To find the best colleges in Maine in 2022, I’ve combined the most recent data from the most reputable college ranking systems and combined thousands of authentic reviews of students across the world to generate a unique College Consensus rating for each school.
There isn’t an even more thorough listing of the best schools and colleges in Maine anywhere else than this article.
I’ve also compiled all questions that are frequently asked about each school as well their answers solving any problems that you might have.
If you’re looking to get your license as a Registered Nurse go through our rankings of the Top 10 Most Prestigious Nursing Schools in Maine.
The best universities and colleges in Maine are multifaceted, highly innovative and composed of public research and regional institutions that makes experts think about how higher education could appear.
Maine’s top colleges aren’t numerous in terms of number, however they’re powerful in terms of recognition. With some of the most prestigious regional institutions within the North in their ranks.
Maine, of course, forms part of New England, and if New England is known for something, it’s its world-class liberal arts schools, and Maine is no different!.
Top 10 Best Colleges in Maine
Vastlearners.com ranked The University of Maine and Colby College in Waterville No.1 & 2 respectively as the best colleges in Maine
The list below shows the top 10 best colleges and universities in Maine:
Now, let’s take a more in-depth analysis into each school.
The University of Maine
Top 10 Best Colleges in Maine
- Name: The University of Maine
- Acronym: UMAINE
- Founded: 1865
- Motto: Dirigo I lead
- Colours: Blue and white
Established in 1865, The University of Maine is an independent public higher education institution that is located in the suburbs of Orono, a large town. Orono (population between 10,000 and 49,999 residents), Maine.
It is a coeducational institution. University of Maine (UMAINE) provides courses and programs that lead to acknowledged higher-education degrees, such as master’s and bachelor’s degrees, doctoral degrees and master degrees in a variety of fields of research.
The 155 year old US higher education institution has a policy of selective admission that is based on entrance exams as well as the students’ academic records and grades. The range of admission rates is between 90 and 100% as stated in the list below that makes the US higher education institution a most selective one. International students are invited to apply to enroll.
UMAINE also offers numerous academic and non-academic facilities as well as services for students, including housing, a library facilities for sports as well as financial aids and scholarships for exchange and study abroad programs online courses, online learning opportunities in addition to administrative assistance.
University of Maine’s 2022 Rankings
UMAINE is ranked:
- #1 in Maine
- #213 in National Universities (tie)
- #153 in Top Performers on Social Mobility (tie)
- #107 in Top Public Schools (tie)
Frequently asked questions and answers about the University of Maine
What exactly is the Maine Studies Program?
The Maine Studies Program at the University of Maine offers students the opportunity to study more about Maine through undergraduate and graduate programs and degrees.
It recognizes the significance of multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary ways of studying contemporary and historical issues like Maine’s environment, economy and the state’s diversity of population and different cultures.
What degree programs do you offer?
Two undergraduate degree options are to choose from. One is a minor of Maine Studies, available to all UMaine undergraduate student who is enrolled in a baccalaureate-level degree program (including online and campus-based).
To learn more, consult your advisor to academics or with the advice department at your college. You can also use the form on this page (it’s somewhat complicated) and send it back along with your signature by post addressed to Maine Studies Coordinator at the address: Maine Folklife Center, 5773 S Stevens Hall. They will verify and forward to the next person on the list.
It is an actual “track” in the Bachelor of University Studies (BUS) degree, which is offered by University of Maine’s Division of Lifelong Learning. More information about that degree is available at the DLL website and by contacting their advising department at the address dlladvising “at” maine.edu.
What degree in graduate studies are you offering?
Maine Studies graduate courses are provided by the Graduate School. The degree offered is an Maine Studies Track in the Masters of Art in Interdisciplinary Studies (MAIS).
This is a 30-credit program that is open to students who have completed a BA or BS degree from the University of Maine or elsewhere.
Further information about the degree, including application requirements and deadlines, can be found on this page.
Are your classes on-line as well as on campus?
The majority of Maine Studies classes (course prefix the MES) are offered online. Presently, UMaine employs its “Brightspace” system to deliver courses, and also Zoom for online meetings and seminars.
Every one of the Maine Studies degree programs are available to be earned through online courses. However, students can attend classes on campus and to a certain extent.
This permits them to attend classes in other departments that aren’t on the internet. Students are also allowed to take one or two courses from other campuses within the UMaine system, with prior approval by the Graduate School.
Do I have the option of taking courses and certificates at my own pace?
No and yes. All classes are offered in regular university sessions, including fall and spring semesters, as well as during summer. Participants in classes must complete their work on the same timeframe, that is determined by instructors.
Also, classes aren’t entirely self-paced, they’re on 7-week or 14-week classes determined by the institution and on schedules for courses set by instructors individually.
Students who are pursuing degrees are able to take the time they require to, provided they don’t exceed the their time limits at the university. The minimum time is six years for master’s degrees, though students might take longer, with the permission of their supervisor.
These policies and others are available within the Graduate Catalog. The undergraduate degree is a little more complex in terms of deadlines. These policies can be found inside the Undergraduate Catalog.
How do I get enrolled into an academic degree?
This is contingent upon the level of education. For traditional degree programs on campus begin with using the UMaine Admissions Office website. For the undergraduate online BUS degree, please contact DLL Advising Office.
How do I sign-up for classes?
If you are a current student, along with courses, you may typically register for graduate courses through MaineStreet.
The page from the UMaine Graduate School has information regarding registering for graduate classes as well as other situations that you may face.
For graduate students who are brand new who are new to the program, you must register via the MES Program Coordinator within the first semester of your studies. New undergraduate students must contact their advisor from their faculty or college’s advising office.
What types of classes are available?
Maine Studies Program Maine Studies Program offers a range of general and specialist classes on Maine Studies.
A complete list of current courses is available HERE. Additionally, the program is based on courses from various areas, including anthropology history as well as gender studies, women’s and gender studies and political science, as well as art, Franco-American studies, and Native-American Studies, among others.
Our course page contains a variety of these courses too however new courses are constantly added.
Colby College
- Name: Colby College
- Acronym: CC
- Founded: 1813
- Motto Lux: Mentis Scientia
- Knowledge: is the Light of the Mind
- Colours: Royal blue and priscilla gray
It was established in 1813. Colby College is a non-profit private higher education institution in the liberal arts situated in the rural setting of the city of Waterville (population between 10,000 and 49,999 residents), Maine.
Ranked #2 in Maine, Colby College (CC) offers programs and courses leading to official recognised higher educational degrees like bachelor degrees, doctoral degrees, and doctoral research.
This 207 year old US higher education institution has a policy of selective admission which is based on a student’s previous academic record and academic grades.
The acceptance rate range is 10-20% , making the US higher education institution a highly selective institution. International students are invited to apply to be enrolled.
CC also offers numerous academic and non-academic amenities and services for students, including accommodation, libraries and athletic services, facilities for financial aid, scholarships for study abroad, exchange and study programs, and administrative support.
Colby College Rankings:
- #2 in Maine
- #17 in National Liberal Arts Colleges (tie)
- #29 in Best Undergraduate Teaching (tie)
- #5 in Best Value Schools
- #36 in Most Innovative Schools (tie)
- #193 in Top Performers on Social Mobility (tie)
Frequently asked questions about Colby College
How can I apply for Early Decision using the Common Application?
Early Decision applicants must to sign their Common Application Early Decision Agreement. It is also recommended to mention your Colby Common Application Supplement which deadline you’re applying for under and ask that your counselor provide your senior grade for your first term together with your transcript.
Do I have to drop any other applications to colleges if are admitted early decision to Colby?
Yes. To be sure you are adhering to the Early Decision Agreement, and in order to be fair to other colleges and applicants, you have to stop all other applications in a matter of minutes and not make any further applications.
What will happen to my application if not accepted early decision?
In certain instances students are informed of the fact that applications are evaluated in March, along the Regular Decision application. Students can submit additional applications to complete their applications and are informed of their final admissions decisions within the first week of April. In other instances students are informed at Early Decision that they will not be admitted to Colby. Our belief is that speaking upfront about this information allows students who aren’t admitted enough time to look at other colleges.
If I submit an Early Decision and am denied Do I have the right to apply for Regular Decision?
No. No. The Office of Admissions will inform that you whether your application is considered through the Regular Decision process.
Can I request financial help if have applied for early decision?
Yes. Students who are admitted Early Decision can apply for financial aid. Your financial aid will be the exact same, regardless of whether or not you’re admitted to Early decision or Regular Decision. In order to apply, you need to submit your College Scholarship Services profile form.
When will I learn about financial assistance?
The estimated aid amount will be included with your admissions decision in the event that all necessary documents have been received by Colby in time. The estimate of financial aid will be finalized once we’ve reviewed your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) along with other necessary documents.
What if the amount of financial aid isn’t enough to permit me to get into Colby?
Colby is committed to ensuring the financial aid eligibility requirements for each student we accept. If we are able to offer the opportunity to you, then we will wish to see you enrolling here. The first thing you need to make is contact us to ask for a review of your aid eligibility. In some instances it is possible that we will not be able to modify the aid you receive, however we would like to assess your financial situation and assist you and your family to discover a way to cover expenses for college.
What time do I need to take the standardized tests required If I’m applying for Early Decision?
If you’re applying to Early Decision I, you must pass all tests before November 15th. The Early Decision II applicants must complete all tests required on or before January 1.
What are the benefits of using Early Decision?
Early Decision is a clear declaration that Colby is your top choice college. Applying for ED lets students admitted early Decision to finish their college admission plans earlier in the academic year. Additionally students who have applied EDI and get accepted usually did not spend time on other admissions applications.
Are there any negatives to using Early Decision?
A lot of students don’t have a specific first choice college. In this scenario, they should not make an application for Early Decision. The college of their choice may change during the course of their senior year.
Bowdoin College
- Name: Bowdoin College
- Acronym: BC
- Founded: 1794
- Motto: Ut Aquila Versus Coelum (As an eagle towards the sky)
- Colours: White and black
It was established in 1794. Bowdoin College is a non-profit private college for higher education in the liberal arts situated in the suburbs of the city of Brunswick (population between 10,000 and 49,999 residents), Maine.
Third best in Maine, Bowdoin College (BC) offers programs and courses leading to recognized degrees from higher education across a variety of fields of study. Check out the uniRank degree levels and the areas of study below for more information.
This 226 year old US higher education institution has a policy of selective admission which is based on entrance tests as well as the students’ academic records and grades.
The range of admission rates is between 10-20% which makes it a US higher education institution a one of the most selective institutions. International students can apply for admission.
BC offers a variety of academic and non-academic services and services for students, including accommodation, libraries and sports facilities or financial aids for study abroad, exchange and study programs, and administrative support.
Bowdoin College’s 2022 Rankings
Bowdoin College is ranked:
- #3 in Maine
- #6 in National Liberal Arts Colleges (tie)
- #10 in Best Undergraduate Teaching
Frequently asked questions about Bowdoin College
What are your hours of operation?
Time of Day: Monday-Friday 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Evening Hours (student staff): Sunday-Thursday 5:00-10:00 PM
Find the latest hours of peer tutoring by checking the online calendar of appointments.
Certain holidays and breaks we might be closed or operate with a limited number of hours but they will update our homepage for any announcements.
Could I study here?
Yes. You can come in! Many students love our facility where you can grab the pleasure of a cup of tea instant hot cocoa or coffee when you’re here ❤️
What classes are tutors available to teach during the evening hours of Baldwin CLT tutoring times?
“Q-Tutors,” also known as “Q-Tutors” help with the following classes:
- BIOL 1101/1109
- CHEM 1101/1109/2250
- ECON 1101/1102/2555/2556
- MATH 1600/1700/1750/1800/2000
- Biostats
- Econ Stats
- Psych Stats
Bates College
- Name: Bates College
- Acronym: Bates
- Founded: 1855
- Motto: Amore Ac Studio (With Ardor and Devotion)
- Colours: Garnet
It was established in 1855. Bates College is a non-profit private higher education institution in the liberal arts situated in the urban setting of the city of Lewiston (population of 10,000-49,999 people), Maine.
Ranked 4th in Maine, Bates College (Bates) provides programs that lead to official acknowledged higher-education degrees like bachelor degrees in a variety of fields of study.
This 165 year old US higher education institution has a strict admissions policy which is based on entrance tests as well as the students’ academic record and their grades.
The range of acceptance rates is between 10-20%, making it a US higher education institution the one of the most prestigious institutions.
International students are invited to apply to be enrolled. Bates also offers numerous academic and non-academic amenities and student services, such as housing, a library facilities for sports as well as financial aid and/or scholarships for study abroad, exchange and study programs, and administrative support.
Bates College’s 2022 Rankings
Bates College is ranked:
- #4 in Maine
- #25 in National Liberal Arts Colleges
- #11 in Best Undergraduate Teaching (tie)
- #34 in Best Value Schools
Frequently asked questions about Bates College
Where can I see my admission decision?
You can view your admission decision by logging into your Application Status Page.
Do I have the right to visit campus?
We are accepting a restricted amount of registered visitors to guided campus tours. Following the direction of health officials from the public, in order to safeguard our community’s safety visitors must register to visit the campus in a formal manner and abide by the Bates Admission Visitor Agreement. We are unable to accept walk-ins as of now. We look forward to seeing you soon and thank to cooperate!
To sign up for an on-campus visit, go here
What do I need to know about the cost of Bates could cost?
They offer greater than $37 million of grants to students each year. The average amount of financial aid which includes work, loan, and grant totaling $51,099.
The federal average student loan amount of Bates seniors who completed their studies in the year 2019 was $13,552, which is less than half of the average for the nation.
Does Bates “superscore”?
Yes! They’ll take into consideration your top sections from either test like the SAT and the ACT.
University of New England
- Name: University of New England
- Acronym: UNE
- Founded: 1831
- Motto: Great Questions. Great Answers.
- Colours: Blue and white
It was established in 1831. University of New England is an educational institution that is private and non-profit situated in the suburbs of the Biddeford town.
Ranked #5 in Maine, University of New England (UNE) provides courses and programs that lead to official acknowledged higher-education degrees, such as master’s and bachelor’s degrees, doctoral degrees, and doctoral research.
The 189-year-old US higher education institution has a strict admissions policy which is based on entrance tests as well as the students’ academic record and their grades.
The range of admission rates is between 80 and 90%, which makes it a US higher education institution the most selective one. International students are encouraged to apply for admission.
UNE offers a variety of academic and non-academic amenities and services for students, including libraries, housing and sports facilities as well as financial aids and scholarships as well as study overseas and exchange programmes as well as online and online learning opportunities and administrative support.
University of New England’s 2022 Rankings
- #5 in Maine
- #249 in National Universities (tie)
- #211 in Top Performers on Social Mobility (tie)
- #332 in Nursing (tie)
Frequently asked questions about University of New England
What support for candidatures are I able to access?
Support is offered in many ways throughout your candidature, Your Principal Supervisor is your primary contact person who will guide you in all aspects during your research journey.
All newly admitted HDR candidates must take part in an induction offered with Research Services that offers a variety of professional and personal enhancement programs to help you gain a high-level experience.
The program is offered on the Armidale Campus of UNE on a regular basis. UNE also hosts the annually HDR Postgraduate Research Conference that is designed to provide everyone HDR applicants the opportunity to present their research in a formal conference setting.
At UNE we offer a fantastic support system for students on campus and online. We’re here for you to help in your studies, career advancement and life beyond the classroom.
From personal to administrative assistance, our goal is to make sure your university experience is as simple and enjoyable as you can!
UNE offers support for students and student services which includes assistance for international students as well as Aboriginal as well as Torres Strait Islanders students.
HDR candidates report biannually of their progress, just as are their supervisors. Furthermore, every HDR candidate is required to complete a significant event called The Confirmation of Candidature.
It is completed within 12 months from the date of their first day as full-time students (or an equivalent part-time student) in order to move their status between probationary and confirmed.
This will ensure that the applicant has developed a credible research project using a suitable methodology .
A expert panel in this field will assess the ability of the candidate to be able to compete successfully with their project within the timeframes of their course.
If there are concerns regarding your progress, it is most likely an intervention plan is implemented to fix the obstacle. It could also be caused by a failed Confirmation of Candidature outcome or conditions on the offer not being fulfilled.
Do I have the right to continue to enroll as a student in an HDR degree even if I was not successful in a scholarship application?
HDR candidatures are accepted all through the year. If you’ve applied for a stipend and weren’t successful during this application round, then you can apply again for the next round of scholarship. UNE HDR Research Training Program (RTP) paid tuition spots are available to successful Australian permanent residents, residents of the country as well as New Zealand citizens, year all year. Learn more about this program. Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) Domestic Scholarships.
University of Southern Maine
- Name: University of Southern Maine
- Acronym: USM
- Founded: 1878
- Motto: Connecting You with Tomorrow
Established in 1878, University of Southern Maine is an independent public higher education institution situated in the city setting of the tiny town of Portland (population between 50,000 and 249,999 residents), Maine.
Ranked #6 in Maine, University of Southern Maine (USM) provides courses and programs leading to official higher education degrees, such as bachelor degrees, pre-bachelor diplomas, master’s and bachelor’s degree, doctoral degrees, and doctoral degrees in a variety of areas of research.
This 142 year old US higher education institution has a strict admissions policy that is based on the student’s past academic record and academic grades.
The admissions rate is 80-90% which makes it a US higher education institution the less selective institution. International students are encouraged to apply for admission.
USM also offers numerous academic and non-academic amenities and services for students, including housing, a library and sports facilities or scholarships, financial aids as well as exchange and study abroad programs online courses, possibilities for distance learning in addition to administrative support.
University of Southern Maine’s 2022 Rankings
University of Southern Maine is ranked:
- #6 in Maine
- #131 in Regional Universities North
- #80 in Top Performers on Social Mobility (tie)
- #47 in Top Public Schools
Frequently asked questions and answers about University of Southern Maine
Can my boyfriend/girlfriend/parents visit me on campus?
We always welcome visits from your home so in the case that they don’t hinder your studies.
If you require a formal letter that will assist with the process of obtaining a visitor’s visa or hotel recommendations, please contact us at the International Programs Office. Some notes on “overnight” guests if you live on campus
- Each guest must be aged 21 or older
- The guest is allowed to stay no more than 3 nights during one 14-day period
- To permit your guest to stay , all guests in the room must agree that the guest is allowed to stay.
Do I need to open a bank accounts in Maine?
If you’re only planning to stay for a semester, we don’t recommend you start accounts with banks. If you’re staying longer than that, there are several banks near campus that should be adequate to meet your requirements.
How do I obtain an US Social Security Number?
It all is contingent upon. Some students are not qualified. It is contingent on a variety of factors , such as the type of program you’re involved in (ESOL exchange, ESOL. ) as well as whether or not you’re legally able for work authorization within the US and if you are employed.
In general, undergraduate and graduate degree students can apply for a Social Security number if they hold an employment opportunity on campus.
What should I do with my phone on my cell?
Students should inquire with their provider of cell phones at home to find out whether you are able to get the international SIM card that you can use on your phone when you are on vacation. This will reduce fees for roaming and permit you to use the same mobile in US.
Another alternative is to use a prepaid plan. When you arrive to America, United States, students can purchase a new mobile with an prepaid plan at every Wal-Mart as well as Target.
When the time comes to go home, you’ll not be able to think about cancelling or changing your plan.
What types of activities are there for students at campus?
USM offers a broad range of student groups and activities for both and on both the Portland as well as Gorham Campuses.
Students are often involved in clubs that are related to their academic majors, for instance majors in chemistry can be part of their own Chemistry Club.
However, it’s not the only choice! We have active political student groups, outdoor-focused student groups , and much more. A large portion among our college students with an organization called the Asian American Association.
Whatever your passions, USM has an opportunity to participate. Clubs and groups that are new are always welcomed If you are unable to find a group that you’re interested in, then you can begin your own.
I’ve been told that Maine offers a variety of outdoor activities. Is there a group or campus office that could assist me in experiencing these?
It is the University of Southern Maine has an Outdoor Recreation department which offers inexpensive outdoor excursions and other events to students.
Previous events include camping, skiing snowboarding, white water rafting, and much other activities.
The schedule of these events will be made available to you upon arrival at the campus in the fall.
Do I have the ability to work on campus?
Only graduate and undergraduate degree holders are able to be employed on the campus, and the number of jobs available is very limited. Students should not anticipate to to find work on campus.
We will be discussing work during orientation , and we suggest that you talk directly with an employee from the International Programs office since everyone’s circumstances and eligibility could differ slightly
Husson University
- Name: Husson University
- Acronym: HU
- Founded: 1898
- Motto: Character and Humility
- Colours: Green and gold
It was established in 1898. Husson University is a non-profit private institution of higher education situated in the suburbs of the Bangor town.
Husson University (HU) offers courses and programs that lead to recognised higher educational degrees, such as undergraduate degrees (i.e. certificates diplomas, diplomas or affiliate or foundation) master’s degrees, bachelor’s degrees, doctoral degrees within various subjects of research.
The 122-year-old US higher education institution has a strict admissions policy that is based on entrance exams as well as the students’ academic records and grades.
The admissions rate is 70-80% , making the US higher education institution an extremely selective institution. International students are invited to apply for admission.
HU offers a variety of academic and non-academic amenities and services for students, including libraries, housing and sports facilities as well as financial aid and scholarships for exchange and study abroad programs as well as online and online learning opportunities in addition to administrative support.
Husson University’s 2022 Rankings
Husson University is ranked:
- #7 in Maine
- #299 in National niversities
- #51 in Top Performers on Social Mobility (tie)
- #492 in Nursing (tie)
University of Maine
- Name: University of Maine at Machias
- Acronym: UMM
- Founded: 1909
- Colours: Green and white
It was established in 1909 and is now the The University of Maine at Machias is a non-profit , public state institution of higher education in the liberal arts situated in the rural setting of the tiny town Machias (population between 2,500 and 2500 inhabitants), Maine.
University of Maine at Machias (UMM) provides courses and programs that lead to recognised higher educational degrees, such in pre-bachelor degree ,bachelor degrees that cover various subjects of study.
The 111-year-old US higher education institution has a strict admissions policy.
The institution of higher education has an admissions policy that is open to all. International applicants can apply for admission.
UMM also offers numerous academic and non-academic facilities as well as services for students, including housing, a library and sports facilities or financial aid online courses, online learning opportunities, in addition to administrative services.
University of Maine’s 2022 Rankings
University of Maine is ranked:
- #8 in Maine
- #213 in National Universities (tie)
- #153 in Top Performers on Social Mobility (tie)
- #107 in Top Public Schools (tie)
Unity College
- Name: Unity College
- Acronym: UC
- Founded: 1965
- Motto: America’s Environmental College
- Colours: Green and white
Established in 1965, Unity College is an independent private higher-education institution situated in the countryside of the tiny village of Unity (population between 2,500 and 2500 inhabitants), Maine.
Unity College (UC) offers programs that lead to recognised higher educational degrees, such in pre-bachelor degree, bachelor degrees in different subjects of study.
The 55-year-old US higher education institution has a strict admissions policy which is based on entrance tests and the student’s academic record and their grades.
The admissions rate is between 90-100 percent, that makes the US higher education institution a less selective institution.
UC offers a variety of academic and other facilities and services for students, including housing, a library facilities for sports as well as financial aids and/or scholarships as well as study in exchange and abroad programs, and online classes and the possibility of distance learning in addition to administrative support.
Unity College’s 2022 Rankings
Unity College is ranked:
- #9 in Maine
- #22 in Regional Colleges North (tie)
- #12 in Best Colleges for Veterans (tie)
- #4 in Most Innovative Schools (tie)
Maine College of Art
- Name: Maine College of Art
- Acronym: MECA
- Founded: 1882
- Motto: Educate artists for life
- Colours: Orange
It was established in 1882. Maine College of Art is an independent private higher-education institution situated in the city setting of the Portland city.
Maine College of Art (MECA) offers programs and courses that lead to recognized higher education degrees, such as bachelor degrees in a variety of fields of study.
This 138 year old US higher education institution has a policy of selective admission that is based on entrance exams as well as the students’ academic records and grades.
The range of admission rates is 60-70%, making it a US higher education institution one of the most selective institutions. International students are eligible to apply for admission.
MECA offers a variety of academic and non-academic services and services for students, including accommodation, libraries or financial aid, scholarships and/or financial aid in exchange and study abroad programs online courses, options for distance learning and administrative support.
