University of Maryland

The University System of Maryland (USM) includes a total of 15 campuses, comprising 12 degree-granting universities and 3 regional higher education centers across the state. Among these, the University of Maryland, College Park (UMD) is the flagship and most well-known campus.

UMD is known for offering standout programs in computer science, engineering, business, journalism, public policy, and biological sciences. 

Below is a closer look at its main and associated campuses, covering what sets each one apart.

University of Maryland, College Park (UMCP)

As UMD's flagship campus, College Park stands out for its close ties with federal institutions and research hubs in Washington, D.C., making it ideal for students pursuing public policy, engineering, AI, or business.

• UMCP is home to a proudly inclusive community of over 40,000 students and 10,000 faculty and staff, offering 300+ academic programs. Students come from every U.S. state and 116 countries. 
• Students benefit from partnerships with NASA, NIH, NSA, and federal agencies, providing access to hands-on opportunities in areas like cybersecurity, public policy, and data science.
• Facilities such as the Brendan Iribe Center for Computer Science and Engineering offer advanced labs in AI, robotics, and virtual reality, while entrepreneurship hubs like the Do Good Institute support student-led social innovation.

University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB)

UMB is Maryland's center for health sciences, law, and human services education. It's ideal for students pursuing medicine, nursing, dentistry, law, or public health.

• Located in Baltimore's medical corridor, UMB students get hands-on clinical experience through affiliations with the University of Maryland Medical Center and top-tier legal clinics.
• The university attracted a record-setting $687.7 million in grants and contracts in FY 2020. Its faculty are among the nation's most productive researchers. The UM BioPark, Baltimore's largest biotech cluster, supports over 1,000 researchers and startups working on drug development, diagnostics, and health tech.
• UMB houses six nationally ranked professional schools, including medicine, law, pharmacy, and nursing, with interdisciplinary programs that prepare students for real-world impact in public health and policy.

 University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC)

UMBC is a top choice for tech-driven students, particularly in computer science, environmental science, and data analytics. It's ranked highly for both innovation and inclusive learning.

• UMBC's strengths lie in applied research. Students work on high-impact projects in national security, machine learning, environmental sustainability, and equity.
• The campus hosts the bwtech@UMBC Research and Technology Park, Maryland's first cyber incubator, supporting 130+ companies and offering internships and job placement opportunities in tech.
• Students benefit from small class sizes, a supportive peer network, and mentoring from faculty who are consistently ranked among the most productive in their fields.

University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC)

UMGC is the go-to campus for working professionals, military learners, and adult students who need flexible, career-aligned programs in tech, business, and data.

• The university offers 100% online bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in cybersecurity, biotechnology, IT, and healthcare management, with rolling admissions throughout the year.
• UMGC has physical access centers globally and has supported U.S. military education for 70+ years across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
• Known for workforce-aligned curricula, UMGC collaborates with employers to develop industry-relevant certifications and skill-based learning pathways.

After exploring the features of the University of Maryland, let's now see how this university performs in different rankings.

The University of Maryland, College Park, continues to demonstrate strong academic and research performance across global and national platforms. 

In the 2025–26 rankings, UMD is ranked #44 nationally by U.S. News & World Report and #72 globally by the same agency. It also holds a position of #218 in the QS World University Rankings 2026, improving to #207 in the 2026 edition. In the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings, it stands at #112 globally for 2025.

UMD’s consistent performance reinforces its reputation as one of the leading public research institutions in the United States.

Below are the rankings for the University of Maryland:

Note: Rankings may vary slightly depending on category (overall, subject-wise, national, or global) and methodology changes.

Next, let’s look into specific subject rankings.

Top Course-Wise Rankings 2025

University rankings provide insight into the quality and reputation of specific academic programs. UMD has a good ranking for specific programs, such as business (#87 in THE) and humanities (#64 in U.S.News). 

Here’s its performance in various programs across different global ranking systems.

After exploring the University of Maryland Ranking 2025, let's check out the admission process to study at the institute.

With an undergraduate acceptance rate of approximately 44% and a graduate enrollment exceeding 10,500 students, the University of Maryland follows a selective admissions process. 

The main intake for international students is in Fall (August–September), though select graduate programs also accept Spring applications. Visa applicants must submit financial proof, a valid passport, and Form I-20 issued by the university.

Here's a closer look at what's required to apply successfully.

Admission Requirements

Admission to the University of Maryland involves submitting your academic records, meeting program-specific GPA thresholds, and proving English language proficiency through tests like TOEFL or IELTS. 

Depending on your course, you may also need to submit GRE or GMAT scores, though several programs now consider them optional.

Here's a closer look at the key admission requirements you'll need to fulfill.

Academic Qualification

Academic qualifications form the foundation of your UMD application. Undergraduate applicants need a strong high school record, while graduate aspirants should hold a four-year degree with a competitive GPA. Some programs may require specific prerequisite subjects or additional coursework. 

The academic eligibility criteria are listed below.

Language Proficiency

If English isn't your native language, you'll need to demonstrate proficiency through a standardized test. The University of Maryland accepts TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE scores. Department-specific score thresholds may apply, so always check the exact requirements for your program.

The following table specifies the language requirements.

Competitive Exams

Some graduate-level programs, especially in business, engineering, and science, require standardized test scores such as the GRE or GMAT. However, many departments have made these tests optional in recent years. Always refer to your specific program to confirm. 
Here's a list of competitive exams:

Visa Requirements

International students need an F-1 or J-1 visa to study at UMD. Once accepted, the university issues the I-20 form needed to begin the visa process. The International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) office provides support throughout, from pre-arrival to post-enrollment.

Here are the requirements for the USA study visa process to study in the US.

Let's take a closer look at the application intakes and important deadlines at the University of Maryland.

The University of Maryland offers over 280 academic programs across undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels. These span high-demand fields such as computer science, public policy, business, and engineering. 

Here's an overview of some of the most sought-after programs and academic features at UMD:

• Computer Science
  The program is supported by the Brendan Iribe Center, which is one of the most popular majors, computer science, accounting for nearly 18% of undergraduate graduates. 
• Engineering
  Known for its strong national rankings, the program emphasizes applied learning through hands-on lab work and design projects.
• Business (Management)
  Also enrolling around 13% of students, the management program is offered by the AACSB-accredited Smith School of Business. It is known for its strengths in finance, operations, and systems management.
• Cybersecurity (Graduate)
  Offered at both master's and doctoral levels, this program collaborates closely with federal agencies. Students engage in real-time security projects and benefit from Maryland's proximity to government tech hubs.
• Global Study & Hybrid Options
  UMD offers a mix of study abroad programs, hybrid courses, and global internships, making it easier for students to gain international exposure while maintaining academic flexibility.
• Undergraduate Research Programs
  Students can join faculty-led research projects early in their academic journey, gaining real-world experience and opportunities for publication or conference presentations.

Next, let's check out the program fees at the University of Maryland.

Program Fees at the University of Maryland 

The University of Maryland (UMD) offers a tiered tuition structure based on student residency and program of study. 

For the 2025–26 academic year, undergraduate tuition ranges from approximately $13,000 (INR 10.8 lakh) for in-state students to $43,800 (INR 36.4 lakh) for out-of-state students. Graduate tuition typically falls between $15,200 and $25,000 (INR 12.6L – INR 20.8L) depending on your program and credit load.

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated tuition fees for 2025–26:

Next, let's check out how much you will be spending to study at the University of Maryland.

The University of Maryland awards a wide range of merit-based scholarships each year to help ease the financial burden for students. In fact, over $112 million in scholarships and grants were distributed in recent years, benefitting both freshmen and transfer students. 

Here's a breakdown of the key scholarships available for undergraduate and transfer applicants:

Internal Scholarships

Internal scholarships at the University of Maryland are awarded through institutional merit-based programs and academic achievement initiatives. These scholarships primarily support incoming freshmen and transfer students who demonstrate outstanding academic records, leadership, and involvement in extracurricular activities. 

Here’s a breakdown of the key internal scholarships available for undergraduate and transfer applicants:

You can also explore funding opportunities offered by government agencies and private organizations. Here’s a quick overview of some notable external scholarship options.

External Scholarships

In addition to university-funded aid, international and transfer students at the University of Maryland can apply for external scholarships supported by state programs, private organizations, and foundations. These awards often help cover tuition, living expenses, and other educational costs.

Here’s a breakdown of the key external scholarships available for undergraduate and transfer applicants:

These scholarships help ease the financial load of studying at the University of Maryland. Next, let's look at the university's placement outcomes and career support services.

Each year, the University of Maryland helps thousands of students successfully transition into the workforce through standard academic programs, internships, and employer partnerships. 

Here's an overview of recent placement outcomes:

• 95% of graduates from the Class of 2021 were employed, in graduate school, or engaged in service programs within months of graduation.
• Computer Science graduates reported a 96% job placement rate, with a median starting salary of $110,000 (INR91.3 Lakh).
• Engineering graduates had strong results, with 65% securing full-time roles right after graduation.
• 83% of engineering students completed at least one internship or co-op.

These outcomes highlight more than just employment; they reflect how UMD prepares you for real-world success. Here's how students benefit from the university's placement ecosystem:

• Apply course concepts to real-world settings, pursuing internships and co-op roles during your degree
• Build industry-relevant skills through hands-on experience and advanced labs
• Gain deep insight into your chosen field, helping you make informed career choices
• Build your resume with verifiable intern or project experience
• Increase employability post-graduation, with strong placement statistics and competitive salaries
• Network with professionals and peers, opening doors to future opportunities

Let's look at the university's top recruiters.

Top Recruiters

With over 60% of University of Maryland graduates securing employment within six months of graduation (source: UMD Career Center), the university maintains strong recruitment ties across technology, finance, public policy, and health sectors. 

Here are some top employers that regularly hire UMD alumni:

• Tech & Software: Amazon, Google, Microsoft, Facebook, TikTok
• Consulting & Finance: Booz Allen Hamilton, Capital One, Deloitte, Accenture
• Defense & Government: Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin, NSA
• Health & Pharma: Abbott, AstraZeneca, NIH
• Cloud & IT Services: Amazon Web Services, Comcast

Now that you are aware of the placement opportunities and top recruiters, let’s get into what student life looks like at the University of Maryland.

University of Maryland students enjoy a rich campus experience with over 650 student organizations, including academic groups, cultural clubs, performing arts ensembles, and more. 

The Stamp Student Union hosts events like First Look Fair and supports leadership growth through workshops and mentoring programs. UMD enhances campus living with strong support services, tailored wellness initiatives, and active recreational options.

Here are some opportunities for students at the University of Maryland

• Sports & Recreation: UMD offers both competitive and casual sports, including club sports and intramurals such as flag football, club tennis, and e‑sports. 
• Clubs & Societies: With 800+ options ranging from academic honor societies to creative arts and cultural associations, there's something for everyone. 
• Performing Arts: Students can participate in dance groups (like AfroChique and Ballroom), choir, theater, and music ensembles. 

Let's now look at some well-known graduates who have studied at the University of Maryland.

The University of Maryland has a global alumni network of over 388,000 graduates, many of whom have achieved prominence in politics, technology, business, science, and media. UMD alumni can be found in top leadership roles around the world, actively shaping industries and public policy.

Here are some notable alumni from the University of Maryland:

Now, let's compare University of Maryland with its competitors.

Comparing similar universities can help you make more informed choices by examining factors like tuition fees, academic strengths, and career outcomes. 

For instance, the University of Maryland offers competitive undergraduate tuition starting around $11,800 (INR 9.8L) for in-state students, significantly more affordable than private institutions like Northeastern University.

Here's a quick comparison of the University of Maryland, Penn State University, and Northeastern University:

The University of Maryland follows a structured admission calendar with separate deadlines for freshmen, transfer, and international applicants. Note that all required documents must be submitted by the deadline to ensure your application is reviewed on time.

Below are the key application dates for Fall and Spring 2025 intakes:

Next, let's go over the various undergraduate and graduate programs you can choose from at the University of Maryland.

Cost of Living 

Living in College Park, Maryland, involves significant budgeting, especially for students balancing tuition with day-to-day expenses. As a suburb near Washington D.C., the cost of living is higher than the national average, particularly in housing and food. 

Here's a breakdown of living expenses:

Students at the University of Maryland can access a mix of institutional scholarships and external funding to help manage tuition and living expenses. Here's a closer look at the available options.