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The Educational Assistance ​(EA) Grant is a need-based grant that provides financial assistance to eligible applicants enrolled at postsecondary institutions. A student may receive an award for up to $3,000.

Who May Apply?

An individual who has demonstrated financial need and is eligible for in-state tuition and planning to enroll at a two-year or four-year Maryland college or university as a full-time (12 credits per semester) degree-seeking undergraduate applicant who is:

·       currently enrolled as a high school senior; or

·       enrolled as a degree-seeking undergraduate student.

 

How do I Apply?

Submit either the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) OR Maryland State Financial Aid Application (MSFAA) by March 1.

The MSFAA should only be completed by undocumented individuals who are ineligible to receive federal financial aid.

 

How is Financial Need Determined?

An EA Grant is determined by student need and is determined using the following formula:

OSFA College Cost of Attendance
-  EFC + or - Regional Cost of Living Adjustment
-  Certain state scholarship awards (if awarded)
-  Federal Pell Grant (if eligible)
= OSFA Adjusted Financial Need

 

Important Deadlines

March 1:         FINAL deadline to submit the FAFSA or MSFAA

May 1:            AWARDING performed (All awards are contingent upon the availability of funds)

 

Exceptions for Receiving Award at an Out-of-State Institution

The EA Grant may be used at an out-of-state institution only if the award recipient is a deaf or hearing impaired student and the institution makes special provisions for deaf and hearing impaired students that are not available at Maryland institutions.

 

Renewal Requirements

To remain eligible for the award, recipients must meet the following requirements:

·       Maintain satisfactory academic progress at the institution you are attending

·       Submit the FAFSA or MSFAA no later than March 1 each year 

·       Continue to demonstrate financial need

In addition, students who have received the award for at least two years must:

o   annually complete 30 credits in order to have their awards renewed for the full amount or;

o   annually complete 24-29 credits in order to have their awards renewed for a prorated amount.

 

For an overview on the Credit Completion Requirements click here.

Click here for more information on the renewal requirements.​