Scholarship Programs
Money may be available to help you afford your college education. Find out how to apply for scholarships.
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, it to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Review the 2018-2019 Application Process and file before the March 1, 2018 priority filing date.
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.
There is one application for HCCEF scholarships. A financial aid advisor will review your application and match you to available scholarships. You can review the full list of scholarships (link), or simply fill out the application.
For best consideration, apply by the June 1 priority date for the following academic year!
Other Scholarships
- NSF S-STEM Scholarship Program - For full-time students studying specific STEM programs. Learn more.
- 2+2 Transfer Scholarship Program - Designed to assist and encourage transfer students from MD community colleges to attend a MD 4-year institution. Learn more.
- 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. Learn more.
- 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. Learn more.
- Legislative Scholarships - Delegate and Senatorial scholarships available to select students. Learn more.
- Military Personnel, Veteran and Dependent Scholarships - Scholarships available for the military community. Learn more.
- Financial Assistance for International Citizens - Learn more about scholarship opportunities for international students.
- Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program - Grant program for study abroad. Learn more.
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.
*Please note: A full-time student schedule for either the fall or spring semesters generally consists of 12 to 18 credit hours. Only students who are enrolled for a minimum of 6 credit hours will be considered. Awards are granted for the fall and spring semesters.