Understanding Differential Tuition at the University of Maryland

Differential tuition is a pricing model where tuition costs vary based on academic programs or departments within a university. This article aims to explain how differential tuition works at the University of Maryland (UMD), addressing its purpose, implementation, and impact on students.

What is Differential Tuition?

Differential tuition is a system where certain academic programs or departments charge higher tuition rates than others. The rationale behind this model is that some programs, particularly those in high-demand fields like engineering, computer science, and business, require more resources due to smaller class sizes, specialized facilities, and the need for highly qualified faculty and staff.

Reasons for Implementing Differential Tuition

UMD, like many other universities, cites several reasons for adopting a differential tuition structure:

Decreasing Class Sizes: Smaller class sizes can enhance the learning experience, allowing for more personalized attention from instructors.
Improving Facilities: Certain programs require specialized equipment, labs, and technology, which necessitate additional funding.
Hiring New Faculty, Staff, and Advisors: Attracting and retaining top-tier faculty and providing adequate advising services are crucial for the success of these programs.

One of the primary goals of differential tuition is to provide additional resources to departments that need them most. For example, ten percent of the revenue generated from differential tuition may be allocated to increasing enrollment in engineering and computer science programs and adding business minors. This targeted investment aims to enhance the quality and accessibility of these programs.

Student Concerns and Transparency

The sudden announcement of differential tuition proposals has raised concerns among students. A change.org petition created in response to a proposed tuition increase reflects the student body's desire for consultation on such issues. Transparency and communication are essential for gaining student acceptance. Providing regular updates and demonstrating how students will directly benefit from the increased tuition can help alleviate concerns and foster support.

The Terp Payment Plan (TPP)

To assist students in managing their educational expenses, UMD offers the Terp Payment Plan (TPP). Administered through Nelnet Business Solutions, the TPP allows students to spread their tuition payments over monthly installments.

Key Features of the TPP

Monthly Installments: The TPP enables students to pay their tuition in manageable monthly installments over the academic year or by semester.
Enrollment Fee: A nonrefundable enrollment fee of $45.00 is charged per semester.
Nelnet Account Access: Students gain 24/7 secure access to their Nelnet accounts to set up and modify payment plan budgets, make online payments, and view scheduled payments.
Automatic Payments: Payments are automatically deducted from the enrolled payment method account on the 5th of each month, with a second attempt on the 20th if the initial attempt fails.

Important Considerations for TPP Users

Plan Sufficiency: Students are responsible for ensuring that their TPP amount covers all term charges, as the system is not directly connected to the UMD Student Account balance.
Adjustments: If charges increase or decrease after TPP enrollment, students must adjust their plan accordingly.
Coordination with Financial Aid: If additional aid or funding reduces the need for the TPP, students should request an adjustment to the remaining balance.

Late Payment Fees and Termination

Nelnet may assess a $40 late payment fee for failed initial monthly payment attempts. If both payment attempts fail, the plan will be terminated, and the remaining balance will be reflected on the student account. However, as long as the plan covers the full term balance and payments are made on time, students will not be subject to late payment fees by the school or course registration holds.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

UMD offers various forms of financial aid to help students cover the costs of their education.

Financial Aid for Graduate Students

Graduate students typically receive financial aid in the form of federal loans. To apply for financial aid, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year, starting on October 1st. Each form of aid has its own eligibility and application requirements, so it is crucial for students to investigate these details early to avoid missing deadlines.

Tuition Credits for Master's Students and Graduate Assistants

Due to differential tuition, Master's students receive a tuition credit valued at the prevailing standard in-state per-credit rate. In the Fall and Spring semesters, graduate assistants on 10-12 hour positions receive a tuition credit. Graduate Assistants wishing to enroll in the winter will receive a tuition credit. All Graduate Assistants are classified as in-state for tuition purposes.

Read also: Affording ECU

The Banneker/Key Scholarship

The Banneker/Key Scholarship is an undergraduate merit scholarship awarded to selected students for up to eight consecutive semesters. Recipients must maintain a minimum 3.20 cumulative GPA and successfully complete 30 credits per academic year. The scholarship does not cover the cost of winter and summer courses, miscellaneous fees, or required departmental fees.

Important Scholarship Policies

GPA Requirement: Students must maintain a 3.20 cumulative GPA, with one probationary semester allowed if the GPA falls below this threshold.
Credit Requirement: Students must successfully complete 30 credits per academic year, excluding AP, IB, and other pre-college credits.
Non-Stacking: These scholarships may not be combined with one another, and the total aid a student receives cannot exceed the cost of attendance.
Refunds: Refunds are not available until the student has registered for a minimum of 12 credits and all university charges have been paid.

International Students

International students, defined as citizens of another country wishing to enter the United States for the purpose of attending a university, may legally do so only with a visa, typically an "F" or "J" visa. UMD also enrolls resident and non-resident aliens, with visa eligibility affecting in-state status.

Billing and Payment Information

Viewing Bills and Making Payments

Students can view their bills online and make tuition payments through the Office of Student Financial Services and Cashiering. Payment options include credit or debit card (with a 2.85% processing fee), e-check, check, wire transfer, or cash. Sponsored students should use the third-party billing process.

Billing Statements and Account Inquiries

Monthly billing statements are generated at the end of each month, reflecting the student account status on that date. Students can use the "Student Account Inquiry" screen in Testudo for a live view of their bill, especially between billing cycles.

Employer Benefits

Many students utilize employer benefits to help fund their education. The Student Template can be used as a guide in explaining this process to employers, although it is not affiliated with the University of Maryland or the Robert H. Smith School of Business.

Read also: Withdrawals for College: A Guide

Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP)

Students are automatically enrolled in the Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) upon registering for classes, with the premium fee billed to their account. Students with existing insurance can waive SHIP by submitting a waiver by the specified deadline.

Math Courses

UMD offers a variety of math courses to meet the needs of different students.

Developmental Mathematics (MATH 080, MATH 090)

These courses are designed for students who need extra preparation in mathematics. They cover topics such as arithmetic readiness, real numbers and expressions, linear equations and inequalities, and quadratic equations and functions. The courses are graded on an A, B, C, NC basis.

College Algebra for Calculus (Math 100, MATH 1000, MATH 104, MATH 1040)

These courses are designed for students who plan on pursuing further science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) coursework that requires a thorough knowledge of functions and algebraic reasoning. They cover topics such as linear, quadratic, polynomial, power, exponential, and logarithmic functions.

Trigonometry for Calculus (Math 101)

This course is designed for students who plan on pursuing further science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) coursework that requires a thorough knowledge of functions and algebraic reasoning. This course is the second in a two-course sequence (together with Math 100) which prepares students for entry into Calculus I (Math 115).

Calculus Courses (Math 113, Math 115, Math 116)

These courses cover limits and continuity, derivatives and their applications, and integrals, with algebraic, exponential, and trigonometric functions and their inverses.

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