UMass Dartmouth Admissions 2026: Requirements & Deadlines

Latest Update:  The I-20 request deadline for international students is August 1, 2025. Spring 2026 applications will open on December 1, 2025.

The University of Massachusetts Dartmouth (UMassD) offers over 90 undergraduate programs across five colleges, including engineering, business, and nursing. The acceptance rate is 92%, with a first-year student GPA average of 3.4. 

The university operates on a rolling admissions basis, with priority deadlines for Fall 2025. The priority application deadline is July 15, 2025, and the enrollment deposit is due by August 1, 2025. Notably, UMass Dartmouth admission is 100% test-optional; however, submitting SAT scores of 1080 or higher may enhance scholarship opportunities.

So, if you are planning to study in the US in 2025, here are some quick facts about UMass Dartmouth:

Feature	Details
Established	1895 (originally as New Bedford Textile School)
Type of University	Public Research University
Campuses	Main campus in Dartmouth, Massachusetts; SMAST in New Bedford; UMass Law in Dartmouth
Annual Tuition Fees (International)	Postgraduate: $30,589/year (~INR 26.2L); Undergraduate: $33,782/year (~INR 28.9L)
Top Programs	Master's in Business Administration (MBA) MS in Nursing MS in Biomedical Engineering MS in Civil Engineering MS in Computer Science
Duration of Course	Graduate: 1-2 years (MS), 2-3 years (MFA) Undergraduate: 4 years Doctoral: 4-6 years
Ranking (2025)	National Rank: #244 (U.S. News Rankings)
Acceptance Rate	Approximately 92%
Enrollment	7,759 students: 5,602 undergraduates, 2,157 graduate students
Student-Faculty Ratio	16:1
Demography	Graduate: 51% women, 49% men Undergraduate: 50% women, 50% men International Students: 10%
Degrees Offered	Bachelor's Master's Doctoral Certificates

Now that you know the basics of UMass Dartmouth, let's explore the important dates and deadlines for each application period.

UMass Dartmouth Admission Dates 2025

For students applying for the Fall intake, the priority deadline for consideration for university assistantships or fellowships is generally January 15 each year. The deadline for those applying for the Spring intake is usually October 1 each year. Understanding the application timelines is crucial for international students joining UMass Dartmouth.

Currently, you can apply for the fall intake 2025 at UMass Dartmouth. Let’s explore what’s in it for you.

Fall Intake 2025

UMass Dartmouth's undergraduate programs have precise deadlines for those looking to start in Fall 2025. You need to submit your application by July 15, 2025, and pay your enrollment deposit by August 1, 2025. 

Beginning in the Fall intake allows students to engage fully in academic courses and extracurricular activities from the outset of their university experience.

The detailed table below breaks down all the important dates, including I-20 requests, move-in days, and class start dates.

Event	Date	Details
Application Deadline	July 15, 2025	The final date is to submit applications for international first-year students.
Enrollment Deposit Due	August 1, 2025	A non-refundable deposit is required to secure a spot.
I-20 Request Deadline	August 1, 2025	Last day to request the I-20 form for visa processing.
Transfer Application Deadline	August 4, 2025	Deadline for international students transferring from within the U.S.
Transfer I-20 Request Deadline	August 19, 2025	The last day to request an I-20 for transfer students is the
Orientation Dates	August 28–29, 2025	Mandatory orientation for international students.
Move-in Day	August 31, 2025	Official move-in day for residential students.
Classes Begin	September 3, 2025	Start of the Fall semester classes.

Note: These dates are subject to change; always refer to the official UMass Dartmouth Admissions website for the most current information.

After exploring the Fall 2025 options, let's look at the Spring 2025 intake, which offers opportunities for international students.

Spring Intake 2025

Spring intake offers another entry point for international undergraduates and graduates. The application deadline at UMass Dartmouth for first-year students is December 1, 2024 (closed), with enrollment deposits due by December 15, 2024 (closed). This intake typically experiences less competition, allowing for a more focused application process.

Check the table below for a clear breakdown of the deadlines for both international first-year applicants and transfers.

Event	Date	Details
Application Deadline	December 1, 2024 (Closed)	The final date is to submit applications for international first-year students.
Enrollment Deposit Due	December 15, 2024 (Closed)	A non-refundable deposit is required to secure a spot.
I-20 Request Deadline	December 12, 2024 (Closed)	Last day to request the I-20 form for visa processing.
Transfer Application Deadline	December 12, 2024 (Closed)	Deadline for international students transferring from within the U.S.
Transfer I-20 Request Deadline	January 9, 2025 (Closed)	The last day to request an I-20 for transfer students is the
Orientation Dates	January 13–14, 2025 (Closed)	Mandatory orientation for international students.
Move-in Day	January 16, 2025 (Closed)	Official move-in day for residential students.
Classes Begin	January 20, 2025 (Closed)	Start of the Spring semester classes.

Note: Follow the official UMass Dartmouth Admissions website for any latest updates for the upcoming spring intake.

If Spring isn't your preferred start time, the online summer intake might be your best bet, with more extensive options for undergraduate and graduate programs.

Summer Intake 2025

UMass Dartmouth does not offer a traditional summer intake for undergraduate programs or internships, only online courses. The university primarily admits students for the Fall and Spring semesters.  

For instance, the deadline for Summer 2025 applications for specific graduate programs is typically April 1 (closed). Although UMass Dartmouth's online summer sessions allow you to study from anywhere, wherever works best for you.

However, some graduate programs may have summer start options. It's essential to check the specific program's requirements and deadlines. 

Now, let's move on to the most crucial part, the admission process at UMass Dartmouth.

UMass Dartmouth Admission Process

The UMass Dartmouth admission process involves several steps, from selecting your application platform to submitting required documents and meeting key deadlines. The application fee is $60 (INR 5K) for most students and $75 (INR 6.4K) for nursing applicants. 

Let's go over each step in detail so you can submit a complete and timely application.

Step 1: Apply

UMass Dartmouth offers two primary application platforms.

• Common Application: Recommended for first-year applicants.
• UMassD Application: Available for both first-year and transfer students
• Application Deadlines:
  • Spring: December 1, 2024 (Closed)
  • Fall: July 15, 2025
  • Rolling admissions: Applications are reviewed as completed, and decisions are made as soon as possible. Some competitive programs, such as nursing, biology, and engineering, encourage early applications.
• Age Requirement: Applicants under 16 years old at the start of the academic year must live with a custodial parent or legal guardian, but are not eligible for on-campus housing. Full-time students aged 17 or older are eligible for housing.

Step 2: Submit Transcripts

Submit your official secondary and/or post-secondary academic transcripts, translated into English by a certified professional.

• GPA Requirement: Minimum GPA of 2.5.
• Submission: Transcripts must be uploaded by your school counselor via the Common Application or emailed to international@admissions.umassd.edu.

Step 3: English Language Proficiency

If English is not your first language, you must demonstrate your language proficiency levels. You can submit scores from any of the following tests:

• TOEFL: 79
• IELTS: 6.0+
• Cambridge English: B2 First, C1 Advanced, or C2 Proficiency (176+)
• Duolingo: 105 or more
• TOEFL Essential: 9.0 or more
• PTE: 53 or more
• ELS 112 level

Note: Official test scores must be sent directly from the testing agency. If you've already taken the test, you can request the official scores from organizations like ACT, TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, or PTE.

Exceptions:

• You may waive this requirement if your institution teaches in English (e.g., IB curriculum, American School, Cambridge IGCSE, or GCE A-levels).

Step 4: Optional Documents

Deadlines may differ based on the intake and program, but the supporting documents and study visa requirements remain consistent across all categories. While not required, these documents may strengthen your application:

• SAT/ACT Scores: UMass Dartmouth is test-optional. However, submitting scores of 1080+ for the SAT or 22+ for the ACT (higher for competitive programs like nursing and engineering) is recommended.
• Letter of Recommendation: Should come from either a teacher or a school counselor. 2 LORs are highly recommended for competitive programs.
• Personal Essay: Up to 650 words, demonstrating your leadership, community service, work experiences, or other significant achievements.

Note: If applying for a College of Visual & Performing Arts program, submit a portfolio or complete a music audition.

Step 5: Mailing Materials

If you are mailing documents, include your name and student ID (provided after you apply) on each item.

• Mail to:

Undergraduate Admissions Office University of Massachusetts Dartmouth 285 Old Westport Road Dartmouth, MA 02747-2300

Step 6: Apply for a Visa and I-20

Once accepted, you will need an I-20 form for your student visa application. The I-20 confirms your acceptance and certifies that you have sufficient financial resources to support your studies in the U.S.

• Financial Documents: To apply for the I-20, you must provide financial proof showing a minimum of USD 53,000 (INR 45.3 L) in available funds. This can include bank statements, financial guarantees, or a loan letter.
  • The scholarship amount can be deducted from this balance if you are awarded financial aid.
  • Affidavit of Support: You must also submit an affidavit confirming that the financial support matches or exceeds the required amount.
• I-20 Submission: Use the I-20 form to apply for a student visa at your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

Step 7: Confirm Enrollment and Submit Final Documents

Once admitted, confirm your enrollment by submitting a non-refundable enrollment deposit and any additional required documents:

• Final Transcripts: Ensure you send official transcripts showing your final grades.
• Health Records: Complete the necessary health forms and immunization records required by the university.

Step 8: Apply for Housing

After confirming your enrollment, apply for on-campus housing. A $200 (INR 17K) housing deposit is required, which will be applied toward your tuition and fees.

Step 9: Attend Orientation and Begin Classes

• Orientation: Participate in the mandatory orientation to familiarize yourself with the campus, meet your peers, and learn about available resources.
• Classes: Attend classes according to the academic calendar, starting in the Fall or Spring, depending on your intake.

If you need help navigating these requirements or selecting the right program, you can schedule a free one-on-one counseling session with experts to assist you through the UMass Dartmouth application process.

Now that we've covered the general admission steps, let's explore the specific criteria and deadlines for the MBA program at UMass Dartmouth.

UMass Dartmouth MBA Admissions

The MBA program at UMass Dartmouth's Charlton College of Business is designed for business and non-business graduates aiming to advance their careers. 

This AACSB-accredited program offers flexible full-time and part-time study options, with a 30-credit curriculum and ten specializations, including Business Analytics, Finance, and Marketing. UMass Dartmouth MBA provides rolling admissions for Fall, Spring, and Summer intakes with no fixed deadline.

First, let;s discuss all the key details you need to apply for the MBA program at UMass Dartmouth, including admission requirements and available scholarships.

MBA Admission Requirements

To be considered for the MBA program at UMass Dartmouth, you must meet several key requirements, including holding a bachelor's degree, submitting GMAT/GRE scores (unless waived), and providing two letters of recommendation. International students must provide their English language proficiency score and a statement of purpose (SOP). 

The following section will explore the exact criteria and deadlines for submitting your application.

Requirement	Details
Application Fee	$60 (INR 5K) (non-refundable)
Bachelor's Degree	From an accredited institution, minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
GMAT/GRE Score	Required unless waived (minimum score of 500); waivers available based on specific criteria
Letters of Recommendation	Two letters, preferably from a faculty member and an employer
Statement of Purpose	Minimum 300 words detailing career goals and motivation for pursuing the MBA
Resume	Current resume outlining professional experience
English Proficiency	TOEFL iBT 80 IELTS 6.5 Duolingo 110 Pearson PTE Academic 58 (for non-native English speakers)

Note: International applicants must also submit official transcripts and may be required to provide a credential evaluation.

Next, let’s look into MBA scholarships.

MBA Scholarships

UMass Dartmouth offers various scholarships to MBA students, which are typically merit-based. These scholarships can help manage the cost of studying and the cost of living in the US. These scholarships are generally merit-based and may require separate applications.

In the table below, you'll look at the different types of scholarships available and how to apply for them.

Scholarship	Eligibility	Benefits
Alumni Association Scholarship	Full-time graduate students who have completed at least 9 credit hours and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.2.	Financial support is based on academic achievement and financial need.
Chancellor's Centennial Scholarship	Students demonstrating excellent academic standing; requires at least one semester of full-time study at UMass Dartmouth.	Financial assistance to support graduate studies.
Graduate Research Assistantships	Graduate students engaged in research projects within their departments.	Stipend and tuition remission in exchange for research duties.
Distinguished Doctoral Fellowships	Outstanding applicants enrolling full-time with a 3.5 GPA.	$24,000 (INR 20.5L) annual stipend plus full tuition and fee credit for up to four years.
First-Year Doctoral Fellowships	Strong applicants enrolling full-time with a 3.5 GPA.	$20,000 (INR 17.1L) stipend plus full tuition and fee credit for one year.

Note: Some MBA scholarships have specific deadlines and requirements. Check with the UMass Dartmouth Financial Aid Office for details.

Indian students should begin the MBA application process early to account for visa processing and other logistical considerations. 

Next, look at the overall requirements for MS admissions at UMass Dartmouth.

UMass Dartmouth MS Admissions

UMass Dartmouth's MS programs maintain an acceptance rate of around 92%, offering diverse opportunities for students to advance in engineering and computer science. 

For an MS in accounting or finance, the university offers rolling admission. For all the other MS programs, like Marine science, Electrical Engineering, or Data science, the Fall intake deadline is July 15, 2025, and the Spring intake deadline is October 1st, 2025. 

So, you know the application deadlines for 2025. Now, first let's learn about the admission requirements, and after that, the scholarships. 

MS Admission Requirements

To apply for MS programs like Master's in computer science,  MS in data analytics, or STEM courses at UMass Dartmouth, you must submit a completed application with a $60 (INR 5K) fee, a 300+ word statement of purpose, and official transcripts. International students must provide English proficiency scores and meet program-specific requirements. GRE scores may be needed for specific programs. 

Here's a complete list of the MS admission criteria.

Requirement	Details
Application Fee	$60 (INR 5K) (non-refundable) for most applications $75 (INR 6.4K) for Nursing applicants
Statement of Purpose	Minimum 300 words outlining your graduate study objectives, research interests, and industry experience, if applicable
Resume	Current resume detailing academic and professional experience
Transcripts	Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions; unofficial transcripts are accepted for review
English Proficiency	TOEFL (min. 72) IELTS (min. 6.0) Pearson PTE (min. 52) Duolingo (min. 95)
GRE Scores	Required for some programs; waivers may apply depending on academic background.

Note: Specific documents, such as semester-by-semester transcripts, may be needed for students applying to more specialized programs like the MS in Data Science.

Now, let's explore the MS scholarships available at UMass Dartmouth.

MS Scholarships

UMass Dartmouth offers various scholarships for MS in the USA and Graduate Research Assistantships, which provide stipends and tuition remission for research roles. The S-STEM Program also supports academically talented, low-income students in STEM fields with scholarships.

You can apply for the following scholarships to pursue an MS at UMass Dartmouth.

Scholarship	Eligibility	Benefits
Graduate Research Assistantships	Graduate students engaged in research within their program of study.	Stipend and tuition remission in exchange for research responsibilities.
S-STEM Program	Low-income, academically talented students are enrolled in STEM programs.	For eligible students, scholarships of up to $10,000 (INR 85K) in the MS year.
Chancellor's Scholarship	Full-time graduate students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievements.	Partial to full tuition coverage based on academic merit.
Alumni Association Scholarships	For graduate students with a minimum GPA of 3.2 and at least 9 credit hours completed at UMass Dartmouth.	Provides financial support for graduate studies based on academic merit.

Note: Scholarship deadlines generally fall between March 1 and August 1 each year. Make sure to check each scholarship for its specific deadline.

After exploring the MS admission process and scholarships, let's focus on the admissions process for other postgraduate programs at UMass Dartmouth.

UMass Dartmouth: Other PG Courses Admissions

UMass Dartmouth offers diverse postgraduate programs in fields like Law, engineering, public policy, and the arts, with specialized courses in Marine Science, Psychology, and Visual Arts. These programs train you for leadership positions in your field. 

In addition to the traditional Juris Doctor (JD) program, UMass Dartmouth offers several specialized postgraduate law programs designed to cater to diverse legal interests and career paths.

Next, let’s explore admission requirements, test scores, program-specific criteria, and available scholarships.

Other PG Course Admission Requirements

For postgraduate courses at UMass Dartmouth, you must meet both general admission requirements and specific criteria for your chosen program. Apart from the basic requirements mentioned above,  some programs may also require a portfolio (for art-related fields) or research experience (for science and engineering tracks).

Below is a detailed breakdown of the admission requirements for various programs.

Requirement	Details
Bachelor's Degree:	Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
GPA	A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 is generally required, though some programs may have higher expectations.
Statement of Purpose	An impactful admission essay (300 words) outlining the applicant's academic interests, career goals, and reasons for pursuing the specific program.
Standardized Test Scores	Some programs like Accounting, Computer Engineering, Healthcare Management, Civil & Environmental Engineering, Law, etc, require GRE, GMAT, or LSAT scores. In contrast, others may waive this requirement based on academic qualifications or professional experience.
Resume/Curriculum Vitae	A detailed resume or CV highlighting academic achievements, work experience, and relevant skills.
Official Transcripts	From all post-secondary institutions attended
English Proficiency	TOEFL iBT 72 IELTS 6.0 Duolingo 95
GRE Scores	Required for programs like Biomedical Engineering and Biotechnology, Chemistry and Biochemistry, Luso-Afro-Brazilian Studies & Theory, Marine Science and Technology, etc Waivers are available based on academic background.
Letters of Recommendation	Typically two from academic or professional sources.
Portfolio	For programs in the arts, such as MFA degrees, a portfolio showcasing the applicant's work is required.

Note: Specific programs may have additional requirements. It's advisable to consult the UMass Dartmouth Graduate Admissions page for detailed information.

Having covered the admission requirements for postgraduate courses, let's focus on the specific criteria for undergraduate admissions at UMass Dartmouth.

UMass Dartmouth Bachelor's Admissions

UMass Dartmouth offers 120 undergraduate fields of study and a lively campus with over 140 student clubs and organizations. With a research activity budget of $42M and an undergraduate enrollment of 5,602 students, the university provides diverse opportunities for academic and extracurricular engagement while emphasizing critical thinking. 

Let's pinpoint some of the key advantages of joining this institution.

Advantages of Getting Into UMass Dartmouth

UMass Dartmouth's multidisciplinary approach, especially in psychology, environmental science, and business management, prepares students to address global concerns successfully. 

Additionally, UMassD is classified as a "Doctoral University: High research activity" by the Carnegie Classification, providing students with ample opportunities to engage in meaningful research projects. 

Here are some advantages of studying a bachelor’s degree at UMass Dartmouth:

• Affordable Tuition and Financial Aid: UMassD offers competitive tuition, with most undergraduates receiving financial aid. The New England rate reduces costs for nearby students.
• High Return on Investment: Alumni from UMassD are ranked in the top 27% for average salary, showcasing the university's focus on preparing students for successful careers and financial stability post-graduation.
• Engaging Campus Life: With over 140 student clubs and organizations, including Esports, academic clubs, theater, and almost everything you need to make the most of your university experience.
• Lively Campus and Great Location: UMassD's beautiful 710-acre campus, with forested paths and a lively quad, is just an hour from Boston and between Providence and Cape Cod. 
• Diverse Opportunities for Growth: UMassD offers internships, study abroad, research, service learning, and 4+1 bachelor’s/master’s programs, plus accelerated MBA options.
• On-Campus Living and Dining: UMassD offers various accommodations, from traditional residence halls to townhouses, and great food from The Gove. 

Next, let's explore the admission details further.

UMass Dartmouth Bachelor's Admission Requirements

To apply for a bachelor's degree at UMass Dartmouth, you must submit your application with a $60  (INR 5K) fee, a high school transcript, and optional standardized test scores. Specific programs may have additional requirements, such as early deadlines or competitive application processes. 

Below are the detailed admission criteria and deadlines you should be aware of.

Requirement	Details
High School Transcript	Completion of 17 college preparatory courses, including: 4 units of English 4 units of Mathematics (Algebra I & II, Geometry or Trigonometry) 2 units of Foreign Language (same language) 3 units of Laboratory Sciences 2 units of Social Sciences 2 units of Electives
Standardized Test Scores	Optional. SAT: 1080+ or ACT: 22+ recommended for scholarship consideration.
Application Deadlines	Early Action: November 15, 2024 (Closed) Priority Application: March 1, 2025  (Closed) Priority FAFSA Filing: April 1, 2025  (Closed) Final Application Deadline: Rolling admissions through summer
Program-Specific Requirements	Nursing Program: Priority deadline is February 1, 2025 (Closed). Competitive Programs: Early application for Biology, Engineering, and other competitive programs is recommended.

Now, let's focus on the scholarships that will ease the educational journey in the US.

UMass Dartmouth Bachelor's Scholarships

UMass Dartmouth offers a variety of scholarships to assist undergraduate students in financing their education. 

Each year, the university awards over $1 million in aid through both need- and merit-based scholarships. 83% of undergraduate students at UMass Dartmouth received financial assistance through grants or loans, ensuring that many students have access to the support they need. 

Below is a detailed overview of the available scholarships for international students:

Scholarship Type	Details
Admissions Award	Eligibility: First-year applicant Minimum combined SAT Math & Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score of 1000 or ACT score of 20 Minimum 2.7 GPA Benefits: Awarded for four years (eight semesters) Must maintain full-time status (12 credits/semester, 24 credits/year, and 3.0 GPA. Scholarship forfeited if requirements are not met. Online & Continuing Education courses not covered.
Chancellor's Scholarship	Eligibility: First-year applicant Minimum combined SAT Math & Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score of 1200 or ACT score of 25 Minimum 3.8 GPA Benefits: Awarded for four years (eight semesters) Must maintain full-time status (12 credits/semester, 24 credits/year, and 3.0 GPA. Scholarship forfeited if requirements are not met. Online & Continuing Education courses not covered.
Dean's Scholarship	Eligibility: First-year applicant Minimum combined SAT Math & Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score of 1100 or ACT score of 22 Minimum 3.4 GPA Benefits: Awarded for four years (eight semesters) Must maintain full-time status (12 credits/semester), 24 credits/year, and 3.0 GPA. Scholarship forfeited if requirements are not met. Online & Continuing Education courses are not covered.

You have gained a detailed idea of the admission process by now. So, let's focus on where to find help or any support at UMass Dartmouth.

UMass Dartmouth Student Support Services

With a diverse student body representing 49 states and 55 countries, the university promotes a community committed to your success. These services include academic advising, tutoring, career counseling, and mental health support designed to meet your needs. 

UMass Dartmouth is committed to supporting you through course registration, accommodations, and career exploration.

Let's find detailed information about each service below, including eligibility criteria and its benefits.

• Student Service Center (SSC): Supports course registration, billing, and financial aid through in-person, online, and phone channels. Students manage accounts via the COIN system. Resolves administrative issues quickly for a smooth academic experience.
• Office of Student Accessibility Services (OSAS): Provides accommodations such as extended exam time and priority seating for students with disabilities. Students register each semester for support. Works with faculty to ensure necessary academic adjustments.
• TRiO Student Support Services (SSS): Assists first-generation, low-income, and disabled students with advising, tutoring, and financial literacy workshops. Offers grant aid to Pell Grant recipients. Aims to improve retention and graduation rates.
• Academic Resource Center (ARC): Offers free tutoring for STEM and business courses, including one-on-one sessions and study guides. Students can apply for paid internships or become peer tutors. Fosters academic collaboration.
• Counseling Center: Provides individual counseling, group therapy, and workshops on stress and study skills. Includes College Safety Resources. Services are confidential and support overall student well-being.
• Career Center: Offers résumé reviews, interview prep, and job search strategies. Hosts career fairs and networking events. Connects students with professionals to support career transitions with salaries more than minimum wage after completion of a degree.
• Housing & Residential Education: Manages room assignments, billing, and roommate mediation for on-campus housing. Resident staff create a supportive living environment focused on academic success.
• International Student & Scholar Center: Supports international students with visa guidance, cultural adjustment, and academic success. Offers workshops and personalized advising to aid campus integration.
• Student Engagement & Leadership (OSEL): Encourages involvement through 160+ student organizations and leadership programs. Helps students build real-world leadership skills and peer networks.
• Health Services: Provides check-ups, immunizations, treatment, and wellness education. Refers students to local healthcare providers for specialized medical care.