Be A Terp
Ready to learn more about what it takes to #BeATerp?
You're in the right place! We are here to help guide you through the University of Maryland (UMD) application and admission process.
Getting started:
Get started on the right track, right from the beginning. Use the information on this page to understand exactly what you need to begin your journey to UMD.
Next:
Use the sections below to dive deeper into what you need to do to apply to UMD. If you feel that none of the applicant categories below accurately describe your circumstances, take a look at the different special audience applicant types we also consider.
We use a 26-point holistic review process, guided by the mission of identifying applicants, who as individuals and as a group, will enrich and benefit from the campus learning envrionment and the entire student body.
At this time, freshman students can apply using either Common App or StandOut Admissions Network. Tranfer students must use the StandOut Admissions Network platform. Applications will not be reviewed differently based on the platform used.
On the application, students can identify their preferred major(s). Some UMD majors fall into the category of Limited Enrollment Programs (LEP); majors with limited space and more competitive admission criteria. Regardless of the major a studen prefers, we review all applications major blind. Applicants will be reviewed for admissibility to the university and then, if needed, for admission to their major of choice.
Application deadlines differe based on the type of applicant and the semester for which they are applying. Early action deadline applicants will be given priority consideration for admission and some merit-based scholarships. Freshman early action applicants will also be considered for UMD's special programs.
Freshman applicants are high school students and students with fewer than 12 semester hours or 18 quarter hours of university-level credit beyond secondary school.
It is never too early to start preparing for college. As you progress through your high school career, look for opportunities to demonstrate leadership skills, expand upon your non-academic interests and/or to get involved in your community. These are the types of things, along with a distinctive essay, that will help you stand out to our Admission Committee.
Transfer applicants are high school graduates who, at the time of applying, have completed at least 12 semester hours or 18 quarter hours at a regionally accredited college or university.
As a transfer student, we strongly encourage you to take advantage of our transfer student resources which include academic planning, major and career exploration, and estimating when you’ll graduate from UMD.
International applicants are students, both freshman and transfer, who are non-U.S. citizens or non-permanent U.S. residents.
In addition to the freshman or transfer applicant requirements, international students must also satisfy international specific requirements such as English language proficiency and non-U.S. academic credential evaluations.
UMD at Shady Grove applicants are students with approximately 60 transferable university-level credits who are interested in earning a UMD degree at the Shady Grove location.
UMD students studying at our Shady Grove location still have all of the benefits of being a Terp while enjoying a smaller campus environment.
Student supporters are counselors, advisors and family members assisting their students through the college application process.
You have your students back, and we have yours. Our Resources and Support section is designed with you in mind and we also encourage you to review the information provided above that is applicable to your student(s).