does university of maryland college park have supplemental essays

2023-24 University of Maryland (UMD) Supplemental Essays – Prompts and Tips

September 8, 2023

With more than 56,000 applicants per year, you might think that the University of Maryland—College Park admissions committee would want to create a fast-paced assembly line for application reviews that is 99% based on the hard numbers like GPA and SAT scores. Yet, in addition to those important data points and the 650-word Common App essay, prospective Terrapins are  also asked to complete six short “Complete this Sentence” University of Maryland supplemental essays as part of a genuinely holistic admissions process. Today, we’ll explore the UMD supplemental essays.

 (Want to learn more about How to Get Into the University of Maryland—College Park? Visit our blog entitled:  How to Get Into the University of Maryland: Admissions Data and Strategies  for all of the most recent admissions data as well as tips for gaining acceptance.)

As the University of Maryland becomes more selective—the acceptance rate was just 34% last year—applicants need to find ways to stand out from the competition. Fortunately, these six short answer essays provide just such an opportunity. Below are the UMD supplemental essays for the 2023-24 admissions cycle along with tips about how to address each one.

UMD Supplemental Essays – 2023-24 Prompts

Applicants must complete each of the following fill-in-the-blank responses in 650 characters (not words!) max each:

1) If I could travel anywhere, I would go to… (650 characters)

There’s nothing wrong with simply naming a popular and/or exotic city if you wish, but don’t feel like that is your sole option with this essay. For example, you could travel to see a particular painting in an art gallery in Finland. You could travel through time to have a conversation with 19th century women’s right’s hero Elizabeth Cady Stanton. You could travel to Montana’s Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument to dig for dinosaur fossils alongside paleontologists. There is no shortage of ways to create an answer that contains more depth and meaning than simply saying “Paris, because it has beautiful architecture.”

2) The most interesting fact I ever learned from research was… (650 characters)

“But wait, I’m a 17/18-year-old who has done some experiments in Chemistry class, but I didn’t exactly win a Nobel Prize for learning how to safely use a Bunsen burner.” Applicants sometimes panic when they first read this question. However, the only expectation is that you cite a finding from someone else’s research that you found meaningful and enlightening. If you aren’t interested in the hard sciences, that’s perfectly fine! There is plenty of research that takes place outside of the STEM realm. Some ideas include:

• The Environment

UMD Supplemental Essays (Continued)

3) in addition to my major, my academic interests include… (650 characters).

Note the operative phrase here—“In addition to my major.” This is a chance to talk about one or more of your academic passions that are a) an extension of your major b) separate from your major or c) part of an interdisciplinary connection between your major and another discipline.

Of course, the second key word here is “academic” so you’ll want to make sure that the subject or subjects you wish to discuss are at least somewhat related to an area that could be studied in college. Use this prompt to showcase your diverse interests and intellectual passions and remember that “academic” in a college setting means more than just straight subjects like high school biology, geometry, or world history. In a collegiate setting, there are academic offerings in psychology, art, criminal justice, philosophy, artificial intelligence, and hundreds of other expansive and intriguing options so don’t feel overly-constrained!

4) My favorite thing about last Thursday was… (650 characters)

You could look back at your Google Calendar or old texts in a quest to uncover whether last Thursday was the day you reheated beef stroganoff for dinner or whether that was the night you ordered Uber Eats from Chipotle while studying for a Calculus final. However, there is another way to reimagine the question which removes “last Thursday’s” random and limiting presence altogether. Instead, change the question to, “What is something that has happened to me recently that may have seemed small/everyday-ish, but truly mattered to me and communicates something about my character/personality?”

Think of this prompt as a chance to show off your skills of observation and reflection. Even in 650 characters, try to paint a picture of your appreciation for one of life’s small moments.

5) When I think of diversity, I think of.. (650 characters)

Try to avoid going the stale “the dictionary definition of diversity is…” route. Get personal and share what being a part of a diverse community means to you. Remember, diversity can apply to race, ethnicity, religion, socioeconomic status, and gender. Even diversity of thought and political ideology are on the table here. The goal is to sincerely communicate your feelings toward being a member of a diverse Terrapin campus. In fact, 47% of current undergraduates identify as students of color.

6) Because we know that diversity benefits the educational experience of all students, the University of Maryland values diversity in all of its many forms.  This includes (but is not limited to) racial, socio-economic, gender, geographical, and sexual orientation.  We are interested in hearing about your own individual life experiences.  In a few sentences, will you please describe how you have learned, grown, been inspired or developed skills through one or more components of diversity.  (650 characters)

Remember, diversity can apply to race, ethnicity, religion, socioeconomic status, and gender. Even diversity of thought and political ideology are on the table here. The goal is to think about your experiences and observations in this realm—is there a particular situation, challenge, or aspect of your own (or someone else’s) identity that has enabled you to learn or grow in this area? Perhaps you’ve learned how to advocate for yourself or someone else, been exposed to a new way of thinking, learned how to have difficult conversations, educated others, or been inspired by a peer’s story. Bottom line: there are many possible options here, and UMD wants to understand how you would contribute to and/or support diverse spaces on campus.

How important are the UMD supplemental essays?

The essays at the University of Maryland are an “important” factor in their evaluation process, alongside class rank, recommendations, talent/ability, first-generation status, and state residency. This ranks higher than factors such as extracurricular activities, legacy status, race/ethnicity, or work experience.

Want personalized assistance with your UMD supplemental essays?

If you are interested in working with one of College Transitions’ experienced and knowledgeable essay coaches as you craft your UMD supplemental essays, we encourage you to get a quote  today.

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University of Maryland Supplemental Essays 2023-24

Wondering how to write your University of Maryland supplemental essays? If so, you’re in the right place. The UMD essay prompts are unique, both in length and style. In fact, all of the UMD supplemental essays are actually short-answer questions. So, applicants need to be strategic about their responses to the UMD prompts if they want to make their application stand out. 

In this guide to the UMD essays, we’ll go beyond just introducing you to the UMD essay prompts. You’ll find tips for building your short answer responses and for writing your all-important personal statement. If you are considering transferring to UMD, we also go over the UMD supplemental essays for transfer students. Finally, we will connect you to several other resources that can aid you in your essay writing journey. 

By the end of this guide, we hope to have answered most of your questions about applying to UMD. Then, you’ll have the tools you’ll need to write excellent University of Maryland supplemental essays. But, before we jump in, let’s start with some UMD Admissions Quick Facts.

UMD Supplemental Essays: Quick Facts

University of maryland admissions quick facts.

• University of Maryland Acceptance Rate:  44% – If you’re considering applying early, note that the early acceptance rate at UMD is 47.7%.
• 1 (~650 word) personal essay
• 6 (~650 character) short answer questions
• University of Maryland Application:  Students must submit their UMD application through the  Common Application or the StandOut Admissions Network . Prepare your  required application materials , including your University of Maryland supplemental essays, before applying . 
• Early Action: November 1
• Regular Decision: January 20 
• University of Maryland Essay Tip:  Don’t overthink your responses to the University of Maryland supplemental essays. Go with an answer that feels authentic and then write concise and clear answers to the prompts. 

Please note that essay requirements are subject to change each admissions cycle, and portions of this article may have been written before the final publication of the most recent guidelines. For the most up-to-date information on essay requirements, check the university’s admissions website.

Does the University of Maryland have supplemental essays?

Yes – there are six University of Maryland supplemental essays. However, the UMD supplemental essays are very different from most other schools’ essay prompts. Let’s look at a few ways they differ.

Short Essays

First, the University of Maryland supplemental essays are very short. On average, supplemental essays range in word count from 150-300 words. The University of Maryland supplemental essays are described as short answer questions, and rightly so. The maximum length is 650 characters, which amounts to anywhere from 92 to 163 words, depending on your word length. With such limited space, you’ll need to be concise in your answers to the UMD College Park supplemental essays.

Quirky Questions

Secondly, the University of Maryland supplemental essays are focused on understanding who you are through different snapshots of your life. Many supplemental essays focus on your academic interests or why you want to attend a given college. However, the UMD supplemental essays ask seemingly random questions like “What did you do last Thursday?”. While the UMD essay prompts might seem random, they’re there for a reason: to take the pressure off! These fun prompts allow students to showcase a realistic and holistic perspective on who they are beyond being a student.

Six Prompts

Finally, there are six UMD supplemental essays. Most commonly, schools have one to two required supplemental essays and potentially an optional one. By offering six University of Maryland supplemental essays, UMD seeks to give students many ways to showcase who they are. And, since they’re all required, applicants have no choice but to make the most of their responses.

Next, let’s look at each of the UMD College Park supplemental essays and talk about how you might respond to each one.

UMD Supplemental Essay Requirements

As we shared above, there are six required University of Maryland supplemental essays. The word limit for each is 650 characters (between 92 and 136 words). In this section, we will start by breaking down what each of the UMD essay prompts is looking for. Then, we’ll get into how you can provide an answer that will impress University of Maryland admissions officers.

Here are the six UMD essay prompts, followed by some guidance about how to respond.

University of Maryland Prompt 1

If i could travel anywhere, i would go to….

The first of the UMD supplemental essays is a fun one. With this question, the school is looking to see your adventurous spirit come through. Answer authentically, while being specific. Avoid being too general by stating the name of a continent or a country. Instead, choose a city, town, or even neighborhood. And, avoid cliches that are overused, such as “I would travel to another time period.” You can generally avoid falling into the trap of cliches if you’re specific and answer in a heartfelt, honest manner.

University of Maryland Prompt 2

The most interesting fact i ever learned from research was… .

In the second of your University of Maryland supplemental essays, UMD is looking for evidence of your curious mindset. Feel free to interpret the word “research” broadly. While actual scientific research is valid to highlight, it’s not the only avenue to choose. You could also talk about a topic you did a deep dive on the internet to learn more about. Again, be specific about why this fact interested you. 

Second, connect your interest back to a personal value or an academic subject you enjoy. For example, maybe you were fascinated to learn that the Great Pacific Garbage Patch contains enough trash to fill 500 Jumbo Jets. You’d want to then speak to why this was important to you and if learning it had any impact on your future thoughts or actions.

University of Maryland Prompt 3

In addition to my major, my academic interests include… .

The third of your UMD supplemental essays is focused on your academic interests. The key to this prompt are the words, “In addition to my major.” This question is looking for insight into other fields of interest besides your stated major. The University of Maryland supplemental essays create space for you to highlight your various interests and demonstrate your intellectual curiosity.

To answer this question, consider other academic subjects that interest you. Note that you do not have to list a field, like mechanical engineering or business. Instead, you can provide specific topics that interest you. For example, maybe your academic interests include reading Shakespearean plays or learning Italian. Include a few sentences about why you are interested in this topic. Do you have fond memories of acting out Shakespearean plays in sophomore English? Maybe you have plans to one day travel to Florence, so learning Italian inspires you. Whatever you choose, be genuine.

University of Maryland Prompt 4

My favorite thing about last thursday was… .

Some students may read this UMD supplemental essay prompt and wonder why the school wants to know what happened last Thursday. The answer is simple – they want to know what you really value in your daily life. Don’t overthink your response. Rather, try to reflect upon your previous Thursday with wonder. What did you enjoy about that day? What was exciting, inspiring, or special? Maybe the weather was so cool and crisp that you felt inspired to go for a run. Or perhaps, you found out a friend won an award, and it made you happy to see that person honored. 

If you can’t remember what you did last Thursday, then pick any recent day you do remember. The school does not actually care about Thursday in particular, but rather the way in which you reflect upon your life. Use sensory details and explain why your answer is meaningful to you. Remember, even the little things can give your University of Maryland supplemental essays extra flair. 

University of Maryland Prompt 5

Something you might not know about me is… .

For some students, the most challenging of the UMD College Park supplemental essays is this one because of its open-endedness. However, rather than stress about trying to guess what might impress University of Maryland admissions officers, simply be yourself. This prompt allows you to highlight something that does not fit into any of the other prompts. So, you might wish to answer this question last.

Indeed, there is no “right” answer to this question. But you should still take time to think of something about yourself that is actually meaningful to you. Maybe you love waking up early on Saturdays to have pancakes with your family because it reminds you of how much you are loved. Maybe you paint portraits of your favorite hip-hop artists because you admire their music so much. As with all the UMD supplemental essays, being genuine and explaining why you chose your answer will be key.

University of Maryland Prompt 6

Because we know that diversity benefits the educational experience of all students, the university of maryland values diversity in all of its many forms. this includes (but is not limited to) racial, socio-economic, gender, geographical, and sexual orientation. we are interested in hearing about your own individual life experiences. in a few sentences, will you please describe how you have learned, grown, been inspired or developed skills through one or more components of diversity. .

The last, but certainly not least important, of the UMD College Park supplemental essays is the diversity question. The first step in answering this question is to remember that diversity is a broad term. Diversity can include things like your race, culture, or socioeconomic status. But it can also include where you grew up, unique childhood experiences, or challenges you may have faced. 

The key is to reflect upon your life experiences and how they have shaped you. For example, maybe you grew up in a family of self-starters, and this shaped your own desire to one day own a business. Or perhaps you were very sick as a child, and overcoming your illness taught you about patience and self-care. Whatever you choose, be sure to explain what this aspect of your life experience taught you. 

Besides your six University of Maryland supplemental essays, you will also submit a personal statement. Keep reading to learn more about what goes into your personal statement.

University of Maryland Personal Statement

In contrast to the six UMD College Park supplemental essays, your personal statement can be up to 650 words long. As such, you have much more space to express your thoughts. Your essay will respond to one of the seven Common App essay prompts.

To clarify, your University of Maryland personal statement is the same as your Common App personal statement. As such, your UMD personal statement will not be school-specific, but will instead contribute to your overall college application brand . So, think of your personal statement as a chance to write about a key part of your identity.

A well-written personal statement usually contains a story-like approach. This includes engaging elements like a hook and a story arc with a beginning, middle, and end. Many personal statements also include reflective moments where the student shares what they learned from the experience they are sharing. Read more about how to begin in this CollegeAdvisor resource on How to Start a Personal Statement.

UMD Essay Requirements – Transfer Students

If you are a transfer student, your University of Maryland supplemental essays will include a college transfer essay. What constitutes a transfer student? A transfer student is:

• Any student that has at least 12 semester or 18 quarter hours after high school graduation AND
• Is applying for admission at a new college

Your transfer application must accomplish a slightly different task of explaining to UMD why you wish to transfer schools.

Instead of a personal statement, transfer students will write a college transfer essay for their transfer application. Below is the prompt:

University of Maryland Transfer Students Essay Prompt

Please describe your past academic experiences and your reasons for wishing to enroll at umd at this point in your academic career. (300 words or less).

To effectively answer this question, transfer students must be clear about what specific aspect of studying at UMD appeals to them. Students who have been out of school for some time or have faced academic challenges should share more about those experiences in their responses. While there may be numerous reasons why you want to transfer, avoid speaking poorly of another school. Instead, focus on what makes you believe you will thrive at UMD.

Please note that your transfer application can only be submitted through the StandOut Admissions Network platform. The early action deadline for submitting a transfer application is: 

• March 1 of the spring before the fall semester in which you wish to enroll OR
• August 1 of the summer before the spring semester you wish to enroll

Next, we will explore some tips for writing your UMD supplemental essays.

Tips for approaching the UMD Supplemental Essays

Without a doubt, it can be daunting to see the six UMD essay prompts you have to respond to. After all, that’s a lot of UMD supplemental essays! Below are some tips for ensuring your responses are interesting and showcase the best version of yourself to UMD Admissions.

1. Be authentic

As always, authenticity is key. With these UMD College Park supplemental essays, the school is really trying to get to know multiple sides of you. If you try too hard to impress them, you are defeating the purpose of the UMD essay prompts. Ask friends and family to double-check your ideas and see whether they sound like you. Those who know you best can give valuable input.

2. Write first, then edit down

Some students feel frozen when they see the word count, not knowing how they can respond with only 650 characters. However, don’t worry about the length of your University of Maryland supplemental essays. Instead, write drafts that are as long as you need them to be. Then, go through your drafts and find the most critical ideas. These can be interesting details or insights that you believe are important. 

3. Avoid repetition

Since there are six UMD supplemental essays, you might be tempted to repeat topics or ideas. However, each 650-character essay is valuable real estate. Show something new about yourself in each of your UMD supplemental essays. Remember, Admissions is reading all six as a collection, not each one individually!

4. Share your why

For each of your University of Maryland supplemental essays, answer the question directly but be sure to share your why . Indeed, sharing why you chose an answer can often say as much or more about you than the answer itself. If I tell you my favorite color is blue, you’ve learned one simple fact. Now let’s say I add that my grandmother always wore blue at Sunday dinner and it reminds me of her. Now, you’ve learned that I value my family, miss my grandmother, and am nostalgic for dinners with her.

Next, we will take a deeper look at what the University of Maryland – College Park is known for. With this knowledge, you can write University of Maryland supplemental essays that demonstrate qualities that align with the school’s values.

What is the University of Maryland – College Park known for?

If you are considering applying to the University of Maryland, there is a lot you should know about the school. For one, the University of Maryland – College Park is a competitive public institution. According to U.S. News , the UMD acceptance rate is 44% and the school ranks #19 among top public universities . Similarly, Forbes ranked UMD #34 amongst its top colleges for 2023. As such, writing strong UMD supplemental essays is important to stand out against other qualified applicants. 

The University of Maryland – College Park is known for being the first campus in the UMD college system . The school is located in the suburb of College Park, Maryland. However, students also have easy access to the big cities of Baltimore and Washington, D.C. With over 30,000 undergraduates, UMD is a large campus with 12 colleges and more than 800 clubs and organizations. UMD is known for its excellent James Clark School of Engineering and Robert H. Smith School of Business, as well as its research initiatives. Lastly, UMD is known for its sustainability initiatives, with a plan in place to be carbon neutral by 2050.

As such a large school with so many resources, UMD College Park is likely to be a great fit for your studies . If you want to attend, keep reading to learn more about how to make your UMD supplemental essays stand out. 

How to make your University of Maryland Essays stand out!

If you want to beat the UMD acceptance rate, you’ll want your UMD supplemental essays to stand out from the pack. Here are a few tips for ensuring that they do:

1. Edit them well

Your UMD College Park supplemental essays are a chance to showcase who you are. But, they are also a chance to showcase your writing skills. Be sure to spend time editing for proper grammar, varied sentence structure, and clear transitions. Consider reading your essays out loud to catch errors. Also, ask a trusted advisor, like your CollegeAdvisor admissions expert or a teacher, to review your essays.

2. Include specific details

In each of your responses, include details that bring your response to life. Only having 650 characters for your UMD supplemental essays may feel limiting. But you can still include vivid imagery that helps to add some color to your essays.

3. Showcase your unique personality

As you write each of your UMD supplemental essays, make sure your voice is coming through. Avoid letting someone else edit your essays to the point where the voice no longer sounds like yours. The University of Maryland admissions officers want to know who you are, not an uncle or a friend. 

Next, we have even more places to find expert advice on how to write your University of Maryland supplemental essays.

More supplemental essay resources from CollegeAdvisor

Below are three CollegeAdvisor resources that might help you as you write your UMD College Park supplemental essays.

• 8 College Essay Topics : This resource covers the most common types of supplemental essays. Two of the types described in this article – the personal statement and the diversity essay – are ones you will have to write for your UMD College Park supplemental essays.
• How to Write Better Essays : This article provides tips for how to write essays of all kinds. From tips about your writing approach to ideas for how to choose topics, this article covers a lot of essay-writing ground. Review it before writing your University of Maryland supplemental essays.
• Common App Essay Examples : Looking for examples of strong personal statements? This article will highlight ten of them and explain why each one was successful. Understanding what makes an essay strong can help you write even stronger University of Maryland supplemental essays.

Continue browsing through CollegeAdvisor’s resources to find lots of free advice for your University of Maryland supplemental essays.

The University of Maryland Supplemental Essays – Final Thoughts

Now that you’ve read this guide on the University of Maryland supplemental essays, you should be ready to start writing. In this article, we reviewed the UMD essay prompts, both for a freshman UMD application and a transfer UMD application. We also broke down tips for writing your UMD College Park supplemental essays. 

Inevitably, the college process has a lot of unknowns, which can be stressful. However, writing good University of Maryland supplemental essays is entirely in your control. With this guidance and support from trusted advisors, you can beat the UMD acceptance rate and pursue your college dreams.

This essay guide was written by senior advisor, Courtney Ng . Looking for more admissions support? Click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.

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University of Maryland Supplemental Essays 2024 | Strategies and Insights for Success

With over 56,000 applicants vying for a spot each year, the University of Maryland—College Park’s admissions process might seem like a numbers game focused solely on GPA and SAT scores. However, in a testament to their commitment to a holistic review process, prospective Terrapins are also tasked with completing six short “Complete this Sentence” supplemental essays alongside the 650-word Common App essay. As UMD’s acceptance rate continues to drop—it was just 34% last year—applicants must seize the opportunity presented by these short answer essays to differentiate themselves.

Let’s delve into the UMD supplemental essays for the 2023-24 admissions cycle and explore tips on how to approach each one.

Also read University of Maryland Acceptance Rate | Strategies and Insights for Admission Success 2024

University of Maryland Supplemental Essays

1) If I could travel anywhere, I would go to… (650 characters)

While it’s tempting to pick a well-known destination, this prompt invites creativity. Consider journeys beyond geographical borders—exploring a historical era, delving into a niche interest, or engaging in a unique cultural experience. Whether it’s unearthing fossils in Montana or conversing with historical figures, your choice should reflect depth and curiosity.

2) The most interesting fact I ever learned from research was… (650 characters)

Research isn’t limited to science labs. From psychological insights to historical revelations, fascinating discoveries abound. Share a compelling finding that resonated with you, regardless of the field. Remember, it’s about the significance of the knowledge gained, not the accolades earned.

3) In addition to my major, my academic interests include… (650 characters)

Embrace the opportunity to showcase your intellectual breadth. Whether it’s exploring interdisciplinary connections or pursuing passions outside your major, delve into diverse academic interests. From philosophy to artificial intelligence, highlight the richness of your scholarly pursuits beyond the confines of your chosen field.

UMD Supplemental Essays

4) My favorite thing about last Thursday was… (650 characters)

Ditch the mundane details and delve into the significance of a recent moment. Whether it’s a small victory, a meaningful interaction, or a moment of personal growth, reflect on what made last Thursday memorable. Use vivid language to convey the essence of this cherished experience in a brief snapshot.

5) When I think of diversity, I think of.. (650 characters)

Move beyond textbook definitions and share your personal perspective on diversity. Consider how diversity enriches the fabric of society and shapes your worldview. Whether it’s cultural heritage, individual experiences, or varied perspectives, articulate what diversity means to you and how it enhances the University of Maryland community.

6) Because we know that diversity benefits the educational experience of all students, the University of Maryland values diversity in all of its many forms. This includes (but is not limited to) racial, socio-economic, gender, geographical, and sexual orientation. We are interested in hearing about your own individual life experiences. In a few sentences, will you please describe how you have learned, grown, been inspired or developed skills through one or more components of diversity. (650 characters)

Reflect on how diversity has shaped your personal journey and contributed to your growth. Share a specific experience or insight that has broadened your perspective or deepened your understanding of others. Whether it’s advocating for inclusivity, navigating cultural differences, or fostering empathy, highlight the ways in which diversity has influenced your development and prepared you to thrive in a diverse academic environment.

Also see 25 Most Affordable And Beautiful Colleges in Appalachia 2024

How Important are the UMD Supplemental Essays?

In the evaluation process at the University of Maryland, the supplemental essays carry significant weight. They are classified as an “important” factor, placing them alongside crucial considerations like class rank, recommendations, talent/ability, first-generation status, and state residency. Notably, these essays are weighted higher than factors such as extracurricular activities, legacy status, race/ethnicity, or work experience. Therefore, crafting thoughtful and compelling responses to the UMD supplemental prompts is essential for applicants aiming to stand out in the admissions process.

While the University of Maryland’s admission process considers various factors, the supplemental essays play a crucial role in showcasing applicants’ personalities, interests, and potential contributions to the campus community. As UMD becomes increasingly competitive, applicants must seize the opportunity presented by these essays to demonstrate their uniqueness and suitability for the university. By carefully crafting their responses, applicants can significantly enhance their chances of success in gaining admission to the University of Maryland.

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Applicants must submit all necessary documents by the posted deadline in order to be reviewed for admission. International applicants should review the International Applicant information for additional requirements.

Please read through the information below about the process and deadlines. The University of Maryland admissions team is here to help you through the application process. You may wish to first refer to our  graduate programs' frequently asked questions  and you may email  [email protected]  if you have a question not addressed there. 

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The TerpEngage application system will launch in the first week of July.

*MPH Behavioral and Community Health (online) accept international students, but the program is not eligible for I-20 or DS-2019 issuance by the University of Maryland.

** MPH Behavioral and Community Health (online), MPH Public Health Practice and Policy (online), and Master in Health Administration (online) have limited on-campus attendance and are not eligible for I-20 or DS-2019 issuance by the University of Maryland.

Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Global Health has rolling admissions.

* The MPH in Physical Activity and Certificate programs are not eligible for I-20 or DS-2019 issuance by the University of Maryland.

* MPH Programs: Behavioral and Community Health; Behavioral and Community Health (online); Biostatistics; Epidemiology; Environmental Health Sciences; Health Equity; Health Policy Analysis and Evaluation; Public Health Practice and Policy (online); MS, Environmental Health Sciences.

⁺MPH Behavioral and Community Health (online), MPH Public Health Practice and Policy (online) and Master in Health and Administration (online) programs are not eligible for I-20 or DS-2019 issuance by the University of Maryland.

Application Requirements

SPH graduate programs may have requirements in addition to those listed below. So, please check the Program-Specific Requirements section before starting your application. 

- You may apply to only one UMD SPH program per application cycle. All application requirements and documentation must be submitted electronically to the proper application system(s) SOPHAS and/or UMD Application Portal (TerpEngage).

- The GRE is  waived or optional  for all of the MPH, MHA, MA and MS degree programs. The GRE is  waived or optional  for most of our PhD programs, except the PhD in Epidemiology and PhD in Health Services Research. 

Based on your selected program, you will apply through one of the two application processes below.  SOPHAS + UMD Supplemental application programs  require that you submit two applications and  UMD TerpEngage programs  require that you submit one application. 

Programs that require SOPHAS + UMD supplemental application

• Master of Health Administration(online)
• Behavioral and Community Health (MPH online, MPH on-campus, PhD)
• Biostatistics (MPH)
• Environmental Health Sciences (MPH, MS and PhD)
• Epidemiology (MPH and PhD)
• Health Care Management (MPH)
• Health Equity (MPH)
• Health Policy Analysis and Evaluation (MPH)
• Health Services Research (PhD)
• Maternal and Child Health (PhD)
• Physical Activity (MPH online)
• Public Health Practice and Policy (MPH online)

You will create a SOPHAS application , follow their instructions to apply, and submit it along with the related application fee (check the  instructional video ).

All applicants to the programs above must also complete and submit the UMD Graduate School supplemental application , which requires demographic information, an unofficial copy of your transcripts, and a copy of your SOPHAS statement of purpose.

Note: After you submit your SOPHAS application, it will go through several phases, including submission, completion, and verification. Complete SOPHAS applications are submitted to a ve rification process that can take up to four workweeks; therefore, we recommend starting and submitting the SOPHAS application early, preferably weeks before the deadline you aim to meet.

Visit and bookmark the SOPHAS Frequently Asked Questions for information about the application and helpful tips.

Programs that require only the UMD TerpEngage application

• Couple and Family Therapy (MS)
• Community Planning and Public Health (MCP+MPH)
• Kinesiology (MA and PhD),
• Family Science (PhD)
• Biostatistics and Bioinformatics (PhD)
• Applied Epidemiology (Certificate)
• Global Health (Certificate)
• Health Data Analysis (Certificate)

The programs above have just the UMD TerpEngage application (they are not in SOPHAS). After you pay the application fee ($75) and submit your TerpEngage application, you can log into the application portal to check the status of your application. Please check program-specific requirements and the Graduate School step-by-step guide to applying .

Completed applications are reviewed by a faculty admissions committee in the respective program, and the recommendations of the committee are submitted to the dean of the Graduate School. Decisions are based on a holistic review of the applicant’s materials, including but not limited to previous academic records, personal statement, previous experience, letters of recommendation, and other elements. The dean of the Graduate School makes the final admission decision, and all students seeking to complete graduate work at the University of Maryland for degree purposes must be formally admitted to the Graduate School by the dean. Submitting a complete, qualifying application does not guarantee admission . The number of applications received from individuals qualified for graduate study in SPH programs regularly exceeds the number of applicants who can be accommodated. Spaces available in the various programs are limited according to the availability of faculty, class and program size, and other program priorities. In such cases, only the most highly qualified students are admitted.

Students seeking admission to the graduate programs at UMD School of Public Health must have already earned or be in the process of earning a 4-year bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0.

There are no specific undergraduate prerequisites for master's degree applicants, though experience working, volunteering, or researching topics related to public health are valued in the review process.

PhD programs may have additional requirements for graduate training that will be listed in the program-specific requirements section.

SOPHAS application

• Send official transcripts for ALL colleges and universities attended , whether or not credit was earned or the program was completed . These transcripts go directly to SOPHAS. Learn how to send your official transcripts to SOPHAS .
• Send a  World Education Services (WES), Inc  course-by-course transcript evaluation for all international academic credentials.

UMD TerpEngage Application and UMD Supplemental application

• Upload a PDF copy of your undergraduate degree transcript (the transcript that indicates the degree awarded) in the original language it was issued, accompanied by a literal English translation if applicable. 
• Copy of diploma/degree received listing the date it was obtained if this information is not on your transcript. If your diploma is not in English, please also submit a diploma translated into English. 
• Unofficial copies of your transcripts will suffice for the UMD Terpengage or UMD Supplemental application.  If you are accepted into the program, you will need to submit official transcripts to the UMD Graduate School (even if you submitted official transcripts to SOPHAS) .

You will be required to submit TOEFL, IELTS or PTE scores if you do not hold a degree from a U.S. institution or from one of the English-speaking countries listed on the University of Maryland Graduate School website. If you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident with international credentials, you will still be required to submit English test scores if you do not hold a degree from one of the countries on the list . Please visit the University of Maryland Graduate School website to check test scores requirements and the list of exemptions and test scores submission instructions on the SOPHAS website . 

• SOPHAS programs: SOPHAS code 5688 and UMD Graduate School  code 5814
• UMD Application only programs:  UMD Graduate School  code 5814
• SOPHAS programs: a) Self-report your IELTS scores in the  Standardized Tests  section of the SOPHAS application and include your TRF number. This must be listed for your official scores to be matched to your application b)  submit official scores to the UMD Graduate School electronic accounts listed on the Graduate School Website
• UMD Application only programs:  submit official scores to the UMD Graduate School electronic accounts listed on the Graduate School Website
• SOPHAS programs: please list the test scores in the proper section and upload a PDF copy of the official results in the “Optional documents - Standardized Test Score Reports” section and submit official scores to the UMD Graduate School electronic accounts listed on the Graduate School Website

The three letters of recommendation(LOR) are submitted by the recommenders themselves. In the recommendation section in SOPHAS or in TerpEngage, you will enter the name and email address of each recommender and send them an invitation. Recommenders will then receive an automated invitation to complete the recommendation. Please note that if you are applying to a SOPHAS program, recommendations will be uploaded only to the SOPHAS application.

Upload a PDF copy of your current resume or curriculum vitae.

Your statement of purpose (SOP) should be approximately 2 double-spaced pages. Your statement should address your:

• Personal, academic and professional background that led you to public health
• Interest in the specific department and degree/concentration you are applying to
• Public health topics of interest
• How this degree will help you to achieve your long-term career goals 

If you are submitting your application to a SOPHAS program, you will be required to submit a second copy of the SOPHAS SOP to your UMD Supplemental application.

International applicants should follow the application process for the program they are applying to and review the requirements and exemptions for international applicants set by the University of Maryland Graduate School . International applicants are also encouraged to explore the International Students and Scholars Services (ISSS) office and contact them with related questions. Note that American citizens and permanent residents who have foreign credentials should follow the requirements established for foreign degree holders but can apply by domestic deadlines. 

Note about the Online MPH in Behavioral and Community Health and Online MPH in Physical Activity programs: The University does not issue an I-20 or DC-2019 as these programs are 100% online. International applicants are eligible to apply and must follow the  UMD Graduate School International Admissions instructions.

Note about the Online MHA, the Online MPH Public Health Practice and Policy : International applicants requiring an I-20 are not eligible to apply as these mostly online programs have a mandatory face-to-face element. Otherwise, international applicants already in the U.S. who are permitted to enroll in such studies must follow the UMD Graduate School International Admissions instructions.

• You must upload a WES course-by-course US equivalency report in your SOPHAS application. The WES report must be uploaded to your application by the application deadline for the application to be considered complete. Do not send foreign transcripts to SOPHAS or the UMD School of Public Health, including those printed in English or translated into English; they will be discarded. 
• Do not send WES reports to the UMD School of Public Health of the UMD Graduate School; they will be discarded. 
• Read through the international application transcripts section in SOPHAS .

UMD TerpEngage and Supplemental Application Residency Questionnaire

• On the Graduate School online application, you should note the type of visa you currently hold or will need to hold to study at the University of Maryland. In addition, you will need to submit copies of any visa or Permanent Resident Card you might possess. Visit the ISSS website to learn more about the student visa process . 
• A transcript/mark sheet in the original language must be uploaded into the online application. If your transcript is not in English, please also upload a transcript/mark sheet translated into English.
• You must upload a copy of your diploma/degree received if this information is not listed on your transcript. If your diploma is not in English, please also submit a diploma translated into English. 
• Translations you submit to the UMD TerpEngage and UMD Supplemental application should be literal, and actual names of all degrees, diplomas, and certificates must appear in the translation. If you are in need of a translation service, a list of English translation companies can be found on this website .

Evidence of English Language Proficiency

You must submit test scores to both SOPHAS and UMD Supplemental applications if you are applying to a program that requires a SOPHAS application.

• To submit TOEFL scores to SOPHAS using the code 5688.
• To submit IELTS you will  self-report your IELTS scores in the  Standardized Tests  section of the SOPHAS application and include your TRF number. This must be listed for your official scores to be matched to your application.
• PTE scores submission to SOPHAS, please list the test scores in the proper section and upload a PDF copy of the official results in the “Optional documents - Standardized Test Score Reports” section.

UMD TerpEngage and UMD Supplemental Application

• To submit  TOEFL scores to the UMD Graduate School, please use the reporting code 5814.
• PTE test takers can send their score reports to the University of Maryland through their Pearson Account
• IELTS test takers should contact their IELTS test center directly to request electronic test scores be sent to the following IELTS e-download account:

University of Maryland - The Graduate School The Graduate School 2123 Lee Building College Park Maryland, 20742

Visit the Graduate School to learn more about the English language proficiency requirements .

Diversity Statement

The School of Public Health is committed to creating an educational and work environment that is rich in diversity, inclusive, and supportive of all students, faculty, and staff.  We understand that a school energized by diverse perspectives and experiences provides a powerful educational benefit and enhances our research and community service. We acknowledge and celebrate diversity in race/ethnicity, gender, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical and learning abilities, socioeconomic status, national origin, veteran status, and other areas of difference. 

Program-Specific Requirements

Program-specific requirements may include writing samples, pre-requisite courses or degrees, test scores, etc. Our MPH programs require at least one math or statistics undergraduate course.

All links below refer to each program's UMD Graduate Catalog admission requirements.

Master’s Programs

MA, Kinesiology

MPH, Behavioral and Community Health

MPH, Behavioral and Community Health (Online)

MPH, Biostatistics

MPH, Environmental Health Sciences

MPH, Epidemiology

MPH, Health Care Management

MPH, Health Equity

MPH, Health Policy Analysis and Evaluation

MPH, Public Health Practice and Policy (Online)

MPH, Physical Activity (Online)

MHA, Masters of Health Administration (Online)

MS, Couple and Family Therapy

MS, Environmental Health Sciences

MHA + Doctor of Medicine

MPH + Master of Community Planning

Doctoral Programs

PhD, Behavioral and Community Health

PhD, Biostatistics & Bioinformatics

PhD, Environmental Health Sciences

PhD, Epidemiology

PhD, Family Science

PhD, Health Services Research

PhD, Kinesiology

PhD, Maternal and Child Health

Post-Baccalaureate Certificates

Certificate in Applied Epidemiology

Certificate in Global Health

Certificate in Health Data Analysis

SPH Graduate Admissions [email protected]

• Request Info
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Want more information about our majors?

Want to learn more about life as a Terp?

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Need more information on cost of attendance at UMD, financing your education and merit scholarships?

Update to Enrollment Confirmation Deadline

Due to the shifted FAFSA 2024-2025 timeline; 

1. We have extended our 2024-25 FAFSA filing priority deadline   to April 1, 2024 .

2. We have extended our freshmen Fall 2024 enrollment confirmation deadline   to May 15, 2024

Admission Review Process & Factors

Our admission process has one mission: to identify applicants, who as individuals and as a group, will enrich and benefit from the campus learning environment and the entire student body.

Our admission committee is comprised of a team of professionals who undertake an individualized, rigorous and holistic review of each application, assessing academic merit, achievements and potential in the context of the opportunities and challenges the student faced.

We are charged with admitting and enrolling the most talented, diverse and interesting class possible. With such a large and strong pool of students to review, our task is daunting—but the results are impressive. Our students are smart, involved, curious and innovative.

The University of Maryland admission review process is guided by the principles outlined in the Statement of the Philosophy of Undergraduate Admissions . In keeping with this philosophy, the admission review factors listed above will allow the Admission Committee to identify those applicants, who as individuals and as a group, will enrich and benefit from the campus learning environment, and thus benefit the entire student body.

The undergraduate admissions process is rigorous and individualized. As the university must make fine distinctions among large numbers of highly qualified applicants, the ability to consistently assess all information presented in the application becomes increasingly important. Therefore, the university employs a holistic review process that engages the expertise of professional educators whose judgments—based upon consideration of each applicant’s credentials measured by all admissions criteria—build an entering class that will best complement the existing student body and meet the university’s mission objectives.

In this context, academic merit is assessed on the basis of each applicant’s achievements and potential in a broad range of academic categories, as influenced by the opportunities and challenges faced by the applicant. These categories include:

• Educational Performance
• Potential for College Success
• Potential to Promote Beneficial Educational Outcomes and to Contribute to Campus and Community Life
• Students’ Persistence and Commitment to Educational Success.

At UMD, we value all of your strengths and talents. We know there is more to you than grades and SAT scores. While they are important, we also want to know about your interests and background and what makes you unique. We review all application components and our thorough review process considers more than 24 factors.

Each category of the holistic review is assessed by a combination of quantitative and qualitative factors. These factors are flexibly applied, so the listing does not reflect order of importance.

• High school achievement
• Grades in academic subjects
• Progression of performance
• Breadth of life experiences
• Geographic origin
• SAT I or ACT scores*
• Work experience
• Recognition of special achievements
• Extenuating circumstances
• Socio-economic background
• Written expression of ideas (as demonstrated in the essay)
• Rank in class (actual or percentile)
• Extracurricular activities
• Special talents or skills
• Community involvement
• Community service
• Demonstrated leadership
• Learning differences
• Quality of coursework
• Residency status
• Family educational background
• Academic endeavors outside of the classroom
• English as a second language/Language spoken at home

*UMD has decided to extend its practice to make SAT and ACT scores optional through to the Spring and Fall 2025 application cycles. For more information please review our Application FAQs.

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What’s Covered:

How hard is it to get into university of maryland, average academic profile of accepted university of maryland students, what is the university of maryland looking for, how to improve your chances of getting into the university of maryland .

The University of Maryland is a public research university in College Park, Maryland. Founded in 1856, it is the largest university in the state as well as in the Washington metropolitan area, with more than 40,700 students and 12 schools and colleges. A leader in research, entrepreneurship, and innovation, UMD is known for its abundance of research opportunities for undergraduates. First year students have the chance to join the FIRE program, a faculty-mentored research experience that helps drive student research, develops career readiness, and equalizes opportunity. 

For the 2019–2020 admissions cycle, the University of Maryland received 32,211 applicants, of which 16,437 were accepted. This means that last year, UMD’s acceptance rate was 51% , making it an unselective school. UMD does not have a binding early decision application option, but it does have a non-binding early action option .  

Want to get a better idea of your personal chances of admission into the University of Maryland? Our free chancing calculator can help you better understand your chances of acceptance into any college. By taking into account multiple elements of your profile, including your grades, test scores, extracurriculars, and more, we’ll estimate your odds of acceptance, and give you tips on improving your profile! 

The average high school GPA of UMD’s Class of 2024 was 4.36. 93.6% had a GPA of 4.0 . 1.4% had a GPA below 3.0.  

Of the 40% of UMD’s class of 2024 who submitted class rank, 73% graduated in the top 10% of their high school class, and 89% graduated in the top 25%. 98% graduated in the top half. 

While standardized test scores are normally required for applicants, University of Maryland is test-optional for students applying for the Spring or Fall semesters of 2022 and 2023. Of the students who enrolled in Fall 2020, the top 25% of students scored above a 1460 on the SAT , with the average student scoring 1375. For the students who submitted ACT scores, the top 25% scored a bove a 34, with the average student scoring a 32 . 

University of Maryland uses a holistic process to evaluate applications. The school’s thorough review process considers 26 factors , including progression of performance, socio-economic background, written expression of ideas, learning differences, and many more. 

If you are considering applying to UMD, it will be useful to know that some majors are Limited Enrollment Majors : majors with limited space which are more competitive. UMD will ask you to list your preferred majors in your application. However, UMD is major-blind; you will be reviewed for admissibility to the university and then, if needed, for admission to their major of choice. 

How the University of Maryland Evaluates Applications

According to their 2020-2021 Common Data Set, the University of Maryland considers the following factors “very important” :

• Course rigor
• Academic GPA
• Standardized test scores

These factors are “important” :

• Application essay
• Recommendation letters
• Talent/ability
• First generation
• State residency 

These are “considered” :

• Extracurricular activities
• Character/personal qualities
• Alumni/ae relation
• Geographical residence
• Racial/ethnic status
• Volunteer work
• Work experience 

And these are “not considered” :

• Religious affiliation/commitment
• Level of applicant’s interest 

Discover your chances at hundreds of schools

Our free chancing engine takes into account your history, background, test scores, and extracurricular activities to show you your real chances of admission—and how to improve them.

1. Aim for all A’s while taking the most challenging classes available

As the average GPA of enrolled UMD students last year was a 4.36, in order to be a competitive candidate, you should aim to get all A’s. Though a 4.36 GPA may be intimidating, many of these students are likely taking advanced honors, AP, or IB classes, which gives them a weighted GPA. To show that you have challenged yourself, try to take honors, AP, or IB classes. 

If your GPA is lower, and you’re still a freshman or sophomore in your high school, check out our tips for increasing your GPA . If you’re a junior or senior, it will be harder to increase your GPA, so the easiest way to increase your Academic Index is to get a higher test score.

2. Report your SAT scores if above 1460, and ACT if above 34

While standardized test scores are optional for students applying for 2022 and 2023 enrollment, University of Maryland will still consider your test scores if you submit them. For the next two years, students who do not submit test scores will not be at a disadvantage from those who do. That being said, a high standardized test score is a valuable way to display your academic aptitude in addition to your transcript. If you do take the SAT or ACT and score in the 75th percentile of UMD students, which is a 1460 on the SAT or a 34 on the ACT, reporting your scores will likely give you a boost.

To improve your SAT/ACT score, check out these free CollegeVine resources:

• How to Get a Perfect 1600 Score on the SAT
• How to Get a Perfect 36 Score on the ACT
• More SAT Info and Tips
• More ACT Info and Tips

3. Highlight your academic talents and abilities and out-of-classroom achievements  

The University of Maryland has a history of fostering trailblazers, and today is still a national research powerhouse. While UMD will want to see your extracurricular activities, it is most prominently interested in accomplishments that demonstrate particular academic talents and abilities, and how you have applied your skills outside of the classroom. If you are a senior, highlight any awards or recognition you’ve earned, research you’ve done alongside a high school teacher or family member, as well as any notable leadership positions. If you’re a junior, sophomore, or freshman, continue working on pursuing any intellectual interests you have, and aim to win local or regional awards or recognition.  

4. Ask the right teachers for recommendation letters

UMD requires two letters of recommendation: one from a teacher, and one letter from a school counselor. Letters of recommendation should come from teachers who know you the best and who can speak positively of your character and abilities. Your letters of recommendation will show admissions officers what kind of student and peer you are. Take some time to think about which teacher will write you the most promising recommendation letter, and take a look at tips from CollegeVine to help guide you through the process. 

5. Apply early action 

Though the University of Maryland doesn’t have early decision, it encourages students to apply early action. Students who apply by the early action November 1 deadline receive priority consideration for admission, merit-based scholarships, and special programs. Since your application won’t be binding, applying early action is a great way to get your foot in the door early. 

How to Apply to the University of Maryland 

Planning on applying to UMD? Here are some dates to keep in mind for the 2021–2022 application cycle for first-year students applying for fall enrollment. 

Application Requirements

The University of Maryland accepts applications through the Common Application and the Coalition Application. To apply, you will need the following materials:

• All parts of your Common or Coalition Application, including the essay and non-refundable application fee (option to request fee waiver) 
• Official high school transcript
• Two letters of recommendation (one from a counselor and one from a teacher) 
• SAT or ACT scores (optional for 2022 and 2023 enrollment)
• Extracurricular activities list (including any awards, work experience, research opportunities, or family involvement) 
• School of Music application (for applicants to the School of Music only) 

Learn more about the University of Maryland 

What does it cost to attend The University of Maryland, College Park?

How to Write the University of Maryland College Park Essays 2021-2022

Student Life at Big 10 Schools: What It’s Really Like

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

Parents, can you please let me know information on some or all of below questions:

If parents or family is not qualified for financial aid, then is FAFSA needed? can you please let me know if you filled out a FAFSA form for Banneker Key scholarship?

Does UMD have supplemental essays? D says she could not find it on coalition app or on their website. Does UMD have any supplemental essays or honors essays?

for one of the scholarships (not Banneker Key), the website says they will consider following “academic achievement, extracurricular activities, awards, honors, and an essay.” https://admissions.umd.edu/finance/freshman-merit-scholarships

can you please let me know how to find that essay topic for this scholarship?

@learning19

It’s a;ways good to fill out the FAFSA, even if you are not qualified for financial aid, because you never know your family’s situation may change over the next several years.

UMD does require an essay. Here is a list of essay questions that I found on the following link

https://admissions.umd.edu/apply/application-faqs/essay-questions

Instructions

Please answer one of the following essay questions in your application. Make sure to include the question itself at the start of your essay. Your essay should be no more than 550 words; the question will not be included in the essay total word count. 1.Tell a story from your life, describing an experience that either demonstrates your character or helped to shape it. 2.Describe a time when you made a meaningful contribution to others in which the greater good was your focus. Discuss the challenges and rewards of making your contribution. 3.Has there been a time when you’ve had a long-cherished or accepted belief challenged? How did you respond? How did the challenge affect your beliefs? 4.What is the hardest part of being a teenager now? What’s the best part? What advice would you give a younger sibling or friend (assuming they would listen to you)? 5.Submit an essay on a topic of your choice.

These may be last year’s questions. The questions should appear at some point when you are filling out the Coalition App. I cannot give more detail, since the Coalition App was not in use when my D applied back in 2014. UMD also had several short answer questions back then.

• As far as I know, none of the Merit Scholarships require an additional essay and none of the Special Programs (Honors, Scholars, etc.) require an additional essay.

It is Very Important to submit you application by the Priority Deadline (Nov !) to be considered for Merit Scholarships and Special Programs.

@SoofDad , Thank you for the reply.

for #2 , Those 5 essay options exactly match the coalition app essay options.

Our high school guidance counselor asked us not to work on coalition app for the time being. So do not know if there are any short answer questions or supplementary questions in the coalition app this year.

It would be very helpful if anyone who has already started or completed coalition app can confirm if there are any short answer questions.

As an aside, my daughter hated using the coalition app and it was not as user friendly as the common app. Unfortunately UMD was the only school she applied to not on the common app. She especially had trouble getting the LORs uploaded (or the teachers did) so leave yourself enough time if there are glitches.

I thought there was a supplemental essay last year but don’t remember (and my daughter is already away at school so I can’t ask her).

FWIW, we opted not to fill out the FAFSA. I ran a ton of NPC and knew we’d qualify for zero aid anywhere and many of the schools dd applied to were need aware.

There are short answer questions (160 words) for the UMD application. They are on the Coalition App. If I could travel anywhere, I would go… The most interesting fact I learned from research was… In addition to my major, my academic interests include… My favorite thing about last Wednesday was… Something you might not know about me is…

@firstwavemom ,

Thank you so much for posting the essay questions. Are these 5 essay questions mandatory or optional? how many are students required to write (is it 2 out of 5 or something like that)

are these questions for a specific major or common questions for all majors?

are there any additional questions for honors?

I apologize for asking for this information. This is mainly because the school as asked us to stop using coalition app. My kid already created an account and added colleges, but received an email from school to stop working on coalition app.

@learning19 The questions, I believe, were optional (2 years ago, they were labeled as “supplementary questions” on UMD’s own application portal). But, if you’re given the option to answer them, why wouldn’t you?

You should answer all of them. I’ve heard that the short answer questions help UMD admissions get a better sense of what kind of person you are and that can influence what programs you get into, scholarships, etc. There’s no separate or individual application/questions/etc for Honors/Scholars/FIRE/majors/any other program.

Let me know if you have any other questions!

I am not sure the reason why your school counselor asked you to stop working on coalition. My D is the freshman at UMD this year. I recall the coalition or the common apps became live starting August 1. What we did was to create an account and fill out the profile (personal info) areas, as well as look at the prompt questions before the end of summer last year. She would work on the essay offline until she was ready to copy and paste onto the coalition app. To her, it was helpful to know what the essay questions and the requirements were before working on them. If your child wants to be considered for any merit based scholarship, make sure you apply by Nov. 1. No additional essays required for merit scholarship consideration. Good luck.

I do not think they are optional. Your child should answer all of them since they are not long. I don’t think s/he needs to spend a lot of time on them. I agree with @whenyoubelieve that the answers are meant to give the AOs insight into the applicant’s personality and interests.

The MD responses are limited to 160 characters not words, not including spaces. Should be relatively painless.

You don’t have to have long, elaborate answers to all of the questions either. In my son’s year, one prompt was something like “something you didn’t expect from volunteering was” and his answer was “money” (that’s it, one word). Another was something about a day of the week, and his answer was “I got my driver’s license.” A friend told me to a prompt like “I feel empowered (or invincible?) when” her daughter’s answer was “I eat chocolate.”

Thank you all parents for answering questions. to all who asked why applying with coalition app was stalled earlier: our teachers were not able to upload recommendations using coalition app due to technical difficulties in app…they are now using naviance to send the recommendations.

Can someone let me know the following doubts:

once the coalition app shows complete status of application, should student create an UMD account or contact undergraduate admissions to see if anything is pending?

so far there is no email from UMD about portal where application decision can be checked.

Where and how does UMD announce about application decision?

DD received an email saying to check the coalition app website at a certain time to see the admission decision. It was horrible because it took over an hour to connect with the website. (I’m sure the system was overwhelmed with all the applicants checking). Then it took another hour to connect to the scholars program site where she was also accepted. She was very underwhelmed and frustrated with the coalition app in general and the communication with UMD.

I honestly don’t remember if she had portal for UMD.

PS Her recommenders also had issues uploading the LORs.

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University of Maryland 2020-21 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

Regular Decision: 

University of Maryland 2020-21 Application Essay Question Explanations

The Requirements: 4 short answers of 160 characters

Supplemental Essay Type(s): Short Answer , Additional Information  

“At the University of Maryland, we encourage our students to go beyond the classroom to engage in opportunities that further both their academic and personal growth.”

The University of Maryland application is all about budgeting your words and energy. With a list of rapidfire short answer questions at the heart of this supplement, prepare to make every character count!

To tell us more about yourself, please complete the following sentences using only the space provided. (160 characters)

* if i could travel anywhere, i would go to…, * the most interesting fact i ever learned from research was…, * in addition to my major, my academic interests include…, * my favorite thing about last thursday was…, * something you might not know about me is….

The key to nailing this section is brainstorming. When you see fill-in-the-blanks like these, it’s easy to assume that admissions is looking for a specific response. To avoid falling into this trap, free your mind and spend a few minutes jotting down as many things as you can think of for each sentence. Literally set a timer and force yourself to keep your pencil moving (or fingers tapping) for the entire time. No idea is too silly. The more you go with your gut, the more likely you are to come up with a unique and truly personal answer, and in the end, that’s really what admissions is looking for. Short answers like these (less than a tweet!) present a great opportunity for you to show off your creativity, ingenuity, and sense of humor. When curating your brainstormed ideas, aim for breadth. If you’ve always wanted to travel to Easter Island to measure the moai (🗿) and perform engineering experiments, then your interesting fact had better not be located anywhere near the Pacific Ocean. As with any other essay type, each micro answer should tell admissions something new.

Please include any additional information you would like to provide if extenuating circumstances have affected your performance or extracurricular activities. This information is only necessary if these circumstances have not been discussed in any other part of your application. Maximum 100 words.

Additional info essays like this one are the only ones we will ever consider truly optional. Proceed with extreme caution if you are considering writing one. Unlike any other prompt, this is not your one last shot to tell admissions a great story; it is a tool for students who have faced uniquely challenging hardships that have affected their academic performance or extracurricular involvement. It can allow you to reclaim control over a situation that may have, at one time, felt like it was controlling you: illness, grief, financial hardship. If this sounds like you, then we strongly encourage you to write this essay so that admissions has every side of the story. Otherwise, we’d advise you to skip it. A trivial story could end up annoying your application reader.

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University of Maryland, Baltimore County | UMBC

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Want to see your chances of admission at University of Maryland, Baltimore County | UMBC?

We take every aspect of your personal profile into consideration when calculating your admissions chances.

University of Maryland, Baltimore County | UMBC’s 2023-24 Essay Prompts

Honors college short response.

What are your principal areas of academic interest? What are your career goals? (25-250 words)

What are your areas of interest and involvement in and outside of school? (25-250 words)

What service and leadership experience have you engaged in through school or the community? (25-250 words)

Select-A-Prompt Essay

In reviewing applications, the Honors College places special emphasis on the written material submitted. The strength of the high school curriculum and GPA are also very important. First-year students who wish to apply to the Honors College should have a high school GPA of 3.5 or better. Please note that for Fall 2023 applicants, the Honors College is following UMBC‘s test-optional approach to admissions, to provide students the opportunity to apply with or without standardized test scores. Our admissions process is holistic, and you will not be penalized if you apply without submitting test scores.

Please select one of the following prompts to address:

The Constitution of the United States currently has 27 amendments. What should be the 28th Amendment and why?

What historical event do you wish you could witness? Please explain why you chose this event.

Common App Personal Essay

The essay demonstrates your ability to write clearly and concisely on a selected topic and helps you distinguish yourself in your own voice. What do you want the readers of your application to know about you apart from courses, grades, and test scores? Choose the option that best helps you answer that question and write an essay of no more than 650 words, using the prompt to inspire and structure your response. Remember: 650 words is your limit, not your goal. Use the full range if you need it, but don‘t feel obligated to do so.

Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.

The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?

Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?

Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?

Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.

Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?

Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you‘ve already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

What will first-time readers think of your college essay?