Completing the FAFSA is the single most important task you can do to get money for college. It’s the gateway to more than $150 billion in college grants, work-study funds, and federal student loans, as well as certain state-based aid.

Most students receive some type of financial aid, so you should fill out a FAFSA application even if you don't think you qualify. The FAFSA isn’t just for people who want or need federal student loans. The purpose of the FAFSA is also to determine aid you won't have to pay back, such as college scholarships, grants, and even work-study funding.

Some private scholarships require a FAFSA as part of their application process. That's why completing a FAFSA is so important!  Some colleges will not offer merit scholarships if you have not filed your FAFSA.

Merit-based aid is money given to students with special talents, skills or academic abilities

Need-based aid is available to those students who demonstrate financial need

Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC)

The Maryland H​igher Education Commission (MHEC) is the ​​State’s higher education regulatory and coordinating board, responsible for establishi​​ng statewide policies for Maryland public & private colleges and universities, as well as for the for-profit career sc​hools. MHEC also administe​rs more than $100 million each year through financial aid programs that positively impact students as they work to achieve their higher education goals.  

Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) 

MHEC Financial Aid Resources 

Use the MHEC One-App Guides below to create your account today! 

• Fee Waivers

• Free & Reduced Meal Application

• www.finaid.com

• Tax Information for Students

• Sallie Mae Video Series

• College Money Matters  (NEW!) 

• MoneyGeek.com - helpful guide explaining the different types of loans available to students &  guide explaining unfair student loan practices and how to protect yourself.

• MPT’s annual Ways to Pay for College - Maryland Public Television (MPT) continues its tradition of providing viewers valuable insights into successfully navigating the college selection and financial aid process with Ways to Pay for College.  Click here for the website to stream this program.

For students who do not qualify to complete the FAFSA

• MD-CAPS *All students should open an MD-CAPS account. Specifically for students planning to attend a Maryland college and/or university. 

• MHEC One App for Undocumented Students FAQs *MD-CAPS account must be created.