Welcome to UMBC’s Global Community
Join our globally connected community of
students and scholars to learn, grow, and connect as students and professionals.
Get to Know UMBC
As a top-ranked public research university, UMBC welcomes over 2000 international students from 90+ countries with an inclusive culture that connects innovative teaching and learning, research across disciplines, and civic engagement.
With over 100 programs and degrees at the bachelor, masters, and doctoral levels, whatever your passion, at UMBC you’ll find a program that challenges and excites you and a community that supports you.
On this Page
Academic Programs
Explore over 150 diverse undergraduate and graduate programs at UMBC, designed to provide a solid foundation for your academic and professional future.
Living at UMBC
Experience campus life at UMBC, where you’ll find safe, convenient housing and all the resources you need to live, learn, and grow.
Ask a Student
Chat with our Global Ambassadors, current international students who are excited to share their experiences and answer all your questions about life at UMBC. You should find a popup window appearing on this page to get your chat started.
Internships and Career Development
Gain practical experience and connect with top employers through internships, co-ops, and on-campus opportunities designed to boost your career.
Undergraduate Students
Why UMBC?
At UMBC, international undergraduate students find a welcoming and inclusive environment where they can thrive academically and personally.
With over 150 innovative programs, a dedicated faculty recognized with prestigious awards, and strong student support services like the Center for Global Engagement, UMBC offers a personalized education to help you succeed.
Located near Baltimore and Washington, D.C., you’ll have access to valuable internships and cultural experiences to prepare you for a global career. At UMBC, your future begins with endless possibilities.
Undergraduate First-Year International Admissions
Learn how to apply as a first-year student if you are in or will complete secondary school and have not yet completed any university-level coursework.
Undergraduate Cost of Attendance
UMBC’s average tuition is 25% lower than other public universities in the Washington DC area – making us an affordable option to get your degree in one of the best locations in the country! We’ve been recognized by U.S. News and World Report as a Best Value school.
Undergraduate Transfer International Admission Requirements
Learn how to apply to UMBC if you have completed any college or university coursework after secondary school.
Scholarships and Funding
International undergraduate students are automatically considered for our merit-based Retriever Award, which funds partial tuition costs up to $15,000 per year. Students may also apply for our competitive Scholars Programs.
Graduate Students
Why UMBC?
At UMBC, international graduate students are part of a dynamic and diverse academic community, with 57% of our graduate students coming from around the world.
Our graduate programs offer a personalized, student-centered environment where you’ll benefit from cutting-edge research opportunities and faculty recognized with prestigious awards. Whether you’re pursuing a Master’s or Ph.D., UMBC provides a range of resources to support your academic success, including the English Language Institute for those needing additional language support.
Located near Baltimore and Washington, D.C., you’ll also have access to internships, research collaborations, and a global network to help launch your career.
Graduate International Admissions Requirements
Learn about the application process, requirements, and how to join our diverse and inclusive graduate community at UMBC as an international student.
Graduate Cost of Attendance
UMBC’s average tuition is 25% lower than other public universities in the Washington DC area – making us an affordable option to get your degree in one of the best locations in the country! We’ve been recognized by U.S. News and World Report as a Best Value school.
Funding and Graduate Assistantships
There are currently no merit-based admissions scholarships available to international students. International students are eligible to apply for graduate assistantships. Graduate assistantships provide professional development through research, teaching, or administrative work along with financial support to help you succeed while pursuing your graduate degree at UMBC.
English Language Programs
Why UMBC?
As an English Language student as UMBC, you’ll make global connections in a community of academic excellence.
UMBC’s English Language Institute (ELI) provides comprehensive English language programs to support international students in achieving their academic, professional, and personal goals.
Academic and Intensive English
Students who enroll in ELI improve their English language skills for personal, professional, or academic reasons. English language programs may be taken prior to degree study or as standalone programs.
Conditional Admission
International students who intend to complete an undergraduate degree in the US but do not yet have qualifying English proficiency test scores can attend the Bridge program.
Summer and Winter Sessions
UMBC offers summer and winter courses for international students, with options for in-person, hybrid, or online classes. International students currently residing in the U.S. must provide necessary visa documentation to enroll in in-person or hybrid courses, while those outside the U.S. may take online courses without needing to travel.
Ready to Apply?
Explore application requirements and the steps to admission.
Admitted International Student Resources
International Student and Scholarship Services (ISSS)
ISSS is dedicated to supporting UMBC’s international student and scholars to help them achieve their academic, personal, and professional goals. The office offers a variety of programs and services to assist international students, including supporting students in navigating and maintaining their visa status.
International Student Arrival Guide
Explore the International Student Arrival Guide for valuable information to help you prepare to arrive on campus, including housing resources, information about Maryland, and ways to stay connected on campus.
Admitted Student Webinars & Events
Our admitted student webinars are designed to allow incoming international students and their families to become familiar with campus processes and resources available at UMBC. These webinars are optional but highly encouraged for all incoming students.
Other Resources for International or Non-English Speaking Students:
- Custom Group Programs are designed to help students, teachers, or professionals with immersion in U.S. culture.
- Scholarships for International Students
- Pathway Programs help students who need to improve their English skills get into UMBC.
Undergraduate Admissions Checklist
Admitted Undergraduate International students should connect with the Office of Undergraduate Admissions and Orientation to complete any remaining requirements to be ready to enroll.
Graduate Admissions Checklist
Explore resources for newly admitted graduate students, including information about orientation and enrolling in classes.
Global Ambassadors
Our Global Ambassadors are current international students who are excited to talk to you about all things UMBC! They have a wide variety of backgrounds, areas of study, and personal interests. Chat with someone using the popup at the corner of this page.
UMBC is an institution that fosters community and diversity, and students can find support anywhere.