Join your future classmates and get ahead before the fall semester! Take advantage of a special Summer Start tuition rate of $149/credit hour for one course (up to four credits). Choose from online courses running between May 11 and August 21.

Questions? Contact Summer Programs at 207.581.4750 or um.summerprograms@maine.edu

How to Get Started

The Summer Start Program includes a variety of options for you as a first-year student. Meet a core requirement and prepare for college success.

Be sure to note the start and end dates for courses as they vary.

To get started:

Step 1: Choose a Course

We provide a suggested list of courses for students who meet the criteria for the Summer Start Program. Students may take a course not listed, provided they have fulfilled the prerequisite requirement and received approval from the academic department or college. The Division of Lifelong reserves the right to review courses outside the suggested list for consideration.

Most of these courses meet core requirements. Some sections may be full. We will work with you to find an alternative if your selection is not available. Choose from the 2026 Summer Start Course List and see the course catalog for course descriptions.

Course modes: HB = hybrid/blended, WW = fully online (asynchronous), DS = online synchronous (courses meet at a specific time and day as noted)

Step 2: Complete the Summer Start Registration Form

All first-year students matriculating in 2026 receive a special Summer Start rate of $149/credit hour for one course (up to four credits).

For more information about costs, please visit the Student Business Services.

You may be eligible for financial aid.  If you have questions about your aid eligibility, please visit Student Financial Aid.

Find your textbooks by visiting the University Bookstore and selecting your course in the search tool.

For questions or to contact an advisor, please contact Summer Programs at 207.581.4750 or um.summerprograms@maine.edu.