
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
SOAR ABOVE AND BEYOND
Are you an international student looking to earn a bachelor’s degree, complete your education, or continue your educational journey at a welcoming and internationally respected university? If so, the University of Maryland Eastern Shore has what you need to succeed academically and professionally. Not only are we one of the top 10 public Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) for online learning, but we are also among the best universities for international students in the USA seeking an inclusive and diverse campus experience. From our international student services to our expert faculty, at UMES you’ll join a supportive family that values who you are, where you come from, and where you want to go.
IMPORTANT DATES
STAY UP TO DATE
| Fall Application Deadline | March 1st |
| Spring Application Deadline | November 1st |
Reminder: To stay up-to-date with the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, please view our Academic Calendar for any other departmental deadlines and campus closures.
EXPLORE OUR PROGRAMS
When you’re searching for the best universities for international students in the USA, your top priority should be the quality of the programs offered. UMES stands out from the rest, offering unique degrees such as Professional Golf Management and multiple fields in Aviation Science. Whether you’re interested in computer science, agriculture, environmental science, or rehabilitation services, studying abroad at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore can lead to rewarding careers around the globe.
View our various bachelor degree programs, as well as study abroad opportunities.
APPLICATION PROCESS
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
STEP 1: Please select one of the follow application platforms that best meets your needs.
STEP 2: Pay the non-refundable application fee of $35.
STEP 3: Submit copies of your original secondary school transcripts and evaluations. All official transcripts and evaluations should be accompanied by a credit evaluation agency in English List of Acceptable Agencies to review Foreign Transcripts
STEP 4: English proficiency tests are required to enroll at UMES. Take the TOEFL exam. UMES requires applicants to have a score of 62 (Internet-based TOEFL). The ACT or SAT is also accepted.
STEP 5: Apply for a passport.
STEP 6: Identify your sponsor to meet the educational costs for the program.
STEP 7: Submit a completed Certificate of Finances form with evidence of the minimum financial requirement (certified on a bank statement).
STEP 8: Check your Hawk Portal for any missing action items. If you are missing any important information (transcripts, proof of residency, etc), it will delay your admissions decision!
STEP 9: Monitor the email address you provided on your application for important admissions information. Please add futurehawk@umes.edu to your contact list and check your spam and promotions folders, so you do not miss out on important information.
Reminder: Please note, only completed applications will be reviewed and receive an admission decision.
Whether you are an international freshman, or international transfer student, be sure to follow the instructions list. Review the manual for international students below.
Foreign Transcript Evaluation Organizations Submit copies of your original secondary school transcripts and evaluations. All official transcripts and evaluations should be accompanied by a credit evaluation agency in English List of Acceptable Agencies to review Foreign Transcripts
Order a SCHOLARO report for the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES).
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
FORMS & CHECKLISTS
International Student Interest Packet
Instructions for International Admissions
Approved Foreign Transcript Evaluation Organizations
Transfer Eligibility Certificate
Certificate of Finances Form Example
Affidavit of Support Form (to be used in addition to the Certificate of Finances Form)
International Insurance Information
Important Notes for Staying in Compliance and Good Standing with your (F1) Student Visa
WHAT’S NEXT?
NEXT STEPS AFTER ADMISSION
- Celebrate your admission!
- Join the International Student Resource Community
- Confirm your enrollment (the link to confirm your enrollment can be found in your FutureHawk Portal).
- The $100.00 enrollment deposit is non-refundable.
- UMES Student ID Check your admission letter for your UMES Student ID Number. Memorize it or save it in your phone (you’ll need it later).
- Make an embassy appointment to get your student visa. (Check your local embassy website for scheduling instructions).
- Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee after receiving your Form I-20. (You will receive a form I-20 once you have submitted an eligible Certificate of Finances form.
- New Student Account Creation Use your UMES Student ID Number to set up your UMES New Student Account. After it is created, make note of your username and password to start receiving important information. Be sure to log into your myUMES to check your UMES student email (check your student email regularly).

- Transcripts and Evaluations Submit copies of your original secondary school transcripts and evaluations. All official transcripts and evaluations should be accompanied by a credit evaluation agency in English List of Acceptable Agencies to review Foreign Transcripts
- On-Campus Housing Complete your housing reservation online using the following steps:
- Log in to MyUMES on a computer (not a mobile device). Click on the Hawkville icon (the maroon icon that has the image of a bed/house). Select and complete the correct application
- Pay the $300 deposit with a debit/credit card
- Find a Roommate If you’re looking for a roommate, download the ZeeMee app. You will be added to the UMES community and to the channel to chat with other prospective students who are also in search of a roommate during their college admissions process. College visits and UMES campus tours are a great chance to meet potential friends and roommates as you prepare to move to campus.
- Complete your Health and Immunization forms (All international students will be charged for insurance unless appropriate insurance documents are provided).
- Make travel accommodations to arrive on campus on Student Move-In Day. (Arrange for airport pick up/transportation to campus).
- Orientation Register for International UMES New Hawk Day (Orientation). New Hawk Day will be your official welcome to the Hawk Family! You will meet key members of the campus community, register for your fall courses, and take care of any other outstanding business.
- Take the Next Step. Congratulations again for joining the Hawk family! If you have questions about any part of the college admissions process or how to set up college visits, please reach out to us.
- Stay connected with our student lead social media team.
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Paying for UMES To remain among the best universities for international students in the USA, we strive to make our programs as accessible and affordable as possible. That’s why we offer competitive tuition and fees for students studying at UMES. Although international students are required to sponsor their educational expenses, there are a few scholarship opportunities for international students. International students are eligible merit scholarships based on the academic profile.
INTERNATIONAL PAYMENT
Flywire: International payment for your tuition and fees
University of Maryland Eastern Shore has partnered with Flywire to offer a secure and streamlined way to make a payment from your home country. Founded by a former international student, Flywire’s mission is to save money for international students and their families that would otherwise be lost on bank fees and unfavorable foreign exchange rates. Flywire allows you to pay from almost any country offering excellent foreign exchange rates and no hidden fees. You will be able to track the progress of your payment online and receive email and text alerts each step of the way. Multilingual customer support via phone, chat and email is available 24×7 if you need assistance with your payment.
Click here to start your payment: http://umes.flywire.com
Need help with your payment? Email: support@flywire.com
Phone: +61 283 114 772 Website: flywire.com/support
Connect with UMES
VISIT UMES
Located in the small town of Princess Anne on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, UMES offers international students a quiet environment that is excellent for learning—all while being only three hours by car from the cultural and recreational sites of Washington, D.C., Baltimore, Philadelphia, and Virginia Beach. See for yourself the beauty of UMES and all the benefits to studying abroad here. Experience UMES!
RESOURCES FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
Resources for International Students Our Center for International Education (CIE) has helpful resources related to studying abroad at UMES. Soar above and beyond as an international student at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore and prepare for the career of your dreams—no matter what you’re interested in! Reach out to international student services to learn more about the benefits to studying abroad at UMES and why we rank among the best universities for international students in the USA.
Questions about becoming an international student at UMES? We are here to answer any of your questions! View the CIE website’s frequently asked questions. Check out our international student services for helpful resources related to studying abroad at UMES.
CONTACT US
For any questions about your application, please contact the Office of Admissions & Recruitment.
Normal Hours of Operation:
Monday-Friday: 8:00 am-4:30 pm
Office of Admissions and Recruitment
1 College Backbone Road (SDC-Suite 1140) Princess Anne, MD 21853
PHONE: (410) 651 – 8428 | EMAIL: UMESADMISSIONS@UMES.EDU | FAX: (410) 651 – 7922 |

