take. Placement tests are offered regularly at USM's Lewiston-Auburn College. The tests may be waived if you have previously completed college coursework or if you have earned sufficiently high SAT scores. For more information and for registration information, please click here

USM makes every effort, through financial aid, to bring a college education within reach of every student in need. USM has a strong commitment to adult students and provides need-based financial assistance in the form of grants, loans, and work-study. Our Financial Aid representative Suzanne Frigon will provide comprehensive financial aid counseling and services to USM students on this campus.  She can answer your questions and provide the necessary forms. She may also direct you to other potential sources of financial aid, including available scholarships. For more information, please call 753-6597.

Click here for USM's Financial Aid Homepage

New students are encouraged to register for all classes in person by taking a completed registration card to the business office. Students may also register by phone if paying with a credit card by calling 753-6530. The Business Office offers installment plans to students who wish to spread out their tuition payments. Most courses offered at USM's Lewiston-Auburn College are open to anyone; however certain academic courses are open only to degree students or those who have taken appropriate prerequisite courses. Please be sure to meet with an advisor before registering for any courses.

If you were born after 1956, proof of your immunization must be on record with USM. Copies of your health records can be included with your application or sent separately. You must be in compliance with this Maine Post-Secondary School Immunization Law before you can register for classes. For more information, please call USM's Immunization Hotline at (207) 780-4504.

If you have any questions about becoming a student, or about the University of Southern Maine's Lewiston-Auburn College, please feel free to contact the Student Services office. Their contact information and schedule of office hours is available by clicking here.

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