URock Announces: The Pine Tree State Pledge - Zero Tuition - Our Pledge to Maine Students

Sun, 11/05/2017 - 5:45am

Beginning with spring semester 2018, new in-state full-time and part-time transfer students who have earned at least 30 transferable credits, and are new to the University of Maine System will not pay any out-of-pocket expenses for tuition and mandatory fees at the University of Maine at Augusta through the Pine Tree State Pledge. This applies to students enrolled in UMA degrees through University College at Rockland.

In academic year 2018-19, The Pine Tree State Pledge will also be available to qualified and eligible entering full-time first-year students.  UMA is committed to providing affordable access to a university education, and help students manage the growing costs of a college education.

“The Pine Tree State Pledge has tremendous potential for Maine people and is consistent with UMA’s mission to transform the lives of students of every age,” said UMA President Rebecca Wyke.  “With campuses at Augusta and Bangor, as well as eight University College Centers located across the state, and now with the Pine Tree State Pledge, another barrier to completing a degree has been lowered.”

The Pine Tree State Pledge seeks to remove the financial barrier to obtaining a college degree.  Working adults with some college credits and no degree may find the Pine Tree State Pledge the perfect opportunity to re-enter higher education and complete their degree.  Degree completion can pave the way for Maine’s workforce to seek promotions, consider career changes, or obtain higher salaries.

First-year students, and their families, can save on college costs by commuting from home to earn a degree.  Additionally, UMA’s wrap-around student services ensure that every enrolled student has access to the support needed to succeed and overcome challenges.

UMA has removed the location barrier with a state-wide presence offering degrees in 2 campuses, 8 University College Centers and online. Many of UMA's degree programs are available entirely online. Others are available at a distance, utilizing online, video conference, and ITV learning options at centers & sites across the state. This allows UMA students to study full or part-time while balancing family or work commitments.

“Zero-tuition is only part of the equation,” said UMA Provost Joe Szakas, “at UMA we provide the single point of contact and wrap around support services to help students succeed.”

These services include academic and career advising, veterans’ services, and new student orientation and can be accessed in person at the Augusta and Bangor campuses, as well as University College Centers and online.

 

-------Pine Tree State Pledge details

Who is eligible to participate in the Pine Tree State Pledge?

  • New in-state full-time and part-time transfer students who have earned at least 30 transferable credits, and are new to the University of Maine System in Spring 2018.
  • New in-state, first-time full-time students in Fall 2018.
  • Must meet in-state residency requirements and be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen to receive Federal financial aid.
  • Must be deemed eligible to receive Federal Pell grants as part of the financial aid package for the academic year.
  • Must have met all entrance requirements and be regularly admitted to a bachelor’s degree program.
  • Must maintain minimum credit hour enrollment to remain qualified:
    • First-Year Students – 30 credits per academic year for a total of four years in a row, and maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.00 at the end of each academic year.
    • Transfer Students Full-Time – 30 credits per academic year for a total of three years in a row, and maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.00 at the end of each academic year.
    • Transfer Students Part-Time – 15 credits per academic year for a total of six years in a row, and maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.00 at the end of each academic year.

How can I learn more about the Pine Tree State Pledge?

Contact UMA Admissions at 1-877-862-1234 or visit uma.edu/pinetreestatepledge

How much will I receive in tuition assistance?

The actual dollar amount will be determined after the application of all other grant aid received, including Pell Grant, Maine State Grant, University Grants and Scholarships, and any outside scholarships received that are dedicated to tuition costs. The amount can vary each of the four years, based on annual changes in the FAFSA eligibility criteria and availability of other grant aid assistance.

Will I need to borrow loans to attend UMA?

Students may use other grant funds and/or student loans to cover non-tuition expenses including commuting, textbooks and housing and meals.

How do I apply?

For Full-Time and Part-Time Transfers applying for Spring 2018

  • Complete the UMA Application for Admission by December 1, 2017
  • Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by December 1, 2017
  • FAFSA must be submitted annually to determine continued eligibility in the Pine Tree State Pledge program.

For First Year Students applying for Fall 2018

  • Complete the UMA Application for Admission by February 1, 2018
  • Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by March 1, 2018
  • FAFSA must be submitted annually to determine continued eligibility in the Pine Tree State Pledge program.

For more information contact University College at Rockland at 596-6906.