Aid Programs: Need-Based Grants

Federal Pell Grant

This need-based grant is available only to undergraduate students without a prior bachelor's degree who demonstrate exceptional financial need according to a federal eligibility formula.

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG)

To be considered for limited SEOG funds, students must be eligible to receive the Federal Pell Grant, must submit a FAFSA by UM's Priority Deadline, and must meet other criteria defined by the university's packaging policy.

Federal Academic Competitiveness Grant (ACG)
Federal National Science and Mathematics Access to Retain Talent Grant (SMART)

Federal ACG and SMART grants are available to undergraduates who are Pell Grant recipients.

Institutional Grants (UM Grant, Frederick Douglass Grant, and UM Scholarship)

To be considered for one of these three need-based university grants, undergraduate students must demonstrate high financial need, submit a FAFSA by UM's Priority Deadline, and meet other criteria defined by the university's packaging policy.

Maryland State Grants

The Maryland State Scholarship Administration (MSSA) offers and administers the following scholarships and grants: Educational Assistance Grant, Guaranteed Access Grant, House of Delegates Scholarship, Senatorial Scholarship, and Distinguished Scholarship. They are based on need, merit, or both. To be considered for most MSSA aid, your FAFSA must have been postmarked by March 1.