Navigating the UMD Undergraduate Portal: A Comprehensive Guide for Prospective Students
The University of Maryland (UMD), the flagship institution of the state of Maryland, stands as a top-ranked public research university and a global leader in research, entrepreneurship, and innovation. UMD offers a diverse and vibrant community where talented Terps thrive. This guide aims to provide prospective undergraduate students with a comprehensive overview of the UMD undergraduate portal and the application process.
Exploring Academic Programs
Whether you have a clear vision of your desired field of study or are still exploring your options, UMD encourages you to delve into its wide array of academic programs. With over 100 majors across 12 colleges and schools, UMD provides a multitude of paths to pursue your academic interests. As you explore, be mindful that some majors are designated as Limited Enrollment Programs (LEPs).
The Application Process
Applying to college can be a daunting task, but UMD strives to make the process as stress-free as possible. The admission review process is thorough, individualized, and holistic, taking into account various aspects of your background and experiences.
Selecting a Preferred Major
On the UMD application, you will be asked to select a preferred major. It's important to note that this selection will not impact your admissibility to the university. While the majority of students are admitted to their preferred major, some LEP applicants may not be.
Application Platforms
The application platform you choose will not affect how your application is reviewed. You can submit the freshman application online via the Common App or ApplyWeb, selecting the platform that best suits your preferences.
Read also: Applying to RPI as an Undergrad
Early Action
UMD strongly encourages you to apply early action to receive priority consideration for admission, merit-based scholarships, and invitations to special programs. The early action deadline is November 1st, and it is non-binding. Students who submit a completed application by this date will receive an admission decision by February 1st.
Required Application Materials
To complete your application, you will need to submit the following materials:
Essay: The essay provides an opportunity to showcase your personality and experiences to the Admission Committee. This is your chance to tell your story and demonstrate what makes you unique.
Activities and Awards List or Resume: Share how you spend your time outside the classroom. Highlight your involvement in extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and any awards or recognition you have received. Please start by sharing the two experiences outside of academics that are most important to you.
Fee Waivers: If you are eligible for a fee waiver, be sure to submit it prior to submitting your application for consideration.
Read also: Undergraduate Portal Navigation at Drexel
Letters of Recommendation: Two letters of recommendation are required: one from your school counselor and one from a teacher. Recommendations must be sent directly from the recommender.
SAT/ACT Scores (Test-Optional): UMD is currently test-optional through the Spring and Fall 2027 application cycles. Students can choose whether or not to submit SAT/ACT scores with their application. As part of the online application, you will be able to indicate your test-optional status.
Additional Requirements for School of Music Applicants
Students seeking enrollment into the School of Music must submit an online application supplement and audition in addition to the above items. To do so, you will need to create a Terps Application Portal (TAP) account.
Understanding the Admission Review Process
UMD's admission review process is holistic, meaning that it takes into account a wide range of factors beyond just academic performance. The Admission Committee looks for students who are smart, scrappy, and determined, who value diversity, innovation, entrepreneurship, and imagination. They seek students who love a challenge, a problem that needs a solution, and a barrier that needs breaking down.
What Makes a Successful Applicant?
Terrapins are smart. Most admitted freshmen earned primarily As and Bs in high school and challenged themselves with honors, Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate and Advanced Level Exams courses.
Read also: Applying to Princeton
Transfer Students
Transfer students are a vital part of the UMD community, bringing unique perspectives from their previous college studies, as well as a diversity of backgrounds, geographic origins, and personal experiences. Successful transfer applicants have strong grades in rigorous academic courses and have completed freshman-level English and math. UMD values the talents, accomplishments, and experiences of transfer students.
Financial Aid
College is an investment in your future. All students and families are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). It is recommended to file as early as possible.
Campus Life and Opportunities
There is more to the University of Maryland than what you learn in the classroom. Whatever experience you're looking for to round out your education, you can find it here. UMD offers a wide range of opportunities to get involved, from clubs and organizations to research and internships.
Orientation Leader Program
UMD is looking for Orientation Leaders (OL) to assist with orientation programs. The OL position provides an outstanding opportunity to gain leadership skills and enhance marketability for future employment opportunities.
Visiting UMD
Tour our top-notch facilities. Have a scoop of homemade ice cream at the Dairy. Rub a Testudo statue’s nose for good luck. Get all your questions answered.
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