FAQs

 

WHEN ARE APPLICATIONS DUE?
Fee-free applications must be submitted my March 1. Application review will begin December 15.
See: Admissions Information

DO I NEED A CAR?
It makes life easier, but there is an excellent public transportation system in place including a UMBC shuttle bus free to students.
See: UMBC Transit Website

HOW MANY HOURS A WEEK DO I NEED TO WORK?

Being a graduate student is a full-time job; expect to work a minimum of 40 hours per week, depending on the specific requirements of your advisor.

I AM AN INTERNATIONAL STUDENT, WHAT SORTS OF RESOURCES ARE AVAILABLE TO ME TO MEET MY SPECIAL NEEDS (VISAS, PAYROLL ISSUES, ETC.)
Visit the IES website to address a wide variety of issues that international students must address.
See: IES website

HOW DO I FIND A PLACE TO LIVE?
Check out these websites for information regarding housing in the area
See: UMBC Graduate School Essentials website

I AM HAVING TROUBLE WITH REGISTERING (OR OTHER PAPERWORK ISSUES)
The Graduate Program Coordinator is the go to person for administrative issues, if she can’t help you she can certainly point you in the direction of someone who can.

Contact: chemgrad@umbc.edu

HOW DO I PICK A LAB TO ROTATE IN?
Download the Graduate Handbook and review the Research Rotation section.
See: Graduate Catalog and Handbook site

HOW LONG SHOULD I EXPECT IT TO TAKE TO OBTAIN MY PHD?

It typically takes 4-6 years to complete a PhD, depending largely on the progress of the research project.

HOW DO I AVOID PARKING FINES (AT ~$40 A PIECE)?

Register for classes as soon as possible then obtain a parking pass through your MyUMBC account. Parking services can provide you with maps to clearly indicate where you can park. Prior to obtaining a parking permit, metered parking is available for visitors.

MY CAR IS REGISTERED OUT OF STATE, DO I NEED TO SWITCH OVER TO A MARYLAND REGISTRATION?

Many students maintain out of state registration, but if you become a permanent resident of Maryland, you must register your vehicle and obtain a Maryland driver’s license.

ARE THERE ANY ALTERNATIVE SOURCES AVAILABLE FOR TEXTBOOKS?
HOW CAN I MEET WITH UMBC GRADUATE STUDENTS PRIOR TO MATRICULATING?
Attend a Chemistry Graduate Student Association (CGSA) meeting as a guest.