For young people in Maine, the sky is certainly the limit, but if you want to get into any of these institutions, you’ll need to hit the books extra hard.

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In recent years, more people are expected to continue their education after finishing high school. Many jobs now require a college degree or specialized training. This shift has made higher education seem like a necessary step for success. As a result, students feel more pressure to attend college to keep up with the demands of today's job market.

Credit: Canva / Getty Stock
Credit: Canva / Getty Stock
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However, college isn't the right path for everyone, and that's okay!

Many successful individuals have thrived without a college degree, finding success through alternative routes such as vocational training or entrepreneurship. It's important to choose a path that feels right for you, whether that includes college or not.

Credit: Canva / Getty Stock
Credit: Canva / Getty Stock
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But if you were looking to continue your education after high school, our Pine Tree State is filled with fantastic options.

Maine offers a variety of choices for pursuing college degrees. Students can choose from community colleges like Eastern Maine Community College or Southern Maine Community College, which provide affordable two-year programs.

Credit: Jordan Verge / Townsquare Media
Credit: Jordan Verge / Townsquare Media
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There are also public universities like the University of Maine at Presque Isle, in Farmington, and at Augusta, with their flagship university in Orono, offering a wide range of bachelor's and graduate degrees.

Credit: Jordan Verge / Townsquare Media
Credit: Jordan Verge / Townsquare Media
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Private universities such as Husson University are another option, with specialized colleges like the New England School of Communications.

Credit: Jordan Verge / Townsquare Media
Credit: Jordan Verge / Townsquare Media
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With all of that being said, whether you're looking for a specific program or a more traditional college experience, Maine has something for everyone, but what are the hardest schools to get into?

Every year, Niche ranks the 'Hardest Colleges to Get Into in Maine,' and we have the updated list for 2025. These rankings consider factors like acceptance rates, test scores, and the overall competitiveness of each school. If you're curious about which Maine colleges made the cut, keep reading to see the top three hardest to get into.

These Are the 3 Hardest Colleges to Get Accepted into in Maine

Every year, Niche releases a list of the hardest colleges to get into in Maine. This ranking highlights schools that are the most selective in their admissions process. If you're curious about which Maine schools are the most competitive, keep reading!

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Gallery Credit: Jordan Verge

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