Our university offers a uniquely American experience for residents of countries outside the United States through our small class sizes and community partnerships.



Did you know?

  • Our university is home to students from 17 countries
  • Portland, Maine is ranked highly on many national lists, including the #1 Best Place to Live on the East Coast
  • We are located 2 hours from Boston, MA, and 5.5 hours from New York, NY (by automobile)
  • Our undergraduate certificate programs are not eligible for an I-20 student visa or scholarships — apply for undergraduate admission to pursue a bachelor’s degree
  • There is a US $50 fee to apply for admission (no fee for Canadian applicants)
On the left, alternating diagonal mass timbers frame the portico of our new Career & Student Success Center. On the right, two wings of our Portland Commons residence hall are visible.

New buildings on our Portland campus

Our new eco-conscious McGoldrick Center for Career & Student Success and Portland Commons residence hall are open! The new buildings offer student services, a dining hall, plenty of lounge and study areas, our University Store, and even a café and brewpub. Housing is available for ages 22+ with the option for 12-month contracts.

Explore the new buildings
A person seated in front of a laptop. In their hand, a pen is poised just below their chin.

International admission representatives

We maintain relationships with international student recruitment agencies in several countries. These agencies are authorized to help you determine if the University of Southern Maine is the right choice for you.


Undergraduate study

A cluster of students ascending and descing an outdoor staircase on our Gorham campus on a bright autumn day.

Three vibrant campuses

Our welcoming community spans three dynamic campuses. Portland is our lively, urban residential campus. Gorham is our expansive, quieter residential campus. And Lewiston is centrally located for area residents interested in healthcare-related programs.

Explore our campuses
A student seated on the floor of a residence hall common space holds up an open workbook as other students in the group look on.

Living on campus

We offer housing options on our Gorham and Portland campuses. Gorham is a quiet, suburban environment where you can build relationships. Portland is a busy, urban campus, which is great for internship access as a junior or senior.

Explore our residence halls

Graduate study

Two students working with a microscope in one of our campus labs.

Student research

With the support of our faculty and professional research staff, you may perform solution-oriented inquiry and analysis that contribute to your professional development and enhance your career opportunities. You may also co-author published research articles or reports.

Learn about research
Two people seated at a table working together on a project.

Graduate assistantships

Get a part-time job as a graduate assistant, research assistant, or teaching assistant in one of our many University departments! This is a great way to develop professional skills, gain work experience to enhance your academic or career goals, and earn valuable financial support.

Browse opportunities

Admitted students

A parent laughs with a child seated on their shoulders.

Bringing dependents

If you’d like to bring a dependent spouse or child under the age of 21 with you while you study at USM, they are eligible to get an F-2 visa. You must also indicate that you can financially support your family.

Our Office of International Programs will work with you throughout your time at our university. As a new student, you must arrive a few days before your first semester begins to attend orientation.

average class size

student-faculty ratio

full-time faculty