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

In the years leading up to the 2000s, the University of Maryland-College Park embraced a whopping 75% of its applicants, warmly welcoming them into the Terrapin community. Fast forward to today, and the landscape has dramatically shifted, with the University of Maryland’s acceptance rate plummeting to as low as 41%. The number of applicants has also more than doubled since the close of the Clinton Presidency.

A mere generation ago, incoming Maryland freshmen boasted respectable yet unremarkable academic profiles. Fast forward to 2023, and the scenario has undergone a seismic change. First-year Terrapins now flaunt a median SAT score of 1440 and an average weighted GPA approaching 4.4. The competition is fierce, making it no surprise that the UMD acceptance rate has witnessed a sharp and continuous decline. The academic landscape has evolved, reflecting a university that now attracts and admits students with exceptional credentials, marking a significant transformation over the years.

What is The University of Maryland Acceptance Rate?

The race for admission to the University of Maryland’s Class of 2026 was fierce, with a staggering 56,637 hopefuls vying for a coveted spot. However, only 44% of this ambitious pool, totaling 25,201 individuals, secured acceptance to the College Park campus.

While the university acknowledges a preference for in-state applicants in the admissions process, specific in-state versus out-of-state admission rates remain undisclosed. Unfortunately, without these figures, it’s challenging to quantify the advantage that in-state applicants may enjoy in the pursuit of admission to the University of Maryland.

What is The University of Maryland Early Action Acceptance Rate?

When it comes to gaining admission to the University of Maryland, the latest data strongly advocates for submitting an Early Action application. In the case of the Class of 2025, a remarkable 61% of Early Action applicants secured acceptance, in stark contrast to the 38% acceptance rate for those who opted for Regular Decision.

The impact of Early Action is underscored by the fact that over 90% of the incoming class successfully secured their spots through this early application route. This substantial difference in acceptance rates contributed to an overall acceptance rate of 52% for the Class of 2025. The statistics clearly highlight the strategic advantage of opting for Early Action when aspiring to join the University of Maryland.

What is The University of Maryland SAT, GPA, and Class Rank?

Delving into the University of Maryland’s Class of 2025 admissions data reveals key metrics that define the academic prowess of its enrolled freshmen. In terms of standardized testing, the mid-50% SAT range for these students spanned from 1370 to 1510, while the ACT range demonstrated a comparable level of excellence, ranging from 30 to 34.

Academic achievements were further underscored by the fact that a substantial 85% of the admitted students possessed a weighted GPA of 4.0 or higher. The Class of 2022-23 showcased the caliber of students, with an impressive 66% hailing from the top 10% of their high school class. Additionally, a remarkable 90% secured a position within the top 25% of their graduating class, exemplifying the university’s commitment to attracting academically accomplished individuals.

What is The Admission Insights at University of Maryland?

Exploring the dynamic landscape of admissions at the University of Maryland reveals intriguing trends and noteworthy statistics:

  1. Residential Composition: A significant 76% of the current undergraduate body comprises Maryland residents, reflecting a strong representation from the local community.
  2. Global Diversity: The university boasts a truly international community, with students hailing from an impressive 116 countries, showcasing the institution’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment.
  3. Surge in Applications: The influx of interest in the University of Maryland is evident in the substantial growth in applications. Over the past few years, the number of applicants surged from approximately 32,000 to an impressive 56,000, underscoring the university’s broad appeal.
  4. Advanced Placement: A notable 14.7% of incoming freshmen kick-start their academic journey with enough college credit to begin at a sophomore standing, emphasizing the prevalence of advanced placement and the pursuit of academic excellence among the student body.
  5. Test-Optional Policy: In response to evolving educational landscapes, UMD-College Park adopted a test-optional policy for the fall 2023 admissions cycle. This flexible approach will persist for the 2024 and 2025 cycles, reflecting the university’s commitment to providing equitable opportunities for all prospective students, irrespective of standardized test scores.

What is the Admissions Criteria at University of Maryland?

The University of Maryland employs a comprehensive approach to evaluating applicants, assigning varying levels of importance to different factors in the admissions process. Here’s a breakdown of how applicants are assessed:

Very Important Factors:

  1. Rigor of High School Course Load: The intensity and challenge of the high school curriculum are deemed crucial in evaluating an applicant’s preparedness for college-level studies.
  2. GPA (Grade Point Average): Academic performance, as reflected in the GPA, is a significant factor in the admissions decision.
  3. Standardized Test Scores: The university places importance on standardized test scores as part of the holistic evaluation process.

Important Factors:

  1. Class Rank: The applicant’s standing in their graduating class is considered as a valuable metric in the admissions assessment.
  2. First-Generation Status: Whether an applicant is a first-generation college student holds importance in the evaluation process.
  3. Essays: The content and quality of essays submitted by applicants contribute significantly to the overall evaluation.
  4. Recommendations: Letters of recommendation play a role in providing insights into an applicant’s character and potential for success.
  5. Talent/Ability: Special talents or abilities possessed by an applicant are recognized as important in the admissions decision.
  6. State Residency: The applicant’s residency status within the state is taken into account.

Considered Factors:

  1. Geographical Residence: The region or locality of an applicant is considered in the evaluation process.
  2. Extracurricular Activities: Involvement in extracurricular pursuits is recognized as a factor that contributes to a holistic understanding of the applicant.
  3. Character/Personal Qualities: Personal attributes and character traits are considered in the evaluation of an applicant.
  4. Alumni Relation: Any family connections to university alumni may be taken into consideration.
  5. Racial/Ethnic Status: The diversity of the applicant pool is acknowledged as a factor in the overall admissions assessment.
  6. Work Experience: Previous work experience is considered as part of the holistic evaluation of an applicant.
  7. Volunteer Work: Engagement in volunteer activities is recognized as a positive contribution to an applicant’s profile.

The University of Maryland adopts a multifaceted approach, considering a diverse array of factors to ensure a thorough and fair evaluation of each applicant.

What is The University of Maryland Demographics?

Let’s delve into the diverse demographics that shape the undergraduate student body at the University of Maryland:

Top States Sending Students to UMD:

  1. Maryland
  2. New Jersey
  3. New York
  4. Pennsylvania
  5. Virginia

States with Fewest Represented Students:

  1. Montana
  2. Wyoming
  3. North Dakota
  4. South Dakota
  5. Alaska

Top Countries Contributing International Students:

  1. China
  2. India
  3. South Korea
  4. Spain
  5. Taiwan

Ethnic Identity Breakdown:

  • White: 45%
  • Asian: 20%
  • Hispanic: 10%
  • African American: 12%
  • Two or More Races: 5%
  • International: 3%

Gender Split at UMD:

  • Men: 51%
  • Women: 49%

These demographics paint a vivid picture of the University of Maryland’s diverse student community, where individuals from various states, countries, and ethnic backgrounds come together to contribute to the rich tapestry of the academic environment. The university not only represents a wide array of regions but also showcases a commitment to fostering inclusivity and diversity among its student body.

What is The University of Maryland Yield Rate?

Exploring the University of Maryland’s “Yield Rate” provides insights into the enrollment patterns of accepted students. Currently standing at 23%, this metric indicates that only 23% of those offered admission ultimately choose to enroll at the university. It’s worth noting that this figure is notably lower compared to other prestigious state universities such as the University of Florida, the University of Michigan, and UVA, where a higher percentage of admitted students opt to join the academic community. The yield rate serves as a valuable indicator of the university’s appeal and competitiveness in attracting admitted students to matriculate at the University of Maryland.

The University of Maryland Application Process Key Tips


If you’re gearing up to be one of the 56,000+ hopefuls aiming for admission to the University of Maryland in the upcoming cycle, keep these key tips in mind:

  1. Early Application is Key: To maximize your chances, submit your application by November 1. This is emphasized in uppercase letters to underscore its significance, especially for those quickly skimming through information. Our previous discussion on Early Action versus Regular Decision acceptance rates highlights the importance of this deadline.
  2. No Interviews in the Evaluation Process: Unlike some other institutions, the University of Maryland does not incorporate interviews into its evaluation process. Applicants are assessed based on other elements of their application.
  3. Demonstrated Interest Not Considered: The University of Maryland doesn’t factor in demonstrated interest. Whether or not you’ve visited the campus or contacted an admissions officer won’t impact your application evaluation.
  4. Application Platforms: Prospective Terrapins can submit their applications through either the Common Application or Coalition Application, providing flexibility in the application process.

UMD Acceptance Rate (Continued)

  1. Preferred Major vs. Limited Enrollment Programs (LEPs): While the preferred major you indicate doesn’t play a role in the general admissions process, applicants to majors categorized as “Limited Enrollment Programs” may undergo additional scrutiny due to limited space. Refer to the list of LEPs for more information.
  2. Pay Attention to Short Responses: Allocate ample time and effort to the “Complete this Sentence” short responses required by the University of Maryland. In the 2021-22 cycle, the prompt encourages students to explore opportunities beyond the classroom for both academic and personal growth.

These insights aim to guide potential applicants through the nuances of the University of Maryland’s admissions process, helping them present a strong and compelling case for admission.

Conclusion

In summary, individuals with SAT/ACT scores falling within the mid-50% range for the University of Maryland, coupled with a prominent standing at the pinnacle of their high school class, stand as highly promising candidates for admission to this esteemed institution. As emphasized by the university, successful freshman applicants typically exhibit a robust A-/B+ average or better in their high school coursework. Additionally, they actively engage in the most rigorous courses accessible to them, including honors, Advanced Placement, or International Baccalaureate courses. This criterion underscores the university’s commitment to admitting students who have excelled academically and embraced challenging educational opportunities during their high school journey.