In the 2024-2025 academic year, the University of Southern Maine (USM) is standardizing our tuition rates with a structure called differential tuition. With differential tuition, in-person and blended majors are categorized into three levels: Differential Level 1 (Standard rate), Differential Level 2, and Differential Level 3. Each level is charged a different tuition rate. Online programs continue to charge e-tuition.

Tuition is charged based on your primary major, residency status (in-state, out-of-state, or Canadian), and mode of study (in-person, blended, or fully online).

Visit 2024-2025 Undergraduate Tuition & Fees to view the tuition rate and majors in each differential tuition level.

Frequently Asked Questions

Differential tuition is used to balance the expense of offering higher-cost academic programs.

Majors are categorized by program costs into three tuition levels, and each level is charged a different tuition rate. These are Differential Level 1 (Standard rate), Differential Level 2, and Differential Level 3.

Students enrolled in certificate programs, non-matriculated students taking individual courses, and undeclared majors are charged the standard rate of Differential Level 1.

Fully online programs will not charge differential tuition. Students enrolled in online programs are eligible for our e-tuition rate.

The 2024-2025 tuition rates go into effect starting with Fall 2024 courses.

Fully online programs will not charge differential tuition. Students enrolled in online programs are eligible for the e-tuition rate.

You can log in to MaineStreet to check your primary major. Go to MaineStreet Classic Student Center and select Academic Summary on the left. Your list of majors will be presented. The first major listed is your primary major.

You will be charged the tuition rate for your primary major. Visit 2024-2025 Undergraduate Tuition & Fees to view the tuition rate and majors in each level.

If you need assistance with locating your major, connect with your advisor or the Office of Registration & Scheduling Services. If you have questions about differential tuition contact Student Financial Services.

Matriculated students who have not yet declared a major will be charged the standard tuition rate of Differential Level 1.

The deadline to request a change of major or to declare your major is the same as the Add/Drop deadline each semester. After the Add/Drop deadline, tuition charges for the semester are set based on your primary major.

Non-matriculated students (also known as non-degree students) who are taking individual courses will be charged the standard tuition rate of Differential Level 1.

Students enrolled in certificate programs will be charged the standard tuition rate of Differential Level 1.

Questions?

We’re here to help! Contact our knowledgeable Student Financial Services team.

The Chancellor recommends tuition, fee, and room and board rates for approval by the Board of Trustees each year, and they become effective after the summer term. The Board may alter these rates at its discretion.