It's time to rethink college tours
Traditional campus tours feel impersonal and can leave you with more questions than answers. You’re just a face in the crowd following a scripted tour led by a random guide. Is this really the best way to make one of the biggest decisions of your life?
SchoolScoops is the smarter, more personal way to tour colleges
Private and personalized tours
With traditional tours you’re just a number in a big group, making it hard to ask the questions that matter most. With SchoolScoops 1-on-1 tours and video chats you can ask all the questions that are important to you.
Choose your own guide
On a typical college tour, the school assigns you a guide. SchoolScoops lets you pick a guide who matches your academic interests, hobbies, and personality. You'll get authentic insights and advice from someone who truly gets you.
No scripts, just scoops
Traditional campus tours are essentially a sales pitch—the guide works for the school and their job is to show you the highlights. SchoolScoops guides don’t work for their school, so there’s no sales pitch—just genuine advice to determine if the school is a good fit.
Find the school for you
Choosing where to go to college is a major decision and a huge investment. SchoolScoops 1-on-1 tours and video chats go beyond the basics to help you make a well-informed college decision.
Can't make it to campus?
Connect with a student of your choice for personalized advice and insider insights during a 1-on-1 video chat
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What customers are saying
Get to know University of Maryland
The University of Maryland is a top public research university with strengths in science, engineering, business, arts, and humanities. It fosters innovation, diversity, and public service to prepare students for real-world impact.
Overview
Established in 1856, UMD is a public research university located in College Park, Maryland, just outside Washington, D.C. As the flagship institution of the University System of Maryland, it offers a diverse range of programs, a strong emphasis on research, vibrant campus life, and competitive athletic teams.
Size
As of fall 2023, UMD's total enrollment is 40,813 students, with 30,608 undergraduates and 10,205 graduate students.
Acceptance rate
UMD has an acceptance rate of approximately 44%. The middle 50% of admitted students have an SAT score between 1290 and 1480 or an ACT score between 29 and 34.
Cost
For the 2024–2025 academic year undergraduate tuition and fees were $10,086 for in-state students and $39,464 for out-of-state students. Graduate tuition and fees vary by program; specific details can be found on UMD's official website. Approximately 55% of undergraduates receive some form of financial aid, with an average aid package of $9,000.
Ranking
According to U.S. News & World Report, UMD is ranked #44 out of 436 National Universities.
Academics
UMD offers over 90 undergraduate majors and more than 120 graduate programs across various disciplines. The university maintains a 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio, fostering close interaction between students and professors.
Traditions
The University of Maryland's traditions include Testudo, the beloved terrapin mascot whose statue students rub for good luck, the Maryland Day campus-wide open house, the annual Homecoming Week with a parade and tailgating, the First Look Fair for student organizations, and the iconic Terp Thon, a dance marathon raising money for children’s hospitals.
Campus landmarks
The University of Maryland's best landmarks include the Testudo statue at McKeldin Library, the iconic Memorial Chapel, the expansive McKeldin Mall, Byrd Stadium, and the Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center, all reflecting the campus's pride and vibrancy.
Student body
Over 75% of University of Maryland students are Maryland residents, with out-of-state students primarily from New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and California, alongside a diverse international student body from over 100 countries.
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Become a guideYour University of Maryland questions, answered
What GPA do you need for the University of Maryland?
UMD typically requires a 4.0 or higher GPA, with the average enrolled student having a 4.45 GPA. 94% of students admitted had at least a 4.0 GPA, making strong academics essential for admission.
Is the University of Maryland prestigious?
Yes, UMD is considered prestigious, ranking #17 among public universities and #44 nationally in the 2025 U.S. News & World Report. It is also highly ranked in engineering, business, computer science, and artificial intelligence programs.
Is it hard to get into UMD?
UMD is moderately selective, with an acceptance rate of around 44%. Admission can be competitive, especially for certain programs, and applying early action may improve your chances.
What majors is the University of Maryland known for?
UMD is best known for its programs in Computer Science, Business, Engineering, Social Sciences, Biological Sciences, Health Professions, and Psychology.
How much is tuition at the University of Maryland?
For the 2023-24 academic year, tuition is $11,505 per year for in-state students and $40,306 per year for out-of-state students.
Why is the University of Maryland well-known?
UMD is recognized for its top-ranked business, criminology, engineering, and political science programs. It offers strong academic opportunities and a dynamic learning environment for students.
Does the University of Maryland guarantee housing?
Yes, first-year students are guaranteed on-campus housing if they complete their housing agreement, enrollment confirmation, and deposit by May 1 (or December 15 for spring semester).
How can you take a campus tour of the University of Maryland?
UMD offers in-person guided tours, self-guided tours, and virtual tours. You can schedule a guided tour through the UMD Admissions website, explore campus independently with a self-guided tour map, or take a virtual tour online.
Does UMD offer private campus tours?
Yes, through SchoolScoops, you can book a private campus tour led by a student guide of your choice.
Interested in other schools?
SchoolScoops also offers tours and video chats at many other schools
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