The state aid picture
Maryland administers state aid through the Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC), including need-based grants, a near-free community-college program, and scholarships awarded through state legislators.
Need-based state grants
- Howard P. Rawlings Guaranteed Access (GA) GrantA large need-based grant for the highest-need Maryland students meeting income and GPA requirements.
- Howard P. Rawlings Educational Assistance (EA) GrantA broader need-based grant for Maryland residents.
- Senatorial & Delegate ScholarshipsAwarded through Maryland state legislators — apply via your senator/delegate.
Promise & free-college programs
The Maryland Community College Promise Scholarship is a last-dollar award that can make community college tuition-free for eligible residents in approved programs.
College savings (529 plan)
Maryland's Maryland 529 plan offers a state income tax deduction for contributions.
Applying & the state agency
Nearly all state aid starts with the FAFSA. From there:
- File the FAFSA earlyIt's the trigger for state grants and many scholarships
- Register with Maryland Higher Education CommissionCreate the state agency's student account to track and claim awards
- Confirm your detailsVerify residency, GPA, and enrollment as required
- Meet any extra requirementsSome programs need a separate form, GPA, or service commitment
- Reapply every yearState aid is awarded annually
Deadlines & timing
State deadlines are typically much earlier than the federal FAFSA deadline, and some aid is first-come, first-served until funds run out. File the FAFSA as soon as it opens (in the fall) and confirm the state's specific priority date.
Tips to maximize state aid
- File the FAFSA as early as possiblePriority deadlines and limited funds reward early filers
- Confirm your residency and eligibilityMost state aid is for residents attending in-state schools
- Maintain the required GPAMerit awards usually require you keep a minimum GPA to renew
- Use the state agency's portalTrack, confirm, and claim your awards there
- Check renewal rules each yearKnow what keeps your award going
Frequently asked questions
- How do I get Maryland state aid?File the FAFSA (and any state form) by the deadline; Maryland Higher Education Commission administers the programs.
- Is it need-based or merit?Both — Maryland offers need-based grants and merit scholarships.
- Are the deadlines earlier than federal?Usually yes — file early, as some aid is first-come.
- Can I use it out of state?Most Maryland aid is for in-state schools; check each program.
- Does this list private scholarships?No — this guide covers official state programs only.
Key facts
- Need-basedRawlings GA & EA Grants
- Community collegeMD Community College Promise
- LegislativeSenatorial & Delegate Scholarships
- 529Maryland 529
- AgencyMaryland Higher Education Commission
Where to learn more
Confirm current programs, amounts, and deadlines with the state agency: