Scholarship Programs
A scholarship is financial aid that you do not have to pay back. You may qualify due to financial need, academic achievements or other talents, community involvement, or interest in certain career fields. There are many scholarship opportunities available* to help bridge the gap between the total cost of your education and what you or your family can afford to pay.
The first step in applying for any type of financial aid, including scholarships, is to fill out the Free Application For Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or Maryland State Financial Aid Application (MSFAA)*.
Scholarship Sources
HCC Educational Foundation
The Howard Community College Educational Foundation, Inc. (HCCEF) provides scholarships for HCC students through generous contributions from businesses, foundations, civic organizations, and individuals.
Criteria for HCCEF scholarships vary, and can be awarded based on financial need, academic merit, learning program, or special skills and talent.
The application requires that all students answer an initial set of questions to apply for scholarships with general criteria. Students will then be presented with additional scholarship opportunities that they may be eligible for, with additional questions. These additional scholarship applications are optional, but strongly encouraged to be considered for the most funding..
For best consideration, apply by the May 1 priority date for the following academic year!
We would like to thank our donors and organizations for the generous contributions they have made to support the success of our students. For a list of donors visit Recognition Societies.
Other Scholarships
- Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund - A fund designed for students who have been affected by COVID-19.
- Governor’s Emergency Education Relief (GEER) Fund - Created to facilitate workforce education opportunities during the COVID-19 global health pandemic.
- 2+2 Transfer Scholarship Program - Designed to assist and encourage transfer students from MD community colleges to attend a MD 4-year institution.
- Maryland Community College Promise - Created for recent high school graduates to attend one of Maryland's community colleges, starting with the 2019–2020 academic year
- Maryland State Student Assistance Programs - This includes grants and other financial assistance programs for education offered through the Maryland Higher Education Commission.
- Edward T. Conroy Scholarship & Jean B. Cryor Memorial Scholarship Program - Criteria specific to family members of military service members and public safety volunteers or employees.
- Legislative Scholarships - Delegate and Senatorial scholarships available to select students.
- Financial Assistance for International Citizens - Learn more about scholarship opportunities for international students.
- Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program - Grant program for study abroad.
- Regents Scholarships for Maryland Community College Transfer Students - Scholarships for nominated exceptional MD Community College students transferring to a University of Maryland (USM) institution.
Online tools can help you find and apply for even more scholarships. FastWeb search and College Board Fund Finder are recommended resources. Learn more.
Avoid Scholarship Scams
Don’t fall victim to these common scholarship and financial aid scams. Learn how to protect yourself with important consumer information from the Federal Trade Commission.
* Students who are US Citizens, Permanent Residents, Eligible Non-Citizens, and T Visa Holds should complete the FAFSA. Undocumented students and students who meet the non-resident exemption as described under §15–106.8. of the MD Education Article should complete the MSFAA.