The Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) is the State of Maryland's higher education coordinating board, responsible for establishing statewide policies for Maryland's public and private colleges and universities. MHEC administers a variety of statewide financial aid programs, including grants, scholarships, and tuition waivers, for Maryland residents attending two- or four-year public or private colleges/universities in Maryland.
Most MHEC awards are based on financial need and/or merit, and are awarded in addition to aid offered by the institution. Students who wish to be considered for MHEC programs must submit the FAFSA by March 1st each year. We have provided additional information about some of these awards here. For a full list of MHEC's programs, deadlines, and any applicable separate application or eligibility requirements please visit their website.
MHEC begins their awarding process for the next academic year in late April. Eligible students are notified via e-mail to create an online MDCAPS account to view their award offer(s). Students must accept their award(s), submit any requested documents, and confirm/update their housing status and the institution that they plan to attend. Beginning in May, MHEC sends the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships weekly rosters listing students who have accepted their state award(s). This funding is then added to the student's Financial Aid Inquiry in myUMBC.
It is your responsibility to respond promptly to any and all requests for additional information from UMBC's Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships and/or MHEC. Failure to do so may result in the adjustment or cancellation of some or all of your state award(s).