Eligibility Requirements
The amount and types of financial aid are determined by Federal, State, and Institutional guidelines. Federal and most State financial aid programs are based on need. Students must reapply each year for most of these programs. Eligibility for financial assistance depends upon many factors. Being eligible does not guarantee that you will receive an award, since award selection criteria are not the same as eligibility criteria.
Federal Financial Aid
Before you receive an award, you must first be eligible. To be eligible to receive financial aid, you must:
- Complete the online Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
- Be a U.S. citizen or an eligible non-citizen
- Be a high school graduate or have earned its equivalent, the General Education Diploma (G.E.D.)
- Be enrolled as a regular student in an eligible program
- Have a valid social security number
- Not be in default on a Federal Student Loan or owe a refund to a Federal Grant Program
For more information on Basic Federal Eligibility Criteria for Federal Student Aid, click here.
Financial assistance from most Federal programs is based on need. Your award depends on you and your family’s ability to meet college costs.
State and Federal programs have separate formulas for determining the family’s ability to contribute to college costs.
The Office of Financial Aid determines a student’s financial aid eligibility, not FAFSA. Students are required to be in compliance with the Financial Aid Office’s Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards.
Maryland Scholarships and Grants for BCCC Students
Students attending Baltimore City Community College (BCCC) may qualify for a variety of Maryland state scholarships and grants administered by the Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) through its Office of Student Financial Assistance (OSFA). These programs support Maryland residents in accessing and completing higher education by providing financial assistance based on need, academic achievement, and career pathways.
BCCC students are encouraged to explore the following opportunities and review eligibility, deadlines, and application requirements on the MHEC website:
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Edward T. and Mary A. Conroy / Jean B. Cryor Memorial Scholarship Program – Provides financial assistance to eligible Maryland residents, including military families, veterans, public safety employees, and their dependents. [mhec.maryland.gov]
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Howard P. Rawlings Program of Educational Excellence Awards – Includes the Educational Assistance Grant and Guaranteed Access Grant, offering need-based aid to help cover college expenses.
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Legislative Scholarships (Senatorial and Delegate) – Awarded by Maryland state senators and delegates to students residing in their legislative districts; may be need- or merit-based.
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Maryland Community College Promise Scholarship – A “last-dollar” scholarship that may cover tuition and mandatory fees for eligible BCCC students after other aid is applied.
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Part-Time Grant – Provides financial assistance to eligible students enrolled less than full-time (information available through MHEC’s state aid programs overview).
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Workforce Development Sequence Scholarship – Supports students enrolled in approved workforce training programs that lead to licensure, certification, or employment.
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Workforce Shortage Student Assistance Grant (WSSAG) – Provides funding for students preparing for careers in high-demand fields such as healthcare, education, and public service.
Next Steps for BCCC Students
Students should complete the FAFSA or MHEC One-App and regularly log into the Maryland College Aid Processing System (MDCAPS) to track eligibility and awards. Many programs have priority deadlines (often March 1 or April 1), so applying early is strongly encouraged.
For personalized assistance, contact the Financial Aid Office to ensure you maximize all available state funding opportunities.
MHEC One App for Undocumented Students
The qualified children of undocumented immigrants who are eligible for in-state tuition under §15–106.8.of the MD Education Article are eligible to apply for various State financial aid grants and scholarships through the Maryland Higher Education Commission. To be considered for state financial aid complete the MHEC One App. For more information on the MHEC One App for Undocumented Students click here.
Contact
Financial Aid Office
Liberty Campus
Main Building
Room 24
Office:(410) 462-8500
Fax:(410) 462-7444