Maryland Scholarships & Grants for 2025 - 2026

Overview of Maryland Scholarships & Grants

Maryland offers a wide range of scholarships, grants, and financial aid programs for both in-state and out-of-state students. This guide covers automatic merit scholarships from major universities, full-ride opportunities, statewide grants, and private-school awards. Whether you’re a high school senior, current college student, or parent planning ahead, you’ll find reliable information to help make higher education in Maryland more affordable.

Guaranteed Access/Delegate Scholarships and 2+2 Transfer grants are notable.

What Scholarships and Grants Are Available in Maryland?

Maryland offers a comprehensive mix of scholarships and grants for students pursuing higher education at public, private, and community colleges. Two cornerstone programs are the Maryland Educational Assistance Grant (EAG) and the Guaranteed Access (GA) Grant, both administered by the Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC). The EAG assists low- and moderate-income students, while the GA Grant provides full tuition coverage for the state’s neediest residents. Additional programs—such as the 2+2 Transfer Scholarship for community college graduates and Workforce Development Sequence Scholarships for career training—help ensure Maryland students can access affordable education aligned with the state’s workforce priorities.

Are There Scholarships in Maryland for High School Students?

Yes. High school students in Maryland have access to several key programs designed to support their transition into college. The Maryland Delegate Scholarship and Maryland Senatorial Scholarship are awarded annually to graduating seniors who plan to attend an in-state college or university. These awards are funded through the Maryland General Assembly and distributed by individual legislators based on academic achievement, community involvement, or financial need. Students are encouraged to contact their local representatives for application instructions and deadlines, which vary by legislative district.

What Are Full-Ride Scholarships in Maryland?

Full-ride scholarships in Maryland cover the complete cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, and, in some cases, room and board. Two of the most prestigious are the Banneker/Key Scholarship at the University of Maryland, College Park and the Meyerhoff Scholars Program at UMBC (University of Maryland, Baltimore County). The Banneker/Key Scholarship recognizes exceptional academic performance and leadership, while the Meyerhoff Scholars Program supports high-achieving students committed to pursuing STEM degrees, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. These programs are highly competitive and often include mentorship, research opportunities, and enrichment activities in addition to financial support.

What Scholarships Are Available for Undergraduate Students in Maryland?

Undergraduate students in Maryland can apply for a range of state and institutional scholarships through the Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC). The Maryland Higher Education Commission Scholarships include popular programs such as the Educational Assistance Grant, the Guaranteed Access Grant, and the 2+2 Transfer Scholarship, which helps community college graduates continue their education at four-year universities. Additionally, the Cybersecurity Public Service Scholarship Program provides funding for students pursuing degrees in cybersecurity and requires recipients to work for a Maryland government agency upon graduation.

Are There Private High School Scholarships in Maryland?

Yes. Maryland’s BOOST (Broadening Options and Opportunities for Students Today) Scholarship Program helps low-income families afford private or faith-based K–12 education. Administered by the Maryland State Department of Education, the BOOST program awards tuition assistance based on household income and financial need. Additionally, many private schools, dioceses, and community organizations throughout Maryland offer merit- and need-based scholarships for students seeking private school opportunities.

What Is the Maryland Educational Assistance Grant?

The Maryland Educational Assistance Grant (EAG) provides need-based aid to full-time undergraduate students attending eligible colleges and universities in Maryland. Applicants must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by March 1 each year. Awards can be as high as $3,000 per year, depending on financial need and available funding. The grant is renewable annually for students who maintain satisfactory academic progress and continue to meet eligibility criteria. The program ensures that more Maryland residents can afford college without taking on excessive debt.

What Are MHEC Scholarships?

MHEC scholarships encompass a wide range of state financial aid programs administered by the Maryland Higher Education Commission. These include the Guaranteed Access Grant for low-income students, the 2+2 Transfer Scholarship for community college graduates, and Workforce Development Sequence Scholarships for students in short-term career training. MHEC also oversees targeted programs such as the Teaching Fellows for Maryland Scholarship and the Maryland Community College Promise Scholarship, which offers last-dollar assistance to eligible students attending Maryland community colleges.

Are There Scholarships for STEM Students in Maryland?

Yes. Maryland actively supports students pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The Cybersecurity Public Service Scholarship provides full tuition and required fees for students who agree to work in cybersecurity roles for Maryland state or local government agencies after graduation. Another key program is the Maryland Technology Internship Program, which connects students and recent graduates with paid internships at technology companies across the state. Additionally, universities like the University of Maryland and Johns Hopkins University offer institutional STEM scholarships that reward academic excellence and research potential.

What Is the Maryland Senatorial Scholarship?

The Maryland Senatorial Scholarship is awarded by each state senator to residents of their district pursuing postsecondary education within Maryland. Awards can range from $400 to $11,800 per year and may be renewed for up to four years. The scholarship may be based on merit, need, or a combination of both, depending on each senator’s selection criteria. Students must complete the FAFSA and submit an application directly to their state senator’s office. Eligible recipients may use the scholarship at public and private colleges, universities, and community colleges throughout Maryland.