You need to apply for state scholarships through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The deadline to apply is March 1 and you must complete the FAFSA every year. It is strongly suggested that the form is mailed no later than February 15th and that you make a copy before mailing it. Another suggestion is to get a receipt from the post office when this form is mailed. (Proof of the mailing in case the form is lost in the mail.)

You may qualify for a state scholarship even if you are not awarded a PELL grant. If receive your student aid report and need to make corrections you will need to send the State Scholarship Administration a copy of the corrected Student Aid Report once you
receive it.

The State of Maryland awards more than $48 million in financial aid to over 35,000 Maryland residents annually. The administration of the financial aid funds is handled by the State Scholarship Administration. The awards are dependent on the continued availability of
state funds.

The following awards require an additional application that may be obtained from your State representative.

• Delegate Scholarship
• Senatorial Scholarship

How do I Know if I Received a State Award?

The State Scholarship Administration will send you a letter along with information regarding the award you have been offered. You will first review the letter to see if corrections need to be made. Verify your social security number, the college listed, and address information. Any necessary changes may be made on the letter. You must sign the letter and check the appropriate box. Send the original letter to the State Scholarship Administration by the deadline listed in the letter after making a copy for your files. You may also check the status of your state award by accessing the MSSA website - www.mhec.state.md.us.

Your school will receive a roster from the state listing your name, social security number, the type of grant or scholarship, the semester(s), and the amount of the award(s). Once you have enrolled for classes you need to let the financial aid office know. The college will need to certify that you meet the requirements of your award before payment can be made.