UMS Adult Degree Scholarships

Opening Doors Scholarship

The Opening Doors Scholarship is a renewable scholarship supporting adult and independent students attending one of the campuses of the University of Maine System in pursuit of higher education.

Eligibility

Must meet the following criteria:

  • Must be a resident of the state of Maine
  • Must be enrolled in a UMS institution
  • Must be a newly enrolled student pursuing a bachelors or associates degree; OR seeking a credential in a high demand field as identified by the Maine Department of Labor (External Site).
  • Must demonstrate financial need as determined by a completed Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
  • Must be registered at least part time or higher: six to eight credits
  • Maintain continuous enrollment and GPA of 2.5 or higher for renewed funding
  • Must be considered an independent student, as identified by FAFSA.

Scholarship Amounts:

Multiple awards available:

  • Six to eight credits – $500 per semester
  • Nine to 11 credits – $750 per semester
  • 12+ credits – $1000 per semester

Application Process:

  • New applications are due by September 1 and January 1. Any applications received after these dates will be considered on a case-by-case basis
  • Renewal certifications are due by September 1

Click here for more information and the application for the Opening Doors Scholarship.

Adult Degree Completion Scholarship

The University of Maine System (UMS) has an Adult Degree Completion Scholarship fund helping Maine residents return to school and complete their academic studies. For many, these may have begun years ago, and were not completed for a variety of reasons.

These funds are dedicated to support adult students returning to college after an absence of at least two (2) years or more and who are completing their very first baccalaureate or associate degree. Applicants may qualify for up to $4,000 per academic year for up to eight (8) consecutive semesters.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Must be a resident of the state of Maine.
  • Must be a matriculated student at a UMS institution seeking a first baccalaureate or associate degree.
  • Must be an undergraduate reentry student who has experienced a gap (two years or more) in the pursuit of post-secondary education, from any college institution.
  • Must have a minimum of 30 credits earned from any institution toward your degree.
  • Must demonstrate financial need as determined by a completed FAFSA.
  • Must be registered at least part time: 6‐8 credits per semester.

Application Process:

  • New applications are due by September 1 and January 1. Any applications received after these dates will be considered on a case-by-case basis
  • Renewal certifications are due by September 1

Click here for more information and the application for the Adult Degree Completion Scholarship.