Public
Accredited · New England Commission on Higher Education
Orono, Maine
95.7% Acceptance Rate
University of Maine — Admission Snapshot 2026
A complete at-a-glance picture of every metric that matters for your 2026 application
95.7%Acceptance Rate
3.42Avg GPA
1200Avg SAT
$26,418Annual Cost
$48,653Grad Salary
22%Pell Grant
Acceptance Rate
95.7%
Avg GPA
3.42
Avg SAT
1200
Selectivity
Inclusive
Institution Type
Public
Campus
Main Campus
Accredited By
New England Commission on Higher Education
SAT Middle 50%
1160–1230
Avg Net Price
$18,045
Need-Based Aid
22% receive Pell
University of Maine Acceptance Rate
University of Maine maintains an inclusive admission policy. With an acceptance rate of 95.7%, the institution prioritizes accessibility and opportunity for all qualified students.
Admissions Guidelines
- Inclusive Enrollment: Emphasis is placed on meeting basic eligibility and high school completion.
- Launchpad Policy: Ideal for students looking to build a GPA for future transfer or career certification.
Selectivity at a Glance
Inclusive
Selectivity scale: Inclusive — 95.7% acceptance rate
Most Selective (0%)Open Enrollment (100%)
Recommended Academic Profile
Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
3.42 – 4.00
Target Match
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
3.22 – 3.41
Competitive Reach
Focus on Score Compensation
Below 2.97
Secondary Reach
Requires Contextual Support
Data verified via IPEDS, College Scorecard (Nov 2025) and the Common Data Set (CDS). Expert Review led by Sohaib Khan and Dr. Waseem.
University of Maine GPA Requirement
The average GPA of admitted students at University of Maine is 3.42. Admission is competitive, but not extremely selective.
A mix of A's and B's is acceptable, and taking AP/IB courses helps.
Note: This is an unweighted GPA on a 4.0 scale. Students with AP or IB courses will typically have a weighted GPA of 3.62-3.82 for this same academic profile.If your GPA is between 3.12 and 3.42, you should aim for a high SAT or ACT score.
University of Maine GPA & Admission Outlook
Assessment: Selective; solid academic performance is expected.
Recommended Strategy: Focus on a Strong 'Spike' in extracurriculars or research.
Admissions at University of Maine utilize a Holistic Review process. With an average admitted GPA of 3.42, the following table illustrates how your specific academic profile aligns with institutional expectations.
Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
3.42 – 4.00
Target/Match
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
3.22 – 3.41
Competitive Match
Focus on SAT/ACT Compensation
3.02 – 3.21
Secondary Reach
Personal Statement & Impact
Below 3.01
Institutional Reach
Requires Significant Contextual Factors
Expert Insight: 2026 Evaluation Metrics
- The Rigor Metric: At University of Maine, a slightly lower GPA (e.g., 3.8) in a transcript featuring multiple AP or IB courses is often prioritized over a 4.0 in a standard curriculum.
- The Upward Trend: If your early high school grades were lower, an upward trajectory in 11th and 12th grade demonstrates Academic Resilience.
Data Source: Verified via IPEDS and latest Common Data Set (CDS). Reviewed by our academic board led by Sohaib Khan and Dr. Waseem.
Check Your Admission Chances at University of Maine
Admission Chance Predictor
Real-Time Sensitive Analysis — based on University of Maine's verified institutional data
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Calculating Profile...
Adjust the sliders to see how every decimal point affects your outcome.
Your SAT Score 1200
Your Unweighted GPA 3.00
✅ Verified Data: Institutional records for 2026.
Calculated via College Portal's Human-Intelligence (HI) Methodology & Editorial Standards. Verified by Sohaib Ahmad Khan.
University of Maine Test Requirements
In this competitive environment, standardized scores are no longer elective; they serve as a critical standardized benchmark to validate high school GPA and course rigor. Applicants should aim for scores within or above the middle 50% range of the 2026 admitted class to remain viable in the Holistic Review process. At institutions that remain test-optional, submitting a high-percentile score is still the primary strategy for securing merit-based scholarships and distinguishing one's profile in a high-volume applicant pool.
Can I Get Into University of Maine Without SAT or ACT?
University of Maine does not require admission test scores (SAT/ACT) during the application process and does not recommend that students provide these scores. But it is better to submit the test score if you have performed well in the test. It gives an extra opportunity to showcase your skills and competencies and hence will improve your chances of admission. It is advisable to appear multiple times in the test unless you score well above the average SAT / ACT score of the admitted students. Normally, students may appear in the test 2 to 3 times to improve their scores. But if your score is not up to the mark and is less than the national or state average, then it is better not to submit the score as it will impact negatively.
University of Maine Average SAT Score: 1200
The average SAT score of the admitted students at University of Maine is 1200 on the 1600 SAT scale.
SAT Competitiveness
SAT 1200 — Slightly Competitive
This score makes it slightly Competitive for SAT test scores. You need to do well to score 1200 on the SAT.
Key Insight: Aim for the 75th percentile (1230 SAT) to stand out. If your scores are below average, consider retaking the test. University of Maine allows Score Choice for the SAT and Superscoring for the ACT, giving you flexibility to submit your best scores.
If your score is below 1160, retaking the SAT is strongly recommended to improve your chances at University of Maine. Retaking the test multiple times is completely normal — most competitive applicants take the SAT two or three times to achieve their best score. There is no official limit on attempts.
SAT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| SAT Math | - | - | - |
| SAT Reading | - | - | - |
| SAT Composite | 1200 | 1160 | 1230 |
It means that if you have scored less than 1160 then you are below most of the admitted students at University of Maine and your chances of admission are very few. But if you have scored 1230 or more, your chances of admission are higher. 25th percentile means that only 25% of the admitted students have fewer scores than this score. 75th percentile marks the score of the upper 25% of the students.
View list of all colleges with average SAT score of 1200
Can I get into University of Maine with a 1250 SAT?
With a 1250 SAT Score, your chances of admission at University of Maine are good but the admission staff at University of Maine tests your all-around personality and your academics. Your GPA, Class performance, SAT/ACT/Test scores, and AP or IB Courses can help your application stand out. Co-curricular and extra-curricular activities and interpersonal communication skills are very important. Additionally, if you cannot perform well in one area, you have a chance to showcase your strengths and abilities in other areas, improving other areas will help you secure admission. You need to show better performance in all areas. An equally high GPA, taking IB or AP Courses and your role in leadership activities will increase your chances of admission. However, if you equally compete well in all other areas, your chances of admission are high.
Your 2026 Admissions Roadmap for University of Maine
Inclusive Strategy: Success & Transfer
University of Maine provides an open gateway to higher education. Success here is about utilizing resources and planning your long-term academic or career trajectory.
Meet Eligibility Floors
Ensure you have your high school diploma or GED ready. Open admission means you are in as long as you meet the basic administrative requirements.
Placement Preparation
Focus on the ACCUPLACER or internal placement tests. Performing well here allows you to jump directly into credit-bearing Math and English.
Transfer Path Planning
If you intend to move to a more selective school later, maintain a 3.5+ GPA here to make yourself a highly competitive transfer candidate.
Career Certification
Identify specific certificate programs or internships offered by University of Maine that connect directly to the local job market.
Note: While acceptance is guaranteed, space in specific high-demand programs (like Nursing or Tech) may still be competitive.
University of Maine Profile
Full Name
University of Maine
City
Orono
State
Maine
ZIP Code
4469
Type
Public
Campus
Main Campus
Official Website
Accredited By
New England Commission on Higher Education (NECHE)
Is a University of Maine Degree Worth It?
Getting into University of Maine can be a great opportunity for many students. It is a prestigious institution known for its strong programs. However, whether it is worth it depends on your personal and academic goals, as well as your financial situation. University of Maine offers a rigorous academic environment and access to cutting-edge research, but it may not be the best fit for everyone. It's important to consider factors such as cost, location, and specific academic programs when making this decision.
Please note that the average household income of the admitted students at University of Maine is $54,900 and the graduate unemployment rate is 3.14%.
How much does a degree from University of Maine Cost?
The average annual cost of the degree at University of Maine is $26,418. As most of the students receive Pell Grants and Federal Grants the average annual net price a student has to pay at University of Maine is $18,045.
22% of the students are receiving Pell Grant and 42.8 percent are receiving Federal Grants. So it is a better choice to go to University of Maine and apply for PELL or federal loan grants.
At University of Maine, you will have no problem receiving any scholarship from the federal government. Fill in the FAFSA application form at the earliest and enlist University of Maine as your choice in the form.
How much does a University of Maine Graduate earn?
The average annual salary of the graduate after 4–6 years of graduation is $48,653. An average University of Maine graduate makes this much after 10 years of enrollment (4–6 years after graduation).
The average annual income of a graduate in the United States is $40,595.
Compare Similar Colleges
Less Competitive Schools
These schools have lower average SAT or ACT scores than University of Maine. If your SAT or ACT score is slightly lower, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Arkansas | Fayetteville, AR | 1174 | 25 |
| Harding University | Searcy, AR | 1187 | 25 |
| Azusa Pacific University | Azusa, CA | 1155 | 22 |
| University of New Haven | West Haven, CT | 1190 | NA |
| Florida International University | Miami, FL | 1154 | 23 |
| Nova Southeastern University | Fort Lauderdale, FL | 1182 | 25 |
| Georgia College & State University | Milledgeville, GA | 1150 | 24 |
| Savannah College of Art and Design | Savannah, GA | 1178 | 25 |
| Spelman College | Atlanta, GA | 1184 | 24 |
| Toccoa Falls College | Toccoa Falls, GA | 1155 | 23 |
Equally Competitive Schools
These schools have the same range of average SAT or ACT scores as University of Maine. If your SAT or ACT score is competitive, you'll be competitive for these schools also.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Birmingham-Southern College | Birmingham, AL | 1197 | 24 |
| Samford University | Birmingham, AL | 1203 | 26 |
| Dominican University of California | San Rafael, CA | 1194 | 26 |
| Eastern Connecticut State University | Willimantic, CT | 1200 | NA |
| University of Hartford | West Hartford, CT | 1207 | 29 |
More Competitive Schools
These schools have higher average SAT or ACT scores than University of Maine. If you improve your SAT or ACT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Alabama at Birmingham | Birmingham, AL | 1251 | 26 |
| University of Arizona | Tucson, AZ | 1261 | 26 |
| Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott | Prescott, AZ | 1256 | 27 |
| Biola University | La Mirada, CA | 1258 | 27 |
| Point Loma Nazarene University | San Diego, CA | 1278 | 26 |
Degree Programs at University of Maine
Bachelor Degree Programs
Full list of all degree programs offered by University of Maine →
Frequently Asked Questions About University of Maine Admissions
Graduates of this university typically earn a lower salary, $48,653 annually, especially in non-technical fields.
The tuition fee at this university is relatively low, around $26,418 per year, making it more affordable for many students.
22.0% of students receive a Pell Grant here, which is below the national average of around 35%. This institution serves a higher proportion of higher-income students. Merit-based scholarships may still be available regardless of financial need — check the official financial aid page of the institute for details.
The acceptance rate of University of Maine is 95.7% which is relatively high, above 20%, making it somewhat easier to gain admission compared to other top-tier universities.
The average GPA of admitted students is 3.42. This reflects the competitive academic profile expected from applicants.
While there is no single cutoff that guarantees a rejection, admission staff uses your GPA to determine if you are a best fit. If you have at least a 3.12, you are in the standard pool. If you are below a 3.12, we need to focus on your personal essay and letters of recommendation to explain the context behind your grades.
If your GPA is 3.02 or less, it may make admission difficult. However, your chances may improve if you have strong test scores, extracurricular activities, and essays. But this does not mean that you must not apply, or you do not have any chances. With additional AP courses, you can increase your chances even with this GPA.
While the average GPA of admitted students is 3.42, applicants with lower GPAs can still be considered if they have strong test scores, extracurriculars, and compelling personal essays that demonstrate resilience and potential.
Admission to University of Maine is based on SAT, and a strong SAT score is essential. Aim for scores above 1200 for the best chances, although the overall application strength also matters. Your SAT must be in the range of 1160–1230.
Yes, many students successfully transfer each year. Be prepared with your academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and a solid personal statement to make your application competitive.
To improve your chances, focus on excelling academically, building a strong extracurricular profile, and submitting standout essays. High SAT/ACT scores are also crucial for competitive admissions.