University of Maine Fort Kent (UMFK) ABSN program

[karahara]

Hi, I was accepted into umfk's ABSN program and was wondering if there is anyone who could answer a couple of questions about the program. Thanks!

[Radeeya]

karahara said:

Hi, I was accepted into umfk's ABSN program and was wondering if there is anyone who could answer a couple of questions about the program. Thanks!

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Hi, Karahara,

I am currently enrolled in the Nursing program at the University of Maine, Fort Kent (UMFK). It is in a small town located near the Canadian border. The ABSN (Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing) program begins with an online class in the Summer and then transitions to in-person classes throughout the program. In terms of housing, a two-bedroom apartment costs between $700-$800. Currently, I pay $800, but I share the apartment with a roommate. Only one airport serves the town, located about 1 hour and 15 minutes away. United Airlines is the only airline that operates here, so there is not much competition from other airlines (2 flights per day, one at 6:00 AM and the other later in the afternoon). 

The people of Fort Kent are kind and welcoming. My experience so far has been very positive. The nursing program offered in the area is affordable and is considered one of the best in the state, with high first-time NCLEX pass rates. In addition, the nursing faculty is incredibly supportive and provides a beautiful learning environment. The only downside is driving over an hour to clinical location sites (the Pediatrics clinical rotation is in Bangor, Maine, about 3 and a half hours away from Fort Kent).

[guillem92]

@Radeeya

How're you liking the program? Are you a Maine resident or decided to move when accepted? I'm from California and I have submitted my application and am waiting to hear back from them. My maine (ba dum ts) concern is getting my degree endorsed back into California, if anybody has any information about this or has had experience with that.

[guillem92]

Hello,

I know this thread is several years old, but has anybody been accepted into the ABSN program and how was your experience up in Maine. I keep reading about the program and I've read nothing but good reviews. I'm from California and applied to this upcoming cohort (2025-2026). I looked up the NCLEX passing rate and it looks like it has taken a toll; only 79-85% for first time takers.

I have also applied to a private school, Valparaiso University so waiting to hear back from them.

 

Thank you in advance to everybody!

[Radeeya]

guillem92 said:

@Radeeya

How're you liking the program? Are you a Maine resident or decided to move when accepted? I'm from California and I have submitted my application and am waiting to hear back from them. My maine (ba dum ts) concern is getting my degree endorsed back into California, if anybody has any information about this or has had experience with that.

I really enjoyed my time in UMFK's nursing program while I was up in Maine! It definitely had its ups and downs, but overall, it was a great experience. I graduated last December and passed my NCLEX. I moved back to Texas, and I'm currently practicing as an RN.

Since both Maine and Texas are compact states, endorsing my license was pretty straightforward. However, California isn't part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), so you'll need to register with the California Board of Nursing to take the NCLEX. I'd recommend reaching out to UMFK's Director of Nursing to ensure your transcript gets sent to the California Board of Nursing, as that's an important step in getting approved for the exam. Hope that helps, and best of luck with your application!