Admissions

The University of Maine at Fort Kent is an academic community that welcomes applications for admissions from qualified students who exhibit the characteristics deemed appropriate to ensure success in a rigorous academic environment. In evaluating a prospective student’s application for admission, the University considers a variety of factors and indicators. Acceptance results from a mutual determination by the University and the student that the educational experience, which UMFK provides, will offer the applicant the most appropriate opportunities for continued self-development and personal fulfillment.

Admission Requirements

General First Year Admissions Requirements:

First-year candidates are required to graduate from an approved secondary school or complete the GED/HISET equivalent. It is recommended that the high school record will include the following College Preparatory courses:

• English: four (4) years
• Mathematics: three (3) years (Algebra I/II & Geometry)
• Science with laboratory experience: two (2) years
• Social science: two (2) years
• Foreign language

Traditional Nursing Program Admissions Requirements:

First-year applicants for the Traditional Nursing program are required to have a 2.5 GPA and recommended to have completed the following College Preparatory courses with a grade of C, or better, in:

• English: four (4) years
• Mathematics: three (3) years (Algebra I/II & Geometry)
• Science with laboratory experience: two (2) years (Biology and Chemistry)
• Social science: two (2) years
• Anatomy and Physiology or Physics
• Foreign language

Students not meeting the Traditional Nursing guidelines may be admitted to the Allied Health program. After successful completion of the first semester with a 2.5 term GPA, students may request to transfer into the Nursing program.

Transfer

General Admissions Requirements:

Transfer candidates are required to submit official transcripts from all institutions at which they have attempted college level courses. 

If intending to apply for financial aid, transfer candidates are required to show proof of high school graduation by submitting an official secondary school transcript, or by submitting official GED scores.  Applicants with a previous degree are waived from this requirement.

Generally, transfer applicants must have left their previous institution(s) in good academic standing and have maintained a 1.75 cumulative grade point average, with the exception of applicants for the Traditional Nursing program, where students are required to have maintained at least a 2.5 cumulative grade point average.

Eligible transfer credit must be earned from a regionally accredited college or university. Eligible credit is also accepted with an approved score from Advanced Placement (AP), College Level Examination Program (CLEP), or through life experience (i.e., prior learning and/or other learning, such as military training) when validated through the approved campus processes. Course credit from international institutions will be evaluated by World Education Services (WES) prior to UMFK reviewing the transcript for transfer credit. Students with coursework from non-regionally accredited schools may inquire into the possibility of validating some or all of their learning through testing and/or approved university credit for prior learning processes. Students interested in this option should contact the university Transfer Officer for more information.

Military Training & Experience credit for education and experience that occurred during US military service are based on the recommendations of the American Council on Education (ACE) guidelines. Students must submit a JST (Joint Services Transcript) military transcript to the Registrar’s Office.

Transfer Candidates to the Accelerated Nursing Program are required to hold an earned undergraduate Bachelor of Science degree from an accredited university or college with a cumulative grade point average of at least a 3.2 on a 4.0 scale.  Students with a 3.0-3.19 may request consideration from the nursing division. Applicants are required to complete college/university courses in Anatomy and Physiology, including all systems, and Statistics with a minimum grade of C. Students are required to be enrolled full-time.

Transfer Candidates to the RN to BSN Program are required to hold an earned undergraduate Associate of Science degree in Nursing from an accredited college. Applicants are required to hold a current, valid nursing license.

Home-School Policy

The University of Maine at Fort Kent encourages education in all its forms and recognizes that students from varied academic backgrounds contribute to the diversity and academic richness of our campus.  Homeschooling is an important medium for many students, and UMFK welcomes applications from students who have been homeschooled. The following describes our admission policy regarding homeschooled students. To help guide homeschooled applicants in the admission process, the following is a list of points that will help you in your application and provide insight into UMFK’s homeschooled admissions practices:

1. Homeschooled students must complete the standard application form used for all applicants. If certain aspects of the form are not applicable to homeschoolers, then applicants are asked to leave such sections blank. 
2. All applicants, including homeschooled students, are encouraged to submit SAT/ACT test scores.*
3. UMFK accepts parent transcripts or homeschooled agency transcripts. If providing a homeschooled agency transcript, please provide literature that describes the home school agency (if available) or a short description of books/curricula used and covered. The transcript can be traditionally grade-based or can consist of a competency-based description of learning/portfolio of academic work. UMFK will also accept GED or HISET scores, but they are not required. 
4. On your application, please indicate whether your homeschooled education was correspondence-based, parent/student designed, “unschooled,” or a combination of approaches.

*UMFK does not require standardized test scores in the admissions decision process. Submitting such test scores is encouraged for consideration of merit-based scholarship.

Application Procedures

Traditional Freshman (Graduation from high school was three (3) years or less from the term for which you are applying.)

Required application materials:

1. Completed Application form
2. Official high school transcripts or GED/HISET test results
3. If applicable: Official Transcripts of Early College/dual enrollment credits

Encouraged:

1. Personal Statement/Essay
2. Letter of recommendation from a high school guidance counselor, or a high school teacher (only for applicants who currently are in high school)
3. Official SAT or ACT scores, placement exam results, or appropriate testing waiver*. When submitting test scores, the applicant should request the results of the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) of the College Entrance Examination Board, the American College Testing Service (ACT) test results should be sent to the Shared Processing Center. The CEEB code number for the University of Maine at Fort Kent is 3393; the ACT code number is 1642.

*UMFK does not use standardized test scores in the admission decision process; however, submission of test scores is strongly encouraged at the point of application. Junior year SAT/ACT test scores may be used. Test scores, in conjunction with GPA and class rank, also are used in determining eligibility for merit-based scholarships.

Non-Traditional Freshman (Graduation from high school was four (4) years or more from the term for which you are applying).

Required application materials:

1. Complete Application form
2. Official high school transcripts or GED/HISET test results
3. If applicable: Official Transcripts of Early College/dual enrollment credits

Transfer Students (12 or more transferable credits taken at another post-secondary institution).

Required application materials:

1. Completed Application form
2. Official transcript from each prior college or postsecondary institution attended
3. If applying for financial aid: Official high school transcripts or GED/HISET test results

International Applicants (First Year):

Required application materials:

1. Completed Application form
2. Credential Evaluation from a NACES or AICE approved member
3. Proof of English proficiency

International Transfers from other Institutions (12 or more transferable credits taken at another post-secondary institution). 

Required application materials:

1. Completed Application form
2. Credential Evaluation from a NACES or AICE approved member and/or official U.S. institution transcript(s)
3. Proof of English proficiency

Financial Affidavit of Support (International Students)

The affidavit form (accessed here https://www.umfk.edu/admissions/international/) is a statement of financial resources to attend the University of Maine at Fort Kent. Once accurately completed, this document will enable the issuance of the I-20. UMFK’s payment policy states that account balances need to be paid in full no later than the first day of classes unless a payment plan is made. Since international students are required to provide a statement of financial resources, students are expected to make payment arrangements at the beginning of each semester. Once on campus, if a sponsor fails to help pay the student’s bill, it is the student’s responsibility to immediately find another sponsor. Students who do not make payments on their account will not be allowed to register for the next semester and their I-20 may be revoked.

Immunization Law

The State of Maine requires all students born after 1956 to furnish proof of immunization against measles, rubella, tetanus, and diphtheria. They must submit official immunization records prior to attending classes or participating in University activities (click here for full details).

State Required Immunization Compliance Process Instructions:

Specifically, the following immunizations are required:

1. One (1) dose of Tetanus/ Diphtheria (Td or Tdap)* received within the last ten (10) years.
2. Two (2) doses of Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR)* received after (not on) the first birthday. If measles immunization was done prior to 1968, students must provide proof it was done with a live virus.

• First year IN STATE Students only:
  • If the student’s immunization information has been submitted to the the Maine state ImmPact system by a Maine-based physicians office, it will be automatically uploaded directly to the UMS Immunization Portal for you
  • Please log in to the UMS Immunization Portal to verify that the student’s status is listed as COMPLIANT
  • If in compliance, no further action is needed (unless the student has special program considerations, such as that required by Nursing)
  • If not in compliance, please submit records of all missing immunizations to the UMS Immunization Portal.
• First year OUT of STATE Students and ALL CONTINUING STUDENTS:
  • They are responsible for uploading records of the above Maine state required immunizations to the UMS Immunization Portal. 
• ​ALL STUDENTS:
  • If students are in a program which has additional immunization requirements (i.e. Nursing, Veterinary technology, dental hygiene …..) they must follow the departmental instructions for submitting any additional immunization documentation through a separate process and system (the UMS Immunization portal is for records of State mandated immunizations only and is not available to individual departments)

• INTERNATIONAL APPLICANTS should forward proof of immunization as soon as possible after notification of admission to:

  Student Affairs Office, University of Maine at Fort Kent, ME 04743 USA for review.

• Instructions for immunization uploading records to the UMS Immunization Portal can be found in the UMS ITS Website: Student Guide.

PLEASE NOTE: the most common issue students encounter when attempting to upload records is picture size. Please resize the image to the correct specifications.

*Per Maine law, a student may only be exempted from the University’s Tdap and MMR immunization requirements if the student:

1. Provides a written statement from a licensed physician, nurse practitioner or physician assistant that, in that provider’s judgment, immunization against one or more of the diseases may be medically inadvisable. The UMS Medical Exemption Waiver form can be downloaded from the UMS Immunization Portal 
2. Is enrolled in a fully remote distance learning program offered by the University and does not physically attend any classes or programs at a facility, campus, center or site of this University or any other school. Students must contact Health Services to request an exemption for online learning.

Health Insurance

Although UMS does not require health insurance for the entire student body, various categories of students must have insurance for programmatic reasons, such as Nursing and athletes, as well as international students as required by state or federal regulations. Students should direct questions to their program administrator if they have questions about required minimums. Additionally, UMS recommends all students regardless of program obtain health insurance coverage. A health insurance policy is available for students enrolled in 9 or more credits. Enrollment can be completed at https://www.gallagherstudent.com/UMS.

Fresh Start (3-year rule)

Fresh Start is an opportunity for students requesting readmission to be treated as external transfers in the determination of credits and grade point average (GPA). University of Maine at Fort Kent courses passed with a C- or better earn credit but are no longer included in the GPA. Grades below C- also remain on the academic transcript but are removed from the calculation of the GPA and credits earned.

Please note:

• Removal of partial or selective coursework is not permitted under this policy
• Students may only use Fresh Start once during their academic career at UMFK
• Once Fresh Start is granted, it is not reversible
• Students receiving Fresh Start are ineligible for Valedictorian or Salutatorian awards
• Students must fulfill UMFK residency requirements based on the credits earned after Fresh Start was granted
• Fresh Start may impact eligibility for financial aid due to the Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) Policy. This means Financial Aid will consider all credits earned, regardless of whether forgiven, to calculate SAP GPA. For more information go to Financial Aid  

To request Fresh Start, students submit an Academic Appeal form to the Academic Affairs office (umfk.academic.affairs@maine.edu) requesting Fresh Start.

To be eligible for Fresh Start, students must;

• be separated for at least three calendar years from UMFK
• meet the readmission guidelines for their program of study
• have a minimum of 30 credits remaining toward degree completion

​The Provost or designee will approve or deny the appeal and communicate the decision to the student, advisor, and Registrar’s Office. This decision is final.

The Registrar communicates to the Financial Aid Office when a Fresh Start appeal has been approved and entered on the student’s record. Fresh Start is noted on the student transcript.

International Student Immigration/Visa Information

• The U.S. State Department and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security classify almost all UMFK students from countries other than the United States as F-1 “Academic Studies” visa holders.
• F-1 students, upon admission to UMFK, are issued an I-20.
• The I-20 is the official travel and immigration document for students.
• All I-20s are issued by the campus PDSO (located within the Student Affairs office) and verified and maintained by Student Affairs. For more information, please reach out to the Student Affairs Office, 207-834-7587.
• International students enrolled in distance education (online) programs are not eligible for F-1 student status at UMFK.
• Other “Designated School Officials” (DSOs) may sign I-20 forms and advise students regarding their visa status, but the PDSO manages all official data entry for US federal compliance.
• Any current or prospective students other than F-1 students should consult with the PDSO as soon as possible prior to attempting enrollment or changing visa status.
• Undergraduate international students must be enrolled in a minimum of 9 hours on campus/in person to maintain F-1 visa status.

For more information on I-20 (Student Visa) and F1 status, please visit: http://www.ice.gov/sevis/students/.

Online/Distance Education Programs

The University of Maine at Fort Kent offers several online programs via the web (See “Distance Education ”). The admission requirements and application procedures outlined above are applicable for a student applying for an online program. Proof of health insurance is not required for students matriculated in online degree programs except in cases where a student physically attends classes or programs at the school facility or campus.

If a student is physically attending classes or programs at the school facility or campus, then a health insurance policy is available for students enrolled in 9 or more credits. Enrollment can be completed at https://www.gallagherstudent.com/UMS.

Please note, international students enrolled in distance education (online) programs are not eligible for F-1 student status at UMFK.

Readmission Applicants

Readmission applies to students who previously have attended UMFK and have sat out for two (2) or more consecutive semesters not including summer sessions. Students wishing to apply for readmission are required to submit an Adult/Transfer application. Transcripts are requested electronically from the Registrar’s Office. Eligibility for readmission is based on the overall academic performance the student had at UMFK, as well as any specific program requirements.

Students with a break in attendance for two semesters or more (not including summer terms) will lose their status as matriculated students at UMFK. Students losing matriculated status must re-apply for admission upon their return to UMFK and will be responsible for paying any required application fees. Upon re-admission, students will be subject to the catalog requirements in effect at the time of their return to UMFK. This policy will not affect students whose break in attendance is the result of military service.

Dual Degree

Associate Degree to Baccalaureate - A student who has been awarded an associate degree from UMFK may apply for admittance into a program leading to a bachelor’s degree.

1. A student with no elapsed time since being awarded the Associate degree may submit a Change of Major form to the Registrar’s Office. The requirement term and advisor’s signature are required on the form. If the student is continuing into the BSN program, the Director of Nursing signature is required. Forms are available in the Registrar’s Office or online.
2. A student with one or more semesters (not including summer semesters) elapsed since being awarded the associate degree, must apply through the Admissions Office for admittance into the bachelor degree program. A new requirement term will be assigned. Students may use the adult application form and submit the form to the Admissions Office. 

Additional UMFK Associates or additional UMFK Baccalaureate degrees - A student who has completed an associate or a bachelor’s degree from UMFK and wishes to pursue a second associate or bachelor’s degree is required to submit an application. Transcripts are requested electronically from the Registrar’s Office. Eligibility for readmission is based on the overall academic performance the student has had at UMFK, as well as any specific program requirements. A minimum residency requirement must be met for each additional degree, 15 credit hours for an associate degree, and 30 credit hours for a baccalaureate degree.

Conditional Acceptance

At times students are admitted to the University of Maine at Fort Kent, who may not meet all admissions criteria. Although a student’s academic history may fall short of certain admissions requirements, the Admissions Office may determine that the student shows great potential to succeed at the university level. These students may be offered a ‘Conditional Admission’. All students who are considered for Conditional Admissions are reviewed by the Conditional Review Committee (CRC) that consists of the Director of Admissions, Dean of the program, and/or a faculty member.

Students admitted conditionally will be required to sign a personalized learning contract and are expected to adhere to the contract stipulations. Additionally, students admitted conditionally are placed on academic probation during their first semester. Their progress is reviewed at the conclusion of the first semester by the Conditional Review Committee, resulting in either the conditions being removed or the student being suspended.

To Obtain an UMFK Application

Apply online at https://www.umfk.edu/admissions/apply/ 

Completed paper applications for admission should be mailed to the Shared Processing Center, University of Maine System, P.O. Box 412, Bangor, ME 04402-0412.

Admission Decisions

Rolling Admission

Applications for most programs may be submitted on a rolling basis; however, those received before August 15 for the fall semester and January 10 for the spring semester, will be given priority consideration.  

Admissions decisions are made on a rolling basis as files are completed. Accepted candidates are encouraged to confirm (see Tuition/Housing Deposit) their intent to enroll within 30 days of the date of acceptance. Confirmation deposits received after 30 days will be honored on a space available basis.

Accelerated Nursing Deadlines

Applications for the Accelerated Nursing on the UMFK campus must be received by March 31. Applications for the Accelerated Nursing on the UMPI campus must be received by July 15.

International Deadlines

Fall semester

First year international students must have a completed application by July 1st for fall semester. First year international students must apply for an I-20 by July 15th for fall semester. Transfer international students must have a completed application by July 15th for fall semester. Transfer international students must apply for an I-20 by August 1st for fall semester.

Spring semester

First year international students must have a completed application by December 1st for spring semester. First year international students must apply for an I-20 by December 15th for spring semester. Transfer international students must have a completed application by December 15th for spring semester. Transfer international students must apply for an I-20 by January 1st for spring semester.

Early Admission

Highly qualified students in a college preparatory program may be considered for early admission to the University. Those students would begin their university studies following completion of their junior year. Such early admission will be granted only when the secondary school agrees that a college program would be of benefit to the student’s long range educational goals, and certifies that all university work will be accepted in completion of secondary school graduation requirements.

Confirmation Deposit and Checklist Items

Upon notice of acceptance, a $50.00 (US funds) tuition deposit is requested and should be sent to the Admissions Office within 30 days. The deposit is credited to the student’s account upon registration of classes and is refundable when a request for refund is made in writing to the Admissions Office prior to May 1 for the fall semester and January 1 for the spring semester. Completion of the medical history, immunization forms, and Residence Hall Questionnaire and Contract also are required as part of the confirmed student checklist.