Welcome to USM: Your Next Steps
There are a few more important steps in your journey to becoming a Spire (see below).
But first, let's celebrate!
Celebrate this big step forward on social media!
Download or screenshot your favorite graphics below. Upload it to your own stories or post in your feed.
Download the Rectangular Graphic
Below are two file types that you can use to order your own yard sign. Ask your favorite local printer if they prefer a file with or without crop marks.
Proud to be a Member of #SpireNation
18 in. x 24 in.: 300 dpi, JPG file without crop marks
18 in. x 24 in.: Printer-friendly PDF with crop marks
Proud 糖心视频 Family
18 in. x 24 in.: 300 dpi, JPG file without crop marks
18 in. x 24 in.: Printer-friendly PDF with crop marks
USM's Spire Shop sells gifts and apparel for students, families, and alums! The shop is available on campus and online.
Your Next Steps
Below are six critical steps to becoming a Spire. Try to complete as many as possible before you attend a Registration Day.
1) Log Into eSpire
What's eSpire?
eSpire is the secure web portal where you'll:
- View course information
- Register for classes
- Pay bills
- View financial aid status
- Complete coursework
- See your grades
Logging into eSpire
You can access eSpire from the top of USM鈥檚 homepage, or directly at
- Enter your USM student ID number into the username field.
- Click 鈥楥ontinue鈥�
- Click on the 鈥淚 forgot my password鈥� link
- Enter your personal email on file with USM to receive a link via email to reset your eSpire password
Technology at USM
Access to a computer inside and outside of the classroom is an absolute necessity.
We strongly encourage all new students to have a personal laptop when they begin their studies.
USM will provide you with the latest Microsoft Office Suite, free of charge.
Remember, there are no computer labs at USM.
2) Apply for Financial Aid
File Your FAFSA Early
USM's ability to award aid depends on the availability of institutional, local, state, & federal funds.
The earlier you submit your , the greater your chances are of securing more aid.
You can apply anytime before the start of the school year. However, you can maximize your aid by submitting the FAFSA no later than April 1.
How to Apply
- Visit the FAFSA website at
- Be sure to use USM's Federal School Code: 001943
Visit stmary.edu/scholarships for more info on the FAFSA and Financial Aid.
Questions? Contact USM's Financial Aid Office at 913-758-4303 or finaid@stmary.edu
3) Visit USM
If you haven't already, you'll want to schedule a tour of our beautiful and historic campus.
Schedule an in-person or virtual campus visit at stmary.edu/visit. USM also offers several group visits to dive deeper into your major or audition for a fine arts scholarship.
4) Pay Your Deposit
Your $100* deposit reserves your seat in the classroom. This non-refundable tuition deposit is credited to your first semester's tuition upon enrollment.
- Visit our deposits webpage, and click on the "Undergraduate Students" link under the "Tuition Deposits" heading
- Call the Admissions Office at 913-682-5151 to pay by phone
*Note: For all new nursing and accelerated nursing students, the advance tuition deposit is $200.
Questions? Call 913-682-5151.
5) Reserve a Room
Most new students are required to live in the residence halls. USM has two residence halls 鈥� Maria and Berkel.
Living on campus requires a $200 housing deposit and a signed housing contract. Click the button below for more information.
Learn more about housing options here: more info
6) Sign Up for Registration Day
Finally, let's get you enrolled in classes!
Registration Day is a required event where you will meet with an advisor, set your class schedule, and take care of important business items. Plus, you鈥檒l meet new friends, connect with faculty members, attend a scholarship reception, and can ask questions about the USM experience.
Registration Days are held during the spring and summer prior to the start of classes. Dates are limited, so early sign up is encouraged.