Maine University System reports significant enrollment growth for summer and fall semesters

The UMS Board of Trustees convened on May 19, 2025, to discuss significant updates regarding admissions and enrollment across the University of Maine System (UMS). The meeting highlighted a notable increase in student enrollment, reflecting the effectiveness of various initiatives aimed at enhancing student retention and recruitment.

The enrollment report revealed a system-wide increase of 827 students for the summer session, marking an 8.5% rise compared to the previous year. The fall enrollment figures are also promising, with a current increase of 537 students, or 3.5%, over the same period last year. Most notably, the number of active matriculated students—those who have confirmed their attendance—has surged by over 800 students, indicating robust growth across all universities within the system.

Key factors contributing to this enrollment growth include successful retention strategies implemented by university presidents and their teams, as well as ongoing initiatives such as the Adult Degree Completion program, improved transfer processes, and the Direct Admission initiative. The Direct Admission program, which allows students to be admitted more efficiently, has seen a 16.2% increase in the number of students admitted compared to the previous year.

Specific universities reported impressive statistics. The University of Maine at Farmington noted a 10% increase in deposits, the highest in four years, while the University of Southern Maine experienced an 18% rise in deposits. Additionally, nursing program enrollments are rebounding, with a collective increase of 106 students across the system.

The meeting also addressed the importance of timely admissions decisions, with the University of Maine achieving an average decision turnaround of just 1.8 days, significantly enhancing its competitiveness.

In conclusion, the UMS Board of Trustees meeting underscored a positive trend in student enrollment across the system, driven by strategic initiatives and collaborative efforts among university leaders. As the academic year progresses, these developments are expected to further strengthen the UMS's position in higher education, ensuring continued growth and accessibility for students in Maine.