The University of Southern Maine (USM) offers a variety of scholarships for the 2025–2026 academic year to support both undergraduate and graduate students in their academic pursuits. The University of Southern Maine Scholarship aim to recognize academic excellence, leadership qualities, and financial need.
For international undergraduate students, the University of Southern Maine Scholarship is up to $11,000, and for graduate students at USM, scholarships are awarded in variable amounts of up to $3,000 per academic year. Application deadlines vary depending on the specific scholarship;
For Fall: May 1, 2025,
For Spring (2026): Applications are accepted September 1 – October 31, 2025
University/Institution Details:
- Name: University of Southern Maine
- Location: Portland, Gorham, and Lewiston, Maine, USA
- Ranking: USM is recognized for its commitment to student success and community engagement.
- Programs Offered: USM provides a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines.
- Program Duration: Undergraduate programs typically span four years, while graduate program durations vary by field of study.
Study Areas:
USM offers diverse study areas, including but not limited to:
- Arts and Humanities
- Business
- Education
- Engineering
- Health Sciences
- Public Service
- Science and Technology
University of Southern Maine Scholarship Benefits:
Scholarship benefits vary by award but may include:
For International Undergraduate Student
Scholarships will be renewable (4 years for first year students and 3 years for transfer students) provided the recipient maintains the required minimum GPA.
| Name of Scholarship | GPA Requirement | Amount | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| USM Scholar | 2.75-2.99 High School GPA | $7,000/year | 1st year students only |
| Dirigo Scholar | 3.0-3.49 High School GPA | $11,000/year | 1st year students only |
| Presidential Scholar | 3.5 + High School GPA | $11,000/year | 1st year students only |
| Presidential Recognition Award | 3.5 + High School GPA | One time $2,000 award | 1st year students only |
| Presidential Scholar Transfer Award | Cumulative College GPA of at least a 3.5+ | $9,000/year | Transfer Students |
Graduate Student Scholarships
- Variable amounts up to $3,000
Benefits Not Included:
Typically, scholarships do not cover:
- Room and board
- Personal expenses
- Travel costs
Eligibilities for University of Southern Maine Scholarship:
For Undergraduate:
- Students who already have a Bachelor’s degree or the equivalent of a U.S. Bachelor’s degree are not eligible for the following scholarships.
- $1,000/year toward the cost of on campus housing
- To be eligible student must have indicated an interest in on campus housing at the time of appliation.
For Graduate:
- Must be enrolled in a master’s or doctoral program at USM
- Accelerated Pathway students must be officially in the graduate program
- Must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher (first-semester students with 0.0 GPA can apply)
- Must take at least 6 graduate credits per semester
- U.S. citizens must complete the FAFSA (not required for non-U.S. citizens)
- Cannot be a University of Maine System employee
- Student workers and Graduate Assistants can apply
Required Documents:
Commonly required documents include:
- Completed scholarship application form
- Academic transcripts
- Personal statement or essay
- Letters of recommendation
- Proof of financial need (if applicable)
University of Southern Maine Scholarship Application Process:
- Research Scholarships: Identify scholarships for which you are eligible.
- Prepare Documents: Gather all required documents.
- Complete Application: Fill out the application forms accurately.
- Submit Application: Ensure all materials are submitted before the deadline.
- Follow Up: Confirm receipt of your application and await notification.
Tips for a Successful Application:
- Start Early: Give yourself ample time to prepare your application.
- Tailor Your Application: Customize your personal statement to align with the scholarship’s objectives.
- Proofread: Ensure your application is free from errors.
- Seek Feedback: Have mentors or advisors review your application.
- Highlight Achievements: Emphasize experiences that demonstrate your qualifications.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students :
- Housing (rent and utilities): $500 – $800
- Food and groceries: $200 – $350
- Transportation (public transit or car): $50 – $100
- Health insurance: $100 – $200
- Personal expenses (clothing, entertainment, phone): $100 – $200
- Books and supplies: $50 – $100
Total Estimated Monthly Cost: $1,000 – $1,500
Why Choose This Opportunity?
Pursuing a scholarship at USM not only provides financial assistance but also offers access to quality education, diverse programs, and a supportive community, all within a vibrant cultural setting.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Are international students eligible for scholarships at USM?
- Yes, USM offers scholarships that international students may be eligible to apply for.
- How can I find scholarships specific to my field of study?
- Visit the official USM scholarships page and filter scholarships by your program or department.
- Can I apply for multiple scholarships at USM?
- Yes, students are encouraged to apply for all scholarships for which they meet the eligibility criteria.
- What should I include in my personal statement?
- Discuss your academic achievements, career goals, and how the scholarship will help you attain them.
- When will I be notified about the scholarship decision?
- Notification timelines vary; refer to the specific scholarship details for information on decision dates.
Official Link for More Details and Application:
For comprehensive information on available scholarships and application procedures, please visit USM’s Student Financial Services page
