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Financial Aid include everything from gift aid (free money in the form of scholarships and grants) to earned money (like Federal Work Study) to student and/or parent loans. Financial Aid can come from an institution of higher learning itself, the Federal Government, your state government, or outside agencies and sources. There could be several different things you need to apply and several deadline you need to keep track of. Always consult with the Financial Aid Office at the schools you are interested in for more information and assistance. Below are several resources to help you find the most money for school.
AHS School Counselors recommend that each student applying to any post-secondary education opportunity (4-year universities, community colleges, trade schools) apply for financial aid by completing the FASFA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Even if you do not feel as though your family may qualify for any need-based aid, many institutions still need FASFA data to award scholarships and any institutional awards. It is also the way students will become eligible for federally-backed student loans and parents will become eligible for dederally-backed Parent Plus loans.
FAFSA is expected to become available for all Class of 2026 students (starting post-secondary education in Fall 2026) on October 1, 2025. Students and families should apply by March 1, 2025 to be considered for any financial aid that could be awarded by the State of Maryland.
FREE Application for Federal Student Aid
All Financial Aid starts here!
Application anticipated to open on October 1, 2025
Complete by March 1st* to be considered for State of Maryland Financial Aid
**Some colleges have earlier FASFA deadlines!**
You will submit a FASFA EACH year you are in post-secondary schooling.
College Scholarship Service Profile
Only SOME Colleges require this form in addition to also completing the FASFA
Find out if your school requires the CSS Profile here
Each school that requires the CSS Profile will have their own deadline for submission
Maryland College Aid Processing System
MDCaps is not a financial aid application but it does serve as the hub for accepting and processing any financial aid that comes from the State of Maryland through MHEC (Maryland High Education Commission)
It is important to keep up with to-do taks on MDCaps so you don't miss out on any state financial aid opportunities!
Helpful clickable links below!
Financial Aid Information Session with AACC (Anne Arundel Community College)
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