Financial Aid
Howard Community College is committed to using the Principles & Standards of the College Cost Transparency Initiative in its student financial aid offer.
Welcome to Financial Aid services for Howard Community College! We pride ourselves in providing tremendous value for your education investment, and we do everything we can to help you find ways to ensure that a college education is within reach. Helping you achieve your goals starts with helping you identify ways to pay for college. For every reason you believe you can't reach your dream — Howard Community College says, yes you can! Below you will find all the information you need to apply for federal aid, scholarships, and more!
Federal Financial Aid Changes Effective the 2026-27 Academic Year
Recent federal legislation, known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), introduces significant changes to federal student financial aid programs beginning with the 2026–2027 academic year (effective July 1, 2026).
Key provisions of the legislation include new limitations and requirements for federal student loans, changes to repayment plans for both current and future borrowers, and revisions to Pell Grant eligibility. We understand that these developments may prompt questions and influence important financial planning decisions for students and their families.
The Student Financial Aid Office is actively reviewing guidance from the U.S. Department of Education and will share additional details as they become available. We remain committed to supporting students and families throughout this transition and are available to help and answer questions.
Please visit our Loan Q&A Information Page and StudentAid.gov for more information.
Additional Resources
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General Information
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Grants, Loans, and Scholarship Info
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Basic Needs Assistance
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Frequently Asked Questions
Have you completed the FAFSA? That is your first step. Even if you don't think you're eligible for financial aid, you'll never know until you apply!
Complete your FAFSA today! Be sure to use HCC Code 008175 so that we can start preparing a financial aid package for you right away.
Application
Start by visiting the link below and following the steps to apply. Once you are a student, you can view your financial aid application and award status by logging into myHCC Self-Service. Click on Financial Aid to view your checklist.
Sources of Financial Aid
Financial Aid is available through many sources. The U.S. Department of Education provides millions of students with grants, low interest loans, and work-study programs. The State of Maryland awards nearly $100 million in need-based grants and merit scholarships through more than 15 programs each year. Tuition Waivers are offered to students experiencing homelessness or who were in MD foster care.
In addition, HCC's Educational Foundation maintains endorsements and scholarship programs established through generous contributions from private businesses, foundations, civic organizations, and individuals.
There are many financial aid options out there, but you don't need to be overwhelmed. Begin by exploring the topics below, and know that Financial Aid Services here at Howard Community College is available to help you sort it all out.