Things to Know and Do Before Your Meeting
“Am I Ready?” Check List
MyUSM is your place to find University information and resources, such as:
- Academic support and advising
- Athletics
- Campus Involvement Opportunities
- Campus Safety
- Health and Wellness support
- Research resources
- Student Services
- Technology and Resources
- Your “Launchpad” links to your email, Student Center, Brightspace for online course resources, Navigate, and more!
Think of your MyUSM Portal as a one-stop “shop” to access all things USM. Bookmark it on your browser or create an “app” on your mobile device’s home screen to keep it handy!
This takes just a few minutes to resolve in MaineStreet. The hold prevents you from being able to enroll in classes until you read and confirm that you understand the expectations regarding your personal financial responsibility to USM. You must remove this hold before your ACS.
Removing the hold is simple. Follow the instructions on this page to remove it.
- ALEKS Math Placement Log In Instructions
- Advising’s ALEKS Math Placement Guide (Do I need to take this exam?)
- Frequently Asked Questions
- USM’s Math Pathways
Once your appointment is scheduled, it’s important to know where and when to arrive on campus or, if you’re meeting on Zoom, what to ensure you have ready to go prior to your meeting.
- Review Admissions’ Information on visiting the Portland Campus.
- Plan to arrive on campus ~15 minutes before your scheduled appointment so you have plenty of time to park and check in.
- Park in the parking garage at the Abromson Community Education Center with the entrance on Surrenden Street.
- The Advising Office is located in 137 Luther Bonney Hall, which you can get to by going over the skywalk bridge from the Abromson Center.
Pro Tip: Park on the “3rd” Level of the parking garage for direct access to the skywalk bridge. - Once you cross, Luther Bonney Hall is on the left. We are located inside of the Computer Lab. You’ll check in at the front desk and see the “QR” code to validate your parking. Be sure to know your plate number!
- Review Admissions’ Information on visiting the Gorham Campus.
- Plan to arrive on campus ~15 minutes before your scheduled appointment so you have plenty of time to park and check in.
- Park in either the G3 or G4 lot by Bailey Hall
- The Advising Office is located in 119 Bailey Hall. You’ll check in at the front desk and see the “QR” code to validate your parking. Be sure to know your plate number!
Be sure to download and test Zoom. Zoom is a video-conferencing application that will be used to connect you to your advisor. All students, faculty, and staff have access to a pro-level Zoom account.
- Follow these linked instructions to download and launch the application. You’ll be able to connect to your ACS advisor by clicking the link in the email we send or the Google Calendar appointment that will be on your maine.edu Google calendar.
- Be sure to review our Zoom Tips and Tricks for a successful meeting with your ACS Advisor!
The following items may be important to consider and take note of prior to your meeting:
- A list of college-level courses & exams. Bring a list of any Advanced Placement (AP) exams, CLEP exams, DANTES exams, and college-level courses or certifications you have taken, or are currently enrolled in, to your appointment or fill out the New Student CPL Survey.
- A list of Non-Academic Time Commitments. To help put together a schedule that works for you, bring your work schedules, athletic schedules, or any other commitments that you know will occur during the upcoming semester.
- A family member or support person. This is optional, but you are welcome to invite someone to attend your appointment with you or attend on your own. It is entirely up to you.
- Your questions! It can be helpful to write them down ahead of time, so you don’t forget!
- Fill out your FAFSA! To receive Federal Financial Aid, Federal regulations require that students be admitted to a degree program. Please do not forget to list USM’s Title IV Institution Code (009762) to ensure that USM will electronically receive your FAFSA data.
- If you’re planning to live on campus, be sure to submit your Housing Application. Click the link here to learn more about the housing process and how to apply!
Agenda: What are we doing today?
See our meeting agenda for resources and documents that will help guide us during your ACS Meeting.
At the beginning of our meeting, we’ll chat about your goals, major areas of interest (if any), and review what to expect from our meeting today!
It’s time review your major, Core, and degree requirements!
Overall Graduation Requirements
In addition to all major and core required classes and grade requirements, students must complete a minimum of 120 credits and achieve a minimum 2.0 GPA in order to graduate. More details on our graduation requirement policies can be found on the Office of Registration’s Academic Policies Page (under undergraduate policies).
Core Curriculum
The Core Curriculum is required of all students, regardless of major. To learn more, see our Husky Advising Guide information here or view the fillable PDF guide.
Major Requirements
Each major at USM has a unique set of requirements. Many even have courses that will overlap or “double dip” with other Core requirements. You can view the course catalog for the year you enter USM as a new, transfer, or readmitted student via this link. Hint: we also refer to this as your “catalog year” requirements.
Undecided? Check out our Husky Advising Guide on Exploring Majors.
Be sure to have your time commitments ready! This can include practice schedules, work schedules, or any other time commitment that you need to work around for your schedule.
You and your advisor will work together to determine which classes to enroll in for your first semester.
Check out our guide on Navigating Registration in the Husky Advising Guide for MaineStreet Enrollment Tutorials.
Below, you’ll see a list of several resources available to you as a USM Student. Feel free to review on your own or with your advisor to learn more. Otherwise, check out the “Next Steps” for after your meeting.
Next Steps for After Your Meeting
Please see below for important next steps. We also have a downloadable version that you can use to keep track of your personal progress!
High Priority (To Be Completed ASAP!)
Complete the Math Placement Assessment, if still needed, then email your ACS advisor.
Submit your AP or IB or other exam scores to the Credit for Prior Learning Office.
Request final official transcripts from previous colleges (transfer/ dual enrollment) be sent directly to USM at:
USM Transfer Affairs Office
107 Bailey Hall
37 College Avenue
Gorham, ME 04038
or if digital: edocs@maine.edu
Learn about Student Financial Services and contact your Financial Aid Counselor with questions.
If you’re planning to live on campus, be sure to submit your Housing Application. Click the link here to learn more about the housing process and how to apply!
If applicable, request accommodations through the Disability Services Center here: Accommodation Request Form.
To Be Completed a Month Before Classes Start (or ASAP within the month)
Look up and order your Textbooks & Course Materials.
Review the Office of Orientation’s Checklist for Registered Students (for info on your Student ID Card, Parking, etc.)
Sign up for Orientation and/or a Campus Visit Day:
Based on Maine law, the University of Maine System requires students to be immunized against certain diseases and submit official immunization records prior to attending classes, or participation in University activities.
Maine Law requires all degree-seeking students and full-time, non-degree students born after December 31, 1956 to provide proof of the following immunizations:
- One (1) dose of Tetanus/Diphtheria (Td or Tdap) received within the last ten (10) years.
- 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.
Learn more about how to submit your required immunization records here.
To Be Completed Before the Semester Begins
Learn about FERPA and fill out the Consent to Release Information Form if needed (optional).
Prefer a Mobile Experience? Here are some important apps to consider:
- Navigate App
- Brightspace Pulse
- Campus Groups App
- Sodexo’s Everyday App (we all need to eat!)
Our NEW Husky Advising Guide is here to help you learn more about advising at USM, how to navigate your degree path, and more!
Additional Resources and Information
See below for some of our most used campus resources.
Financial Services Policies
- Satisfactory Academic Progress
- Financial Deadlines
- Forms and Appeals Information (MyUSM log-in required)
Scholarship Information
- USM Scholarship Opportunities
- Adult Degree Completion Scholarship Information
- External Scholarships and Resources
Get in Touch
The Dean of Students Office is a department within the Division of Student Affairs with primary responsibility for student advocacy and support. The Dean of Students can be reached at 207-780-4035 or usmdeanofstudents@maine.edu.
The Career Hub supports our students through career exploration, self-assessments, resume and cover letter development, job shadows, internship search, interviewing skills, and more!
Make an appointment with a Career Hub Advisor here.
Get involved in events, clubs, and leadership opportunities at USM!
- Join Student Clubs & Organizations
- Receive support on how to get involved with 1:1 Involvement Coaching
- Follow @USMStudentEngagement on Instagram to learn about fun events
- Club Sports and Intramural Sports
- Student Government Association
Student Diversity Centers
USM’s Student Diversity Centers provide supportive and inclusive spaces for the USM campus community. The Centers serve as catalysts in creating community for students, where cultural activities and celebrations occur, and student organizations meet. Through various programming, the Centers explore critical issues on campus about race, class, ethnicity, nationality, culture, sexual orientation, gender identity, and most importantly, the success of our students.
Diversity Center Locations
- 301 McGoldrick Center, Portland Campus
- Brooks Student Center, Gorham Campus
DEI Resources
- Join an Intercultural Student Affairs Affinity Group
- Follow @USMIntercultural on Instagram to learn about multicultural events
- LGBTQIA+ Resources
- Native American Waiver and Education Program
- Anti-racism Resources
- The Religious and Spiritual Life Council is an interfaith body made up of ordained Chaplains and lay-people Advisors who volunteer their time to the USM campus community. For more information, contact the Dean of Students at (207) 780-4035.
Welcome to USM!
The Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) office helps students earn credit for learning gained outside of the classroom. Whether it be a second (or first) language, skills you acquired on the job or through military service, or ways you’ve grown from engaging with your community, demonstrating this prior learning could save you time and money as you earn your degree.
The following are some ways students can earn CPL credit at USM:
- Achieve the required scores on Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) exams in high school.
- Earn Seals of Biliteracy in high school.
- Show proficiency in a language other than English by taking one or more language exams at USM
- Take an exam (CLEP, DSST, or challenge exam) or complete an academic portfolio (MyUSM) to fulfill a specific requirement in place of taking the course.
- Submit current, non-provisional licenses or certifications from state, national, or industry providers for credential review.
Learn more: usm.maine.edu/priorlearning
The Learning Commons provides free subject-based tutoring, writing assitance, peer academic coaching, technology assistance, and adult-learner coaching. Appointments are available in Gorham, Portland, and online via Zoom. You can learn more about these academic supports and make an appointment with the Learning Commons here.
Review AGILE Resources to help with time mangement, study skills, test taking, and other academic success strategies.
The Counseling Center offers comprehensive psychological services to the students of the University of Southern Maine. Make an appointment with Counseling Services here.
You can also make an appointment to visit the USM Health Clinic for medical services.
Guidelines on how to submit your required Immunization Records.
The Recovery Oriented Campus Center (ROCC) at the University of Southern Maine is a collegiate recovery center (CRC), fostering a supportive community for students in recovery from substance use and other mental health conditions.
Student Health Insurance Information.
SilverCloud is a free, online mental health tool for USM students.
The Disability Services Center (DSC) provides a wide range of services to students with attentional, learning, physical, psychological, sensory, or other health-related disabilities. Learn more about the DSC and how to set up accommodations here.
Click here to make an initial appointment with the Disability Services Center.
TRIO College Programs at the University of Southern Maine (USM) empower first-generation college students, income-eligible students, and students with disabilities to explore and achieve their academic, career, financial, and personal goals. We offer 2 programs, TRIO Scholars and TRIO STEM Scholars, and serve 260 eligible students on all three campuses (Portland, Gorham, Lewiston/Auburn).
USM offers amazing opportunties to study abroad in locations all over the world! Learn about the different types of Study Abroad programs available and make an appointment with the Study Abroad Coordinator here.
Welcome to Your First Year!
As a first year student, we recommend you keep the following top resources in mind:
- Your Academic Advisors (Faculty and Professional). Your academic advisor is your guide to your first year at USM. They can help you start an academic plan, create goals and action steps, as well as connect you with resources on campus!
- Financial Services. You know it, we know it: College costs money. Understanding the financial obligations of college and the requirements to maintain your financial aid and scholarships (if applicable) is extremely important. Be sure to connect with a financial services representative or your financial aid counselor to go through these requirements.
- Your Faculty (Teachers). Your faculty are the experts in their field of study. They are a wonderful resource whether you know what you want to do or whether you’re still exploring to find out.
- Student Life or Organization of Choice. Student Organizations on campus are a great way to get involved in campus life and to explore the community at large. Husky Fest happens in the Fall semester and is a great way to get connected and learn about what we offer at USM. Keep an eye on your maine.edu email for updates on the schedule for Husky Fest in the fall!
- The Career and Employment Hub. You may be thinking to yourself: Wait? I’m not even close to graduating, why should I go to the Career Hub? I’m not even sure my next steps! This is in fact a great reason to meet with the Career and Employment Hub. They can help you with in depth career exploration, job shadowing opportunities, and even on campus employment!
Some more resources for first-time college students:
- College Terms to Know
- Work Study Information (Financial Aid recipients only)
- Student Engagement and Leadership Office (Get Involved!)
Welcome to USM! Below, find some helpful transfer student information:
- Transfer Articulation Agreements
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Transfer Affairs Address (to send official transcripts from your final semester at your previous college)
At the University of Southern Maine, we believe that anyone — regardless of circumstances — who has the drive to succeed and the willingness to work hard deserves a chance at higher education. The Promise Scholarship helps Maine’s young people take that next step to college. The Promise Scholarship is currently accepting applications through March 15th.
The Honors Program at the University of Southern Maine is a learning community designed for high-achieving students. In Honors, students are encouraged to tap into their intellectual curiosity and creativity while exploring rich topics from multiple perspectives.
The Admissions Pathway Program (APP) is an academic support program offered through the University of Southern Maine’s English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Department. This program is designed to support non-native English speakers’ and multilingual students’ transition to the rigor of academic reading and writing in college-level courses.
- Applying for Housing Information
- Frequently Asked Questions (Housing, Meal Plans, Move In, What to Bring, etc.)
- Residence Hall Descriptions
- Room and Board Information
- METRO Husky Line Information
The University of Southern Maine is an EEO/AA institution and does not discriminate on the grounds of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, transgender status, gender expression, national origin, citizenship status, age, disability, genetic information or veteran’s status in employment, education, and all other programs and activities. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies: Director of Equal Opportunity, 101 Boudreau Hall, University of Maine, Orono, ME 04469-5754, 207.581.1226, TTY 711 (Maine Relay System).