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IT'S NEVER TOO EARLY TO START APPLYING FOR SCHOLARSHIPS!
COLLEGE & CAREER EVENTS CALENDAR
This page provides details and registration links for all upcoming events. If you are looking for events specifically pertaining to financial aid, CLICK HERE.
UPCOMING EVENTS!
Check back regularly—this page will be updated as new events are scheduled.
Dual Enrollment Information Session
Tuesday, November 4th
IN-PERSON: 11:15 a.m.
VIRTUAL: 6:00-7:00 p.m.
Interested in taking college courses while you're still in high school? Join for an information session aobut Dual Enrollment to learn about the process and the courses you can take. The in-person meeting will take place in the Media Center during lunch; a virtual session will be offered at 6:00-7:00 p.m. the same day. For more information, email jodie_m_ackerman@mcpsmd.org.
NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED
FAFSA Q&A
Tuesday, November 4th | 6:30 p.m.
Get your questions answered to get your FAFSA submitted on time with experts from Collegiate Directions.
MCPS MICUA On-the-Spot Admissions Event
Wednesday and Thursday, November 5th and 6th | 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.
We are excited to offer on-the-spot admissions opportunities with Maryland Independent Colleges and Universities for MCPS 12th grade students. Participating schools include Hood College, Capitol Technology University, Goucher College, MICA, Mount St. Mary's University, Washington Adventist University, and St. John's College. Interested students should contact Ms. Lyons or click the link below to register.
Inside the College Admissions Maze: A Parent’s Roadmap
Wednesday, November 5th | 6:30-7:45 p.m.
Join to make sense of the college admissions complexities, get answers to your questions, and gain clarity on where to go from here. Empower yourself to help your child navigate this exciting and nerve-wracking journey with confidence. This workshop is recommended for all grades.
The Grades That Get You Into College
Wednesday, November 5th | 6:30 p.m.
Colleges consider a student's GPA, which reflects their academic performance, a crucial factor in the admissions process. Join experts from The Princeton Review to learn more in this free session.
College Planning Case Study
Thursday, November 6th | 8:00 p.m.
Join for a live webinar designed to reframe the conversation around testing timelines, list-building strategies, application workloads, and student well-being. Unlike traditional case studies focused only on mock admissions, this one-hour program provides a real-world look at the college process.
9th Grade College Campus Field Trip to George Washington University
Friday, November 7th
Ninth graders will have the opportunity to tour George Washington University, learn what life is like on a real college campus, and more.
The University of Chicago: How to Get in and What to Know
Friday, November 7th | 4:00 p.m.
Are you considering applying to the University of Chicago? Whether you are beginning the college search process or finalizing your list, this is a great opportunity to learn all about UChicago and hear expert tips on how to get in from IvyWise college admissions counselors Victoria, former Assistant Director of Admissions at UChicago, and Christine, former Assistant Director of Admissions at Yale and Georgetown. Victoria and Christine will share insights into the latest application data at UChicago and what the upcoming admissions cycles may look like for those hoping to study at the university.
Capitol Technology University VOLT Day
Saturday, November 10th | 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.
VOLT is an engineering event by Capitol Tech for high school students that provides a day of hands-on experiences in our on-campus labs. Participants will discover future career pathways and interests in engineering tech while exploring technology equipment, solving problems, and participating in a mini design challenge with our faculty and student mentors.
Goucher College Shadow Day
Monday, November 10th | 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.
Ready to sample life as a Goucher student? Register for Shadow Day to attend classes and explore campus with a STEM/Psych, Creative Writing, or Business student. It's the perfect intro to academic life at Goucher.
Ask Me Anything: Open Zoom
Tuesday, November 11th | 10:00-11:00 a.m.
Parents and caregivers may join this open Zoom session to ask questions about any college- or career-related topic. Let me know how I can help you!
Montgomery College Paying for College Series:
Financial Aid Programs
Wednesday, November 12th | 6:00 p.m.
The Paying for College Series will break down the essentials of financial aid, scholarships, costs, billing, and more. Whether you’re a student, parent, or counselor, these sessions are designed to help you make informed decisions and feel confident about paying for college and career training.
Supporting Your Student: What Comes Next?
Wednesday, November 12th | 8:00-9:00 p.m.
Are you wondering how to support your student after they’ve submitted their college applications? Join admissions counselors from Coalition member colleges as they discuss what families can expect next—from rounding out college lists, understanding financial aid offers, handling waitlists and rejections, and attending admitted student visits. Bring your questions and leave ready to help your student navigate these important next steps.
University of California: How to Get in and What to Know
Wednesday, November 12th | 7:00 p.m.
Are you considering applying to a school in the University of California (UC) system? With nine unique campuses for undergraduate students — including some of the world’s best-known institutions like UC Berkeley, UCLA, and UC San Diego — the UC system attracts hundreds of thousands of applicants each year, making it one of the most competitive public university systems in the U.S. Join for expert tips on identifying which campus (or campuses!) would be the best fit for you, navigating the UC application, and earning a coveted acceptance letter. They will share insights into the latest application data for the University of California system and what the upcoming admissions cycles may look like for those hoping to study at one of the university’s campuses.
Finding Your Fit: Researching & Choosing the Right College
Thursday, November 13th | 7:00 p.m.
With thousands of colleges to choose from, figuring out where to begin can feel daunting. That’s why Collegewise and Going Merry have partnered to bring you this exclusive webinar. In this session, Collegewise counselor Gretchen Gleason will break down what matters most when evaluating schools and how to use your time effectively.
Capitol Technology University Open House
Saturday, November 15th | 8:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.
Tour the campus and labs, connect with admissions, and meet faculty and current students.
GIS Day with the Department of Geographical Sciences at the University of Maryland, College Park
Wednesday, November 19th | 6:00-8:00 p.m.
REGISTRATION CLOSES NOVEMBER 3rd
The Department of Geographical Sciences commemorates GIS Day every year with an Open House in November. See below details about GIS Day 2025. High school students are invited to an array of activities, including a lecture, a campus tour, lunch at a dining hall and much more. Excused absence notes are provided. Email jkchap16@umd.edu with questions.
In-Person FAFSA/MDCAPS Completion Session
Wednesday, November 19th | 6:00-8:00 p.m.
Do you need help completing your financial aid applications? Get one-on-one assistance with your FAFSA, MDCAPS or MSFAA applications and get questions answered in person at Magruder High School. Assistance will be available in English and Spanish.
Sesión presencial para completar la FAFSA/MDCAPS
Miércoles 19 de noviembre | 6:00-8:00 p.m.
¿Necesita ayuda para completar sus solicitudes de ayuda financiera? Reciba asistencia personalizada con sus solicitudes FAFSA, MDCAPS o MSFAA y resuelva sus dudas en persona en la Escuela Secundaria Magruder. La asistencia estará disponible en inglés y español.
How to Maximize Merit Aid
Thursday, November 20th | 7:00 p.m.
Topics for this event will include what merit aid is and why it's such a big deal, types of merit aid, how to maximize institutional aid, how to find schools that give merit aid, and private scholarship success tips.
Careers in the Trades with the Marines
Friday, November 21st | In the Career Center during lunch
Stop by the Career Center to hear a presentation about careers in the trades with the Marines, like HVAC, electrical, mechanics, engineering, and more.
SIGN UP IN NAVIANCE OR JUST STOP BY
Clark Construction Crafting Futures Event
Monday, December 8th | 8:30 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.
REGISTRATION CLOSES DECEMBER 1st
Get ready to gain hands-on experience at the Skilled Trades Expo, and learn about rewarding construction careers from industry professionals shaping our region. Join Clark Construction, Monumental Sports & Entertainment, and dozens of local trade contractors for a dynamic, hands-on event exploring in-demand, high-paying careers in the skilled trades.
Summer Activities Colleges Love
Thursday, December 4th | 8:00 p.m.
It may be cold outside, but it's time to start planning your summer! This is the time of year when summer opportunities open up for high school students. Target your plans and maximize your options with this free webinar from The Princeton Review.
Meet-a-Pro: Karen Jordan, Veterinarian
Tuesday, December 9th | 6:30 p.m.
Meet-a-Pro is a collaboration between the Montgomery County Career Advising Program and Magruder High School to host discussions with professionals in different fields, bringing information about career options to high school students. This event is hosted by Magruder High School but is open to all MCPS families.
Advanced Placement 101
Wednesday, December 10th | 6:30 p.m.
Taking AP courses is a great way to challenge yourself and boost your high school transcript with college-level work. Join us to learn more about how the AP Program works, how to earn college credit for taking AP courses, and what strategies will help you prepare for AP exams in May.
In-Person FAFSA/MDCAPS Completion Session
Wednesday, December 10th | 6:30-8:00 p.m.
Do you need help completing your financial aid applications? Get one-on-one assistance with your FAFSA, MDCAPS or MSFAA applications and get questions answered in person at Magruder High School.
Ask Me Anything: Open Zoom
Wednesday, December 10th | 12:30-1:30 p.m.
Parents and caregivers may join this open Zoom session to ask questions about any college- or career-related topic. Let me know how I can help you!
How to Maximize Merit Aid
Thursday, November 20th | 7:00 p.m.
Topics will include whether it's worth filling out the financial aid forms, cost reduction tactics and strategy, how to use tax-efficient money and versatile financial vehicles, and other lesser-known tactics.
Crack the AP Code: Everything You Need to Know for 2026 Exams
Thursday, December 11th | 8:00 p.m.
Is your child ready to succeed on this year’s AP exams? This webinar will demystify the evolving Advanced Placement program, highlighting curriculum updates and a broad transition to digital exams. Learn how to assess your child’s current academic standing, identify their goals, and help them build their best pathway forward.
Montgomery County Recreation College Sports Recruiting Panel
Saturday, December 13th | 3:00-6:00 p.m.
LOCATION: BAUER REC CENTER, 14625 BAUER DRIVE, ROCKVILLE, MD 20853
Many teenagers dream of playing sports at the college level but often lack the information needed to make that dream a reality. Featuring current and former college coaches and athletic directors, this panel will educate both parents and teens on the recruiting process, tuition assistance, and how to successfully navigate the path to collegiate athletics.
Start Early, Stress Less and Stand Out: Insider College Admissions Advice for 8th-11th Graders
Thursday, January 8th | 6:30 p.m.
Perfect for parents of 8th–11th graders, this free webinar with expert college consultant Renee Minnich will share insider strategies to reduce stress, navigate recent admissions changes, and help your student stand out in today’s competitive college landscape. In this session, you’ll discover how admissions are changing and what it means for your child, what factors matter most in college acceptance decisions, how to build a strong narrative through high school achievements, ACT/SAT prep tips (should your child take the tests or skip them?), and strategies for building a balanced list and finding hidden gem colleges.
Research Tips for Evaluating College Fit
Tuesday, January 13th | 8:00 p.m.
Join experts from The Princeton Review as they discuss research tips that will help you make the most of your research time and know what to consider and prioritize as you learn about potential colleges and universities.
In-Person FAFSA/MDCAPS Completion Session
Wednesday, January 14th | 6:30-8:00 p.m.
Do you need help completing your financial aid applications? Get one-on-one assistance with your FAFSA, MDCAPS or MSFAA applications and get questions answered in person at Magruder High School.
Ask Me Anything: Open Zoom
Thursday, January 15th | 2:00-3:00 p.m.
Parents and caregivers may join this open Zoom session to ask questions about any college- or career-related topic. Let me know how I can help you!
TuitionCents 2026: FAFSA 2026 Walkthrough + Understanding Your Student Aid Index
Thursday, January 15th | 7:00-8:00 p.m.
Experts will guide you through the process of maximizing your potential financial aid eligibility. Presented by The College Funding Coach.
Montgomery College Paying for College Series:
Scholarships
Wednesday, January 21st | 6:00 p.m.
The Paying for College Series will break down the essentials of financial aid, scholarships, costs, billing, and more. Whether you’re a student, parent, or counselor, these sessions are designed to help you make informed decisions and feel confident about paying for college and career training.
Planning Productive College Tours
Tuesday, February 3rd | 8:00 p.m.
You know it's important to visit the campuses of the colleges you're interested in, but how can you make your visits productive and efficient? Make sure to see the things you want to see and get your questions answered by planning ahead of time. Learn how with experts from The Princeton Review.
Meet-a-Pro: Evelyn Smittenaar, Physical Therapist Assistant
Thursday, February 12th | 6:30 p.m.
Meet-a-Pro is a collaboration between the Montgomery County Career Advising Program and Magruder High School to host discussions with professionals in different fields, bringing information about career options to high school students. This event is hosted by Magruder High School but is open to all MCPS families.
In-Person FAFSA/MDCAPS Completion Session
Wednesday, Febrero 18th | 6:30-8:00 p.m.
Do you need help completing your financial aid applications? Get one-on-one assistance with your FAFSA, MDCAPS or MSFAA applications and get questions answered in person at Magruder High School. Assistance will be available in English and Spanish.
Sesión presencial para completar la FAFSA/MDCAPS
Miércoles 22 de febrero | 6:30-8:00 p.m.
¿Necesita ayuda para completar sus solicitudes de ayuda financiera? Reciba asistencia personalizada con sus solicitudes FAFSA, MDCAPS o MSFAA y resuelva sus dudas en persona en la Escuela Secundaria Magruder. La asistencia estará disponible en inglés y español.
Ask Me Anything: Open Zoom
Thursday, February 19th | 9:00-10:00 a.m.
Parents and caregivers may join this open Zoom session to ask questions about any college- or career-related topic. Let me know how I can help you!
Financial Aid Award Letters–How to Appeal and Win More Aid
Thursday, February 19th | 7:00-8:00 p.m.
The financial aid award process is tricky. Make sure you're informed so you can advocate for yourself (or your student) if your award is less than you need.
Montgomery College Paying for College Series:
You've Applied for Aid...Now What?
Wednesday, March 11th | 6:00 p.m.
The Paying for College Series will break down the essentials of financial aid, scholarships, costs, billing, and more. Whether you’re a student, parent, or counselor, these sessions are designed to help you make informed decisions and feel confident about paying for college and career training.
Ask Me Anything: Open Zoom
Tuesday, March 17th | 12:15-1:15 p.m.
Parents and caregivers may join this open Zoom session to ask questions about any college- or career-related topic. Let me know how I can help you!
Capitol Technology University: Aviation Visitor's Day
Saturday, March 21st | 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m.
LOCATION: TIPTON AIRPORT, 7515 GENERAL AVIATION DRIVE, HANGAR 80, FORT MEADE, MD 20755
Capitol Technology University invites prospective students and their parents to explore the world of possibilities that our Aviation Professional Pilot program has to offer. Are you interested in learning more about Capitol Tech's Aviation Professional Pilot program? Attend this program to learn more.
How to Maximize Merit Aid
Thursday, March 19th | 7:00 p.m.
Topics for this event will include what merit aid is and why it's such a big deal, types of merit aid, how to maximize institutional aid, how to find schools that give merit aid, and private scholarship success tips.
Smart Student Loans–How to Borrow Without Risking Your Future
Thursday, April 16th | 7:00-8:00 p.m.
This session will cover understanding the total cost of loans, federal direct loans and repayment, Parent PLUS loans and repayment, private loans and repayment, and student loans vs. HELOC. Presented by The College Funding Coach.
Ask Me Anything: Open Zoom
Thursday, April 23rd | 1:30-2:30 p.m.
Parents and caregivers may join this open Zoom session to ask questions about any college- or career-related topic. Let me know how I can help you!
Montgomery College Paying for College Series:
Understanding Your Costs and Bill
Monday, May 4th | 6:00 p.m.
The Paying for College Series will break down the essentials of financial aid, scholarships, costs, billing, and more. Whether you’re a student, parent, or counselor, these sessions are designed to help you make informed decisions and feel confident about paying for college and career training.
Hidden Gems – Colleges That Deliver Big Returns on Investment
Thursday, May 21st | 7:00-8:00 p.m.
Discover the hidden gems that deliver outsized returns on your investment and set students up for long-term success. Not all great investments come with a flashy name, and when it comes to college, some of the best-kept secrets offer the strongest payoffs. Whether you’re focused on minimizing student debt, maximizing earning potential, or simply getting the best bang for your buck, this session will help you uncover underrated schools or programs with great relative returns.
Montgomery College Paying for College Series:
How to Avoid Having Your Courses Deleted
Wednesday, June 11th | 6:00 p.m.
The Paying for College Series will break down the essentials of financial aid, scholarships, costs, billing, and more. Whether you’re a student, parent, or counselor, these sessions are designed to help you make informed decisions and feel confident about paying for college and career training.
Build Your College List With Cost in Mind–A Mid-Year Planning Guide
Thursday, June 18th | 7:00-8:00 p.m.
Plan ahead as you start to think about your college list and learn the benefits of considering cost while building your list. Presented by The College Funding Coach.
The College Seesaw—Balancing Dreams with Financial Reality
Thursday, July 16th | 7:00-8:00 p.m.
Choosing a college isn’t just about where your child wants to go. It’s about what your family can afford without disrupting the parent or child’s financial future. Learn how to set clear financial boundaries, identify schools that offer significant scholarship money, navigate the emotions of saying "no", what tools to use to do your research, and more.
In-State Tuition for Out-of-State Students—Legal Loopholes and Strategies
Thursday, August 20th | 7:00-8:00 p.m.
Is your child dreaming of attending an out-of-state college, but the cost seems insane? The biggest issue in college planning is safeguarding your family’s financial future while supporting your child’s aspirations. This is incredibly challenging when your child is interested in attending an out-of-state school. This session will share essential knowledge and strategies for making out-of-state college more affordable.
FAFSA 2026–What You Need to Know Before Filing
Thursday, September 17th | 7:00-8:00 p.m.
This session will provide an overview of FAFSA changes and what you'll need to file on time.
Demystifying the CSS Profile–What High-Cost Schools Really Ask
Thursday, October 15th | 7:00-8:00 p.m.
This session will go over what the CSS Profile is, which schools require it, and what you need to submit it.
How to Find Scholarships That Your Child Can Actually Win
Thursday, November 15, 2026 | 7:00-8:00 p.m.
Searching for scholarships can feel like looking for a needle in a haystack. Get the resources you need to be efficient and proactive to make sure you have the money you need to afford your college journey!
Paying for College Without Sacrificing Retirement
Thursday, December 17, 2026 | 7:00-8:00 p.m.
Topics will include whether it's worthwhile to complete financial aid forms, cost reduction tactics and strategies, using tax-efficient money and versatile financial vehicles, and more.
PAST EVENT RECORDINGS
PAST EVENT RECORDINGS
Recordings to past events are made available whenever possible. Please browse the past events below.
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This session's panel includes an MCPS Career Advisor and college counselors from McDaniel College and UMD.
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This session's panel includes college counselors from McDaniel College and George Washington University.
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