How do I know if I should apply test-optional or not?

Our 25th-75th percentile test score range is 1190-1360. Given this information, you can decide whether or not your test scores would benefit your application.

• Learn more about our typical first-year class profile.
• Learn more about our typical incoming transfer class profile. 

Our approach to evaluating applications is holistic and—most importantly—additive. There is no disadvantage to applying test-optional. Each element of your application accumulates to help us understand who you are as a prospective student and scholar. We will evaluate you based on what we know about you, as opposed to what we don’t know about you.

If you have any test scores (ACT, SAT, AP, IB, etc.) you feel are good indicators of your academic ability, we invite you to send those to us. If you do not have those scores or do not feel they are good indicators of your academic ability, you will not be penalized if you choose not to submit them. We encourage students to reach out to an admissions counselor if you would like to discuss your academic record in more detail.

Do any majors or colleges require that I submit an SAT/ACT?

UMBC is test-optional for 2023-2024 admission across all majors, programs, and colleges.

Do I need to submit test scores for general merit scholarships?

Students do not need to submit test scores to be considered for merit scholarships. Merit scholarship eligibility is based on what we know about you at the time of application.

Does the Honors College or Scholars Programs still require SAT/ ACT? Will I be at a disadvantage if I choose not to submit my test scores? 

The Honors College and Scholars Programs will consider a variety of factors, including your grade point average, academic trend, strength of curriculum, personal statement, letters of recommendation, other achievements, and standardized test scores (if provided). Additionally, they will evaluate your application based on your interests and your specific application to the program(s). Please rest assured that you will not be penalized if you do not submit your standardized test scores.

How will this impact homeschoolers who apply with non-traditional transcripts and courses?

Our approach to evaluating applications is holistic and–most importantly–additive. Each element of your application accumulates to help us understand who you are as a prospective student and scholar. We will evaluate you based on what we know about you, as opposed to what we don’t know about you.

If you have any test scores (ACT, SAT, AP, IB, etc.) you feel are good indicators of your academic ability, we invite you to send those to us. If you do not have those scores or do not feel they are good indicators of your academic ability, you will not be penalized if you do not submit them.

Do I need to submit my scores if I’m a transfer student with less than 30 credits?

Transfer students who have less than 30 credits are not required to submit their test scores.

How do I apply for admission?

UMBC is a member of the Common Application. To apply for admission, you must submit the completed Common Application, a $75 application fee, and official high school transcripts. Submitting official SAT and/or ACT scores is optional. A maximum of two letters of recommendation will also be accepted. Learn more about the application process.

What do you consider when reviewing my application for first-year admission?

The admissions committee weighs a number of factors in making its decision. In addition to grade point average, the strength of your curriculum, class rank, other achievements, your essay, and standardized test scores (if provided) will be considered.

Will UMBC award credit for my AP exam scores?

We will continue to award credit and/or placement based on the scores indicated on UMBC’s list of approved Advanced Placement (AP) examinations. To receive credit for AP exams, you must have an official Advanced Placement score report sent to the UMBC Office of Undergraduate Admissions and Orientation.

How can I check the status of my application?

Once your application is processed, an acknowledgment email is sent to the email address listed on your Common App which includes instructions on how to create a myUMBC account. Once you’ve created your myUMBC account you will be able to monitor the status of your application.

When can I expect to receive my decision?

Students who apply for our November 1 Early Action deadline will receive an email decision notification in late December. Applicants for our February 1 Regular Decision deadline will receive an email decision beginning in late February. Learn more.

What can I do if I was not offered admission?

If you are waitlisted or we were unable to offer you admission, please know that this is not the end of your UMBC journey. Many students follow different paths in obtaining their college degree and our staff is always willing to assist you in any way they can. Learn more.

What do you consider when reviewing my application for transfer admission?

The admissions committee evaluates transfer applicants on the basis of their academic record at previous institutions. Cumulative grade point average as calculated by UMBC, academic trends, strength of curriculum, and performance in courses related to the intended area of study are considered. Learn more about planning your transfer.

How do I apply for admission?

UMBC is a member of the Common Application. To apply for admission, you must submit the completed Common Application, a $75 application fee, and official transcripts from all previously attended institutions. It is the applicant’s responsibility to request transcripts from each of their prior colleges. Learn more about the application process.

Will UMBC award credit for my AP exam scores?

We will continue to award credit and/or placement based on the scores indicated on UMBC’s list of approved Advanced Placement (AP) examinations. To receive credit for AP exams, you must have an official Advanced Placement score report sent to the UMBC Office of Undergraduate Admissions and Orientation.

When can I expect to receive my decision?

UMBC accepts transfer applications for both our Fall and Spring terms. Our Fall deadlines for admission are March 1 (Priority) and June 1 (Regular), and our Spring admissions deadlines are October 15 (Priority) and December 1 (Regular). Applicants can expect an email decision notification 3-4 weeks from the time a completed application is received by the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. Learn more.

How should I prepare to transfer?

We know that three of the most asked questions regarding transfer are: How will my credits transfer? How long will it take to graduate? and How much will it cost? That’s why we’ve created Transfer Central. Rather than simply giving you a list of the courses that typically transfer to UMBC, we’ve gone a step further. This interactive tool will give you real-time credit estimates, best-fit major recommendations, and access to important dates, milestones, and transfer resources that you’ll need along the way.

What can I do if I was not offered admission?

If you were not offered admission to UMBC, you can be considered for another term after completing additional college coursework to improve your academic record. Competitive applicants typically present an overall cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or higher in all college-level coursework. Learn more.

Is UMBC still hosting on-campus events and tours?

Currently, UMBC is offering a number of opportunities-both in-person and virtual-for you to engage with us and get the information you need. We encourage you to review our Campus Visit and Events page to explore your options.