Looking for tips on Financial Aid at UMBC

Hey guys, I'm a junior considering UMBC and wondering how the financial aid process works there. Does anyone have any experience or advice to share? Are there specific scholarships I should know about?

Hello! The first step in applying for financial aid at any school, including UMBC, would be to fill out the FAFSA. Once submitted, UMBC's Office of Financial Aid will review it to determine your eligibility for various forms of aid including federal, state, and institutional scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study options.

Regarding specific scholarships, UMBC offers numerous scholarships for incoming students, some of which are based on merit while others are on a need basis. An example of a merit scholarship is the Linehan Artist Scholars Program, which provides financial support to candidates with exceptional talent in the arts. Another example is the CWIT (Center for Women in Technology) Scholars Program which provides support to talented undergraduate students majoring in computer engineering, computer science, information systems, or a related program.

Then you have the Meyerhoff Scholars Program, which is an inclusive program targeted at high-achieving students who demonstrate an interest in furthering research in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).

Remember that some scholarships will require a separate application and essay. Always double-check the applicable deadlines and requirements to make sure you're eligible and completing the necessary steps for consideration.

Finally, don't forget to explore outside scholarships - there are many organizations, companies, and benefactors that offer scholarships not directly tied to any particular college, and these can supplement your financial aid package. Each scholarship has its unique application process and criteria, so do your research well in advance.

Wishing you all the best in your application process!