Everything You Need To Know About University of Maryland Early Action

The University of Maryland (UMD), a flagship public research university, offers an Early Action (EA) option for prospective undergraduate students. This explainer breaks down everything you need to know about UMD's EA program, covering the who, what, when, where, why, and how.

What is Early Action?

Early Action is a non-binding admission option that allows high school seniors to apply to UMD earlier in the fall of their senior year and receive an admission decision sooner than Regular Decision applicants. Unlike Early Decision, which is binding, EA does not obligate accepted students to enroll. Students accepted through EA can still apply to other universities and have until the national college decision deadline (typically May 1st) to make their final choice.

Who is Early Action for?

EA is generally suitable for students who:

  • Are confident in their academic record and have a strong application.

  • Have UMD as one of their top college choices.

  • Want to alleviate some of the stress of the college application process by receiving an admission decision earlier.

  • Want to explore their college options without being bound to a single institution.

    • However, students who significantly improve their academic profile in the fall of their senior year or are waiting for key events to boost their application (e.g., improved standardized test scores or significant achievements) might consider Regular Decision.

    When is the Early Action Deadline?

    The Early Action application deadline for UMD is November 1st. All application materials, including transcripts and test scores (if submitting), must be received by this date. Students should start gathering materials well in advance to avoid last-minute stress.

    Where does Early Action fit into the UMD admissions process?

    UMD's admissions process primarily consists of two tracks: Early Action and Regular Decision. EA allows students to receive an admission decision typically by late January or early February. Regular Decision applicants have a deadline of January 20th and receive their decisions in late March. UMD also offers rolling admission for transfer students. EA applicants are considered in a smaller applicant pool, potentially increasing their chances of admission.

    Why choose Early Action at UMD?

    There are several compelling reasons to apply to UMD through Early Action:

  • Early Decision: Receiving an admission decision early allows students to plan their next steps sooner.

  • Increased Chances: Historically, EA acceptance rates have been slightly higher than Regular Decision rates. While UMD doesn't explicitly state this, the smaller pool and demonstrated interest can be advantageous.

  • Financial Aid Consideration: Applying EA allows students to receive financial aid information earlier, which can aid in their decision-making process.

  • No Obligation: The non-binding nature of EA means students can still explore other college options even if accepted to UMD.

    • How does Early Action work at UMD?

    The process is straightforward:

    1. Complete the Application: Apply online through the Common Application or the Coalition Application.
    2. Submit Transcripts: Request official transcripts from your high school to be sent directly to UMD.
    3. Standardized Tests (Test-Optional): UMD is test-optional through the Fall 2025 application cycle. If you choose to submit SAT or ACT scores, have them sent directly to UMD from the testing agency.
    4. Essays and Recommendations: Craft a compelling essay and request letters of recommendation from teachers or counselors who know you well.
    5. Meet the Deadline: Ensure all materials are submitted by November 1st.
    6. Receive a Decision: UMD will notify EA applicants of their decision by late January or early February. Decisions can be acceptance, denial, or deferral to the Regular Decision pool.

    Historical Context:

    UMD has offered Early Action for many years, adapting its policies over time to best serve prospective students. The introduction of test-optional policies due to the COVID-19 pandemic has been a significant recent development, influencing application strategies and potentially impacting acceptance rates. Prior to the test-optional policy, strong standardized test scores were a crucial component of a successful application.

    Current Developments:

    The ongoing test-optional policy remains a significant factor. In the 2023-2024 admissions cycle, UMD saw a substantial increase in applications, reflecting a national trend associated with test-optional admissions. The university is closely monitoring the impact of this policy on student outcomes and diversity to inform future decisions. UMD is also placing increasing emphasis on holistic review, considering factors beyond academic metrics, such as extracurricular activities, leadership experience, and personal essays.

    Likely Next Steps:

  • Continued Emphasis on Holistic Review: UMD will likely continue to prioritize a holistic review process, seeking well-rounded students who demonstrate a passion for learning and a commitment to contributing to the university community.

  • Monitoring Test-Optional Impact: The university will continue to analyze the impact of the test-optional policy on application volume, student demographics, and academic success. The decision to extend or modify the policy beyond Fall 2025 will depend on this analysis.

  • Increased Competition: Given the increasing popularity of UMD and the growing number of applications, competition for admission is likely to remain high. Students should focus on presenting a strong and compelling application that showcases their unique strengths and experiences.

  • Focus on Diversity and Inclusion: UMD will likely continue its efforts to promote diversity and inclusion in its student body, seeking to enroll students from a wide range of backgrounds and perspectives.

  • Further Investment in STEM and Research: As a leading research institution, UMD will likely continue to invest in its STEM programs and research infrastructure, attracting highly qualified students interested in these fields.

    • Data Points to Consider:

  • UMD received over 56,000 applications for the Fall 2023 entering class, a record high.

  • The overall acceptance rate for the Fall 2023 entering class was approximately 35%.

  • The middle 50% SAT range for admitted students (those who submitted scores) was 1350-1530. The middle 50% ACT range was 30-34.

  • UMD offers a wide range of merit-based scholarships, and financial aid is available to eligible students.

Conclusion:

Applying to UMD through Early Action can be a strategic advantage for students confident in their application and eager to receive an early decision. Understanding the process, deadlines, and factors considered in the admissions process is crucial for maximizing your chances of acceptance. As UMD continues to evolve its admissions policies, staying informed about the latest developments will be key for prospective students. By carefully preparing a strong application that showcases your unique strengths and experiences, you can increase your chances of becoming a Terp.