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University of Southern Maine logo

University of Southern Maine

Portland, Maine · Public

$12k/yearCost after aid
Aug 15Application deadline

FindU Grade

B-Value
N/ACampus
C+Academics
C-Admissions
C+Student Life
C+Overall

About

University of Southern Maine is located in Portland, Maine. It is a public institution. The university enrolls approximately 4,245 students.

usm.maine.edu

Cost and aid

True cost

Great value
$12kper year

Compared to $17k national average

Cost breakdown

In-state tuition$10,920
Out-of-state tuition$27,104
Room & board$11,650
Avg aid package$10,158
Students receiving aid26%
Pell grant recipients26%

The University of Southern Maine aims to provide an affordable education with both on-campus and online options. While specific financial aid details aren't provided, USM is a public institution, suggesting a commitment to accessible tuition. They offer a variety of scholarships, including the Dirigo Scholar Award, President's Scholar Award, and USM Scholar Award.

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Admissions

Test scores

SAT · middle 50%995–1280
4001600
ACT · middle 50%23–26
136

Application info

Acceptance rate79%
Average GPA3.25
Student–faculty ratio14:1
Common AppYes
Application fee$0

Application dates

Regular DecisionJun 1

The University of Southern Maine has a selective admission policy with an acceptance rate range of 80-89%. They welcome international students and offer direct admission for eligible Maine Community College System (MCCS) students. USM looks for students with strong academic records and grades.

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Academics

Graduation rate44%
Retention rate76%
Student–faculty ratio14:1
Full-time faculty40%

The University of Southern Maine offers a diverse range of programs with over 300 undergraduate and graduate options. Students can personalize their academic path by mixing majors, minors, and certificates. The university emphasizes exploration and flexibility across its four campuses, including online programs.

Outcomes

Median earnings (10 yrs)$49,958
Earn more than HS grad78%
Loan default (3 yr)4%
Loan repayment (3 yr)65%

USM prepares students for successful careers through practical learning experiences and community engagement. Every undergraduate program includes internships, and the Career & Employment Hub supports students from their first day through graduation. Graduates benefit from strong ties with local industries and organizations, providing valuable networking opportunities.

Student life

Demographics

Medium School
4,245Student size

Compared to 5,382 national average

More femaleGender ratio
Female 59%Male 41%
76% WhiteRacial diversity
White 76%Black 8%Hispanic 5%Asian 3%Other 9%
Campus housingYes

USM provides a multicampus experience with distinct environments in Portland, Gorham, and Lewiston. Gorham is the residential hub with a vibrant student life, while Portland offers an urban setting with STEM programs and research labs. Students can engage in various activities, including NCAA Division III athletics, club sports like esports, and Greek life.

Student reviews

Campus and vibes

Student

What I like about this university is how diverse it is. There are transfer and study abroad students from different countries which makes it so that you can get to know them better and learn about their culture and experiences. I also like the location that university is. One of the campuses is in a quiet environment outside of the bigger city but is still near local businesses and major businesses. The other campus is in a larger area and is surrounded by the city and has access to near by attractions such as theaters and the beaches.

About University of Southern Maine

USM is committed to maintaining a safe campus environment with well-marked emergency telephones and routine patrols by Public Safety. The Department has jurisdiction over the Portland and Gorham campuses, with officers trained in the same manner as other law enforcement officers in Maine. Residence halls are secured 24/7 with electronic card access.

USM provides research opportunities through programs like the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP) and Graduate Research Opportunities (GRO). Students can gain hands-on experience in labs, makerspaces, and through global study opportunities. The annual Thinking Matters event showcases student research.

USM welcomes international students and provides ongoing advising and support services. The university is an active member of the University of the Arctic, promoting education and research in the Arctic region. USM also participates in mobility programs like north2north, enabling students to study in different parts of the North.

Endowment$46,350,000
Avg faculty salary$128,520

University of Southern Maine FAQ

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University of Southern Maine admits about 79% of applicants. But your real odds are personal. They depend on your grades, scores, and story. Answer a few quick questions and FindU calculates your match.

76%Your chances
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Your SAT 1380Admit range 1230–1480
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