Welcome, Future First-Year Students

When you’re a student at UMBC, you’ll build your character–through thoughts, words, and actions–and set the course for your future.

Getting Started

As a UMBC student, you’ll build the skills and knowledge you need to succeed.

Why UMBC?

We’re known for being innovative, so you’ll get the best of what private institutions might offer without the hefty price tag.

Visit Campus

Get to know us and our campus and see what it’s like to be a Retriever!

How to Apply

Learn how and when to apply–all the necessary steps to guide you through the application process.

Majors and Programs

We offer 100+ areas of study, from the arts and humanities to STEM majors—and often crossing disciplines in creative ways.

Scholars Programs and Honors College

Competitive programs with financial awards and opportunities for advanced research, unique seminars, directed internships, study abroad, and more.

International First-Year Students

Will you need a non-immigrant visa to study and live in the United States? If so, learn more about what it means to be an international student at UMBC!

Funding Your Education

Cost is a huge factor in college decisions, so we focus on making sure that we’re giving you plenty of bang for your buck.

First-Time First-Year Class Profile

Total First-Year Enrollment: 2,144
Average GPA: 3.96
Average SAT Score: 1303 (2-part)
Average ACT Composite Score: 25.7
47% Women / 53% Men

Deadlines

First-Year

Fall Enrollment Application Deadlines

November
1
Early Action Admission to UMBC Honors College Priority Admission
February
1
Regular Decision Admission to UMBC Honors College Regular Admission

Spring Enrollment Application Deadlines

October
15
Priority Admission to UMBC Honors College Priority Admission
December
1
Regular Admission to UMBC Honors College Regular Admission

Stories of Student Success

Undergraduate Researchers

Wondering what all the excitement is about research? Learn what it’s like to be an undergraduate researcher from our students.

88%

Of 2020 degree recipients reported firm plans of being employed and/or heading to graduate school.

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