Education (GED) — Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Statutes in effect as of October 1, 2026.
Subtitle 1. General Provisions
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-101 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 1. General Provisions
§ 18–101LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this title the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)
“Commission” means the Maryland Higher Education Commission.
(c)
“Office” means the Office of Student Financial Assistance.
(d)
“Secretary” means the Secretary of Higher Education.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-102 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 1. General Provisions
§ 18–102LinkCopy Citation
Except as otherwise provided in this title, the provisions of this subtitle apply to any scholarship, grant, loan, or other student financial assistance awarded by the Office.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-103 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 1. General Provisions
§ 18–103LinkCopy Citation
Except as otherwise provided in Subtitles 3, 4, 5, and 12 of this title, a scholarship, grant, loan, or other student financial assistance awarded by the Office may be used only at a public or private nonprofit institution of higher education in this State that possesses a certificate of approval from the Commission.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-104 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 1. General Provisions
§ 18–104LinkCopy Citation
(a)
This title does not affect the power of any institution over:
(1)
Its operation or curriculum;
(2)
Its standards of scholarship for admission or attendance;
(3)
Examinations and grades;
(4)
Adoption and enforcement of rules and regulations; and
(5)
The disciplining of students.
(b)
The recipient of a scholarship may not be:
(1)
Denied admission to any institution because of religion; or
(2)
Required to take sectarian religious courses to qualify for a degree.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-105 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 1. General Provisions
§ 18–105LinkCopy Citation
If requested by the donor or sponsor, any public institution of higher education shall report the academic grades of the recipient of a scholarship to the donor or sponsor at the end of each semester.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-106 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 1. General Provisions
§ 18–106LinkCopy Citation
(a)
If, during an academic year, a student who is receiving any student financial assistance award withdraws from the institution at which the award is used or otherwise fails to remain eligible for the award, the institution shall make a pro rata refund to the Office or other donor on the same terms that it makes refunds to students.
(b)
Any refund may be reawarded on an interim basis under this title until the end of the academic year. Any requirement of an examination is waived for the recipient of an interim award.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-107 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 1. General Provisions
§ 18–107LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
Each year, money for each student financial assistance program administered by the Office shall be included in the State budget.
(2)
Each year, the Governor shall include in the State budget at least 80 percent of the funds appropriated in the prior fiscal year for need–based programs as provided in §§ 18–301, 18–706(f), 18–1401, 18–1501, and 18–2601 of this title.
(b)
Except as otherwise provided in this title, money appropriated under this title that is not used by the end of the fiscal year shall be deposited in the Need–based Student Financial Assistance Fund.
(c)
(1)
In this subsection, “Fund” means the Need–based Student Financial Assistance Fund.
(2)
There is a Need–based Student Financial Assistance Fund.
(3)
The purpose of the Fund is to allow money appropriated for student financial assistance programs that is not used in a fiscal year to be retained for need–based awards in future fiscal years.
(4)
The Commission shall administer the Fund.
(5)
(i)
The Fund is a special, nonlapsing fund that is not subject to § 7–302 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.
(ii)
The State Treasurer shall hold the Fund and the Comptroller shall account for the Fund.
(6)
The Fund consists of:
(i)
Money distributed to the Fund under subsection (b) of this section; and
(ii)
Any other money from any other source accepted for the benefit of the Fund.
(7)
(i)
The Fund may be used only for making need–based financial assistance awards to students as provided in §§ 18–301, 18–601, 18–604, 18–706(f), 18–1401, 18–14A–01, 18–1501, 18–2507, and 18–2601 of this title.
(ii)
The Fund may not be used for administrative expenses.
(8)
(i)
The State Treasurer shall invest the money of the Fund in the same manner as other State money may be invested.
(ii)
Any investment earnings on the funds in the account shall be paid into the General Fund of the State.
(9)
Expenditures from the Fund may be made only in accordance with the State budget.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-108 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 1. General Provisions
§ 18–108LinkCopy Citation
Any college student or other individual, who is under 18 years old and is eligible for or is receiving benefits from any State scholarship, loan, tuition grant, remission of fixed charges, fellowship, federal or State student loan program, or any other student financial assistance:
(1)
May execute notes, contracts, or agreements necessary to obtain these benefits in the same manner and with the same effect as though he were 18 years old; and
(2)
May not assert the disability of infancy as a defense in any action brought against him with respect to these benefits.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-110 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 1. General Provisions
§ 18–110LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Any student attending a public institution of higher education who is not a resident of this State and who is enrolled in an education course or program leading to an occupation as a licensed registered nurse or a licensed practical nurse shall pay only the tuition fees and other mandatory fees payable by a resident of this State if the student furnishes a promissory note to this State, with security satisfactory to the Commission, that, on completion of the education course or program, the student will work in this State for at least 4 years as a licensed registered nurse or a licensed practical nurse in a hospital or related institution, as defined in § 19–301 of the Health – General Article.
(b)
(1)
The Secretary of Health may determine if there is a shortage of licensed registered nurses or licensed practical nurses.
(2)
Subject to paragraphs (3) and (4) of this subsection, if the Secretary determines that there is no shortage of licensed registered nurses or licensed practical nurses, the nonresident student tuition reduction program established under this section may not be applied to any courses or programs required for that particular occupation.
(3)
Paragraph (2) of this subsection applies only to students who enroll in a course of study leading to that occupation subsequent to the determination made under paragraph (1) of this subsection.
(4)
Paragraph (2) of this subsection may not affect any student who is participating in the nonresident tuition reduction program prior to the determination under paragraph (1) of this subsection.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-111 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 1. General Provisions
§ 18–111LinkCopy Citation
As a condition of receiving student financial assistance awarded by the Office, each recipient shall sign a statement pledging to remain drug free. The Commission shall determine the contents of the drug free statement.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-112 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 1. General Provisions
§ 18–112LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Except as otherwise provided in this title, repayment obligations incurred by recipients of student financial assistance administered by the Office shall be calculated at an interest rate equal to and matching the interest rate established by the United States Department of Education for the Federal Stafford Loan on the first day of July of each year, with interest not accruing prior to notification to the Commission of a recipient’s graduation or termination from an institution of higher education.
(b)
A recipient shall commence repayment obligations upon graduation or termination from an institution of higher education.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-113 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 1. General Provisions
§ 18–113LinkCopy Citation
(a)
A student may receive one or more awards of student financial assistance administered by the Office if:
(1)
Eligibility requirements are met for each type of student financial assistance received; and
(2)
The total of all student financial assistance received does not exceed:
(i)
The student’s total cost of education as certified by the institution the student is attending; and
(ii)
The equivalent annual expenses of a full–time resident undergraduate at the 4–year public institution of higher education within the University System of Maryland, other than the University of Maryland Global Campus and University of Maryland, Baltimore Campus, with the highest annual expenses for a full–time resident undergraduate.
(b)
A student who receives multiple awards of student financial assistance that have a service obligation requirement:
(1)
Must fulfill the terms of each service obligation; and
(2)
May not fulfill the service obligations concurrently.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-114 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 1. General Provisions
§ 18–114LinkCopy Citation
The Commission and the Department shall work collaboratively to develop an application for use on digital devices that provides:
(1)
Information about State financial aid programs;
(2)
Calendar notifications for dates and deadlines associated with applying for financial aid; and
(3)
Any other information the Commission and the Department determine to be necessary or helpful to parents and students regarding financial aid in the State.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-115 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 1. General Provisions
§ 18–115LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
In this section, “education loan” means a direct loan administered by the U.S. Department of Education that is made to assist a student in obtaining a postsecondary education.
(2)
“Education loan” does not include a Parent Plus loan or a private student loan.
(b)
An institution of postsecondary education that receives education loan information from the U.S. Department of Education shall provide to each undergraduate student enrolled in the institution who applies for federal student aid in the applicable award year:
(1)
The information reported on the student’s Student Aid Report issued by the U.S. Department of Education from the most recent award year, including:
(i)
The total amount of outstanding loans; and
(ii)
The monthly payment amount for a 10–year period for every $1,000 owed by the borrower;
(2)
The lifetime loan limit for undergraduate student borrowers;
(3)
A statement that the actual repayment amount is dependent on the following factors:
(i)
The total amount a student borrows;
(ii)
The interest rate at the time the funds are borrowed and the amount of interest that accrues over the course of the loan;
(iii)
The length of the repayment term of the loan; and
(iv)
The decisions a student makes relating to:
(1)
Income–based repayment plans;
(2)
Deferments; and
(3)
Loan forgiveness;
(4)
A link to the National Student Loan Data System for Students website and an income–driven repayment plan website; and
(5)
The address of the financial aid office where the student may seek financial aid counseling.
(c)
An institution of postsecondary education shall provide the information required under subsection (b) of this section to students annually with the student’s financial aid award notice.
(d)
The information provided under this section may include the following statement:
“The information provided by the institution of postsecondary education was obtained from your Student Aid Report issued by the U.S. Department of Education for the most recent award year. It is based on assumptions made by the U.S. Department of Education as reported in your Student Aid Report and is not meant as a guarantee or promise. This information does not include Parent Plus loans or private student loans.”
(e)
If an institution of postsecondary education includes the statement under subsection (d) of this section with the information required under subsection (b) of this section, the institution of postsecondary education does not incur liability for any inaccurate representations made under this section if the representations were:
(1)
Made based on incorrect information provided by the U.S. Department of Education; and
(2)
Reasonably relied on in good faith by the institution of postsecondary education.
Subtitle 2. Office of Student Financial Assistance
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-201 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 2. Office of Student Financial Assistance
§ 18–201LinkCopy Citation
There is an Office of Student Financial Assistance within the Commission.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-202 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 2. Office of Student Financial Assistance
§ 18–202LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The head of the Office is the Executive Director, who shall be appointed by the Secretary.
(b)
Subject to the general policies of the Maryland Higher Education Commission and the general supervision of the Secretary, the Executive Director exercises the powers and performs the duties under this title.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-203 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 2. Office of Student Financial Assistance
§ 18–203LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Office may employ the additional staff necessary to carry out its functions as provided in the State budget.
(b)
Each employee of the Office is entitled to the compensation provided in the State budget.
(c)
In conducting their operations, the Commission and Office shall share resources and coordinate their activities in order to enhance the efficient utilization of resources in the performance of their functions.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-204 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 2. Office of Student Financial Assistance
§ 18–204LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In addition to any other powers granted and duties imposed by this title, the Office has the powers and duties set forth in this section.
(b)
Except as otherwise provided in this title, the Office shall:
(1)
Administer student financial assistance programs;
(2)
Issue and disseminate public information about student financial assistance;
(3)
Regulate the form and submission of applications for student financial assistance under this title; and
(4)
Conduct conferences and interviews with applicants to evaluate their eligibility.
(c)
(1)
The Office may adopt any rule or regulation necessary to carry out its powers and duties.
(2)
The rules and regulations adopted by the Office under paragraph (1) of this subsection may include provisions for:
(i)
The performance of a service obligation for a program that as a condition of award requires a recipient of student financial assistance to perform a service obligation;
(ii)
The repayment of student financial assistance funds received should a recipient fail to perform a service obligation; and
(iii)
Waiver and deferment of a service obligation or repayment in circumstances determined by the Commission.
(d)
The Office:
(1)
Shall administer any federal program of scholarships or grants to students or institutions except for the Christa McAuliffe Fellowship which shall be administered by the Maryland State Department of Education; and
(2)
May do anything necessary to comply with any federal law relating to these scholarships or grants.
(e)
The Office shall:
(1)
Arrange for the competitive examination required of applicants for certain scholarships; and
(2)
Send the results of the examination to the appropriate institutions and to the person who awards the scholarship.
(f)
The Office shall:
(1)
Analyze under uniform standards the financial need of each applicant for a scholarship for which financial need is a consideration; and
(2)
Send its analysis to the appropriate institution and the person who awards the scholarship.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-205 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 2. Office of Student Financial Assistance
§ 18–205LinkCopy Citation
Subject to rules and regulations adopted by the Commission, the Office shall grant a deferment from the service obligation component of student financial assistance awarded under this title to:
(1)
An active service member who has been assigned duty outside of the State; or
(2)
The spouse of an active service member who has been assigned duty outside of the State.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-206 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 2. Office of Student Financial Assistance
§ 18–206LinkCopy Citation
For each award of a scholarship under this title, the Office shall inform the recipient of the scholarship of the availability of the income tax credit under § 10–740(c)(4) of the Tax – General Article for State employees.
Subtitle 3. Delegate Howard P. Rawlings Educational Excellence Awards Program
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-301 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 3. Delegate Howard P. Rawlings Educational Excellence Awards Program
§ 18–301LinkCopy Citation
(a)
There is a Delegate Howard P. Rawlings Program of Educational Excellence Awards in this State that are awarded under this subtitle.
(b)
The Program shall consist of the following types of awards:
(1)
Guaranteed Access Grants that are awarded to the neediest students to ensure that 100 percent of educational costs, as defined by regulations adopted by the Commission, are paid; and
(2)
Educational Assistance Grants that are awarded to low and moderate income students to assist in paying educational costs, as defined by regulations adopted by the Commission.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-302 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 3. Delegate Howard P. Rawlings Educational Excellence Awards Program
§ 18–302LinkCopy Citation
The Office of Student Financial Assistance shall publicize the availability of Delegate Howard P. Rawlings Educational Excellence Awards.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-303 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 3. Delegate Howard P. Rawlings Educational Excellence Awards Program
§ 18–303LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Subject to subsection (e) of this section, each recipient of a Delegate Howard P. Rawlings Educational Excellence Award shall:
(1)
Be accepted for admission in the regular undergraduate program at an eligible institution or be enrolled in a 2–year associate degree program in which the course work is acceptable for transfer credit for an accredited baccalaureate program in an eligible institution;
(2)
Except as provided in § 18–303.2 of this subtitle, be a resident of this State;
(3)
Demonstrate a definite financial need to:
(i)
For an Educational Assistance Grant, the Office; or
(ii)
For a Guaranteed Access Grant, the Office or an institution of higher education that complies with § 18–303.3 of this subtitle; and
(4)
Accept any other conditions attached to the award.
(b)
Except as provided in subsection (c) of this section, each recipient of a Guaranteed Access Grant shall:
(1)
Have completed high school or, failing to do so, on the recommendation of the recipient’s high school principal, provide evidence satisfactory to the Office of extenuating circumstances;
(2)
Begin college within 6 years of completing high school or, failing to do so, provide evidence satisfactory to the Office of extenuating circumstances;
(3)
Be under the age of 26 years at the time of receiving the first award;
(4)
Enroll in college as a full–time student;
(5)
Subject to subsection (d) of this section, have an annual family income below a poverty index determined by the Commission; and
(6)
Satisfy any additional criteria the Commission may establish.
(c)
(1)
Subject to paragraph (2) of this subsection, an individual who has successfully obtained a high school diploma by examination under § 11–808 of the Labor and Employment Article is exempt from the requirements of subsection (b) of this section.
(2)
An individual described under paragraph (1) of this subsection is eligible for a Guaranteed Access Grant if the individual:
(i)
Has scored a passing score of at least 145 per module on the diploma by examination;
(ii)
Begins college within 6 years of achieving the score described under item (i) of this paragraph or, failing to do so, provides evidence satisfactory to the Office of extenuating circumstances;
(iii)
Is under the age of 26 years at the time of receiving the first award;
(iv)
Enrolls in college as a full–time student; and
(v)
Subject to subsection (d) of this section, has an annual family income below a poverty index determined by the Commission.
(d)
(1)
To determine the annual family income eligibility of an applicant for a Guaranteed Access Grant, the Office or an institution of higher education that complies with § 18–303.3 of this subtitle may not consider an amount received by the applicant as an earned income credit under § 32 of the Internal Revenue Code.
(2)
When awarding a Guaranteed Access Grant to a student who prequalified for the award under subsection (e)(1) or (2) of this section, the Commission shall use the annual family income determination used when the student prequalified.
(e)
(1)
Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, a student in grade 7 or grade 8 who applies and qualifies for a Guaranteed Access Grant on the basis of financial need as established by the Commission shall prequalify for a Guaranteed Access Grant to be used at the time of enrollment in an institution of higher education by agreeing in writing, as a secondary and undergraduate student, to:
(i)
Satisfy the attendance policy of the applicable school;
(ii)
Provide information required by the Commission or the State Board of Education;
(iii)
Apply for admission to an institution of higher education during the student’s senior year of high school;
(iv)
Complete and file on a timely basis applications for federal student aid for each year that the student plans to enroll in postsecondary education;
(v)
Participate in the Next Generation Scholars of Maryland Program established in § 18–303.1 of this subtitle until the student graduates from high school and matriculates at an institution of higher education;
(vi)
Maintain a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.5 on a 4.0 scale or its equivalent; and
(vii)
Satisfy any other program requirements set by the Office, the Commission, the State Board of Education, or the State Department of Education.
(2)
A student in grade 9 or grade 10 shall prequalify for a Guaranteed Access Grant to be used at the time of enrollment in an institution of higher education if the student:
(i)
Otherwise meets the conditions of paragraph (1) of this subsection; and
(ii)
(1)
Is eligible for free or reduced priced meals; or
(2)
Attends a school that participates in the U.S. Department of Agriculture Community Eligibility Provision and the student is identified by:
(A)
Direct certification; or
(B)
Income information provided by the family of the student to the local school system on an alternative form developed by the Department.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-303.1 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 3. Delegate Howard P. Rawlings Educational Excellence Awards Program
§ 18–303.1LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
(2)
“Fund” means the Next Generation Scholars of Maryland Program Fund.
(3)
“Program” means the Next Generation Scholars of Maryland Program.
(b)
The Commission, in collaboration with the Department, county boards of education, county superintendents, and institutions of higher education, shall administer the Next Generation Scholars of Maryland Program.
(c)
The Program shall provide guidance and services to students who qualify for a Guaranteed Access Grant in accordance with § 18–303(e) of this subtitle and students who qualify to receive free or reduced–price lunch under the National School Lunch Program to assist the students in successfully:
(1)
Completing a college preparatory curriculum;
(2)
Graduating from high school;
(3)
Matriculating at an institution of higher education as defined in § 18–303 of this subtitle; and
(4)
Making timely progress to complete a degree program.
(d)
(1)
The Commission shall:
(i)
In collaboration with the Department, publicize the Program through community outreach and marketing materials, including posting lists of the nonprofit organizations selected to provide services and the local school systems and cities in which the Program is located;
(ii)
Award grants to nonprofit organizations to administer the Program;
(iii)
Solicit applications from nonprofit organizations to administer the Program in local school systems; and
(iv)
Give priority to applications:
(1)
From Maryland–based nonprofit organizations; and
(2)
That include business and institution of higher education partners.
(2)
The Department shall assist the Commission with the review of applications and the selection of nonprofit organizations to administer the Program in local school systems.
(3)
The Program may continue to provide services to students:
(i)
When they attend an institution of higher education; or
(ii)
Who have participated in the Program for at least 1 full year and relocate to another county in the State that does not participate in the Program.
(e)
In accordance with subsection (c) of this section, the services to be provided to students participating in the Program shall include:
(1)
A high school graduation plan;
(2)
Summer work or internship opportunities;
(3)
Financial aid literacy assistance, including informing students of available sources of financial aid and how to leverage federal, State, and institutional aid at specified institutions to make higher education affordable;
(4)
Career interest assessments;
(5)
Mentorship and one–on–one counseling;
(6)
Visits to college campuses and workplaces;
(7)
An intensive summer bridge or matriculation assistance program for students entering an institution of higher education directly from high school; and
(8)
A plan to matriculate and graduate from an institution of higher education.
(f)
A nonprofit organization that receives a grant to provide the guidance and services required under subsection (e) of this section may utilize:
(1)
Postsecondary students receiving work–study assistance at Maryland institutions of higher education; and
(2)
Secondary students in 11th and 12th grades who are successfully completing high school graduation requirements.
(g)
(1)
For fiscal year 2023 and each fiscal year thereafter, the Governor shall include in the annual budget bill an appropriation of $5,000,000 to the Program.
(2)
The Commission shall distribute grants to nonprofit organizations that:
(i)
Are selected in accordance with subsection (d) of this section; and
(ii)
Will administer the Program in local school systems in which at least 50% of the students as a percentage of full–time equivalent students as defined in § 5–201 of this article are eligible to receive a free lunch under the National School Lunch Program in the 2015–2016 school year, as identified by the Department.
(h)
(1)
There is a Next Generation Scholars of Maryland Program Fund.
(2)
The purpose of the Fund is to provide funds for the administration of the Program.
(3)
The Commission shall administer the Fund.
(4)
The Fund is a special, nonlapsing fund that is not subject to § 7–302 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.
(5)
The State Treasurer shall hold the Fund separately, and the Comptroller shall account for the Fund.
(6)
The Fund consists of:
(i)
Money appropriated in the State budget for the Program;
(ii)
Interest earnings of the Fund; and
(iii)
Any other money from any other source accepted for the benefit of the Fund.
(7)
The Fund may be used only for administering the Program.
(8)
(i)
The State Treasurer shall invest the money of the Fund in the same manner as other State money may be invested.
(ii)
Any interest earnings of the Fund shall be credited to the Fund.
(9)
Expenditures from the Fund may be made only in accordance with the State budget.
(i)
The Commission may adopt regulations necessary to implement this section.
(j)
On or before December 1, 2020, and each December 1 thereafter, the Commission and the Department shall report to the Governor and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of the State Government Article, the General Assembly, on the implementation of the Program, including:
(1)
The number of students from each local school system who were prequalified for the Guaranteed Access Grant during each year of the Program;
(2)
The race, disability status, and English language learner status of each participating student who prequalified for the Guaranteed Access Grant each year of the Program;
(3)
The progress of each participating student through the Program, including high school graduation, institution of higher education matriculation and retention rates, and, if applicable, institution of higher education graduation rates;
(4)
The potential for allocating additional funds for longitudinal data collection of the number of students matriculating to institutions of higher education each year, the number of students receiving retention services each year, and postsecondary outcomes for those two categories of students;
(5)
The amount and quality of services provided by nonprofit organizations to participating students, including the use of college work–study students and high school students as mentors and counselors;
(6)
The nonprofit organizations that received grants under the Program, including any other entities that provided services such as institutions of higher education, the business community, and local schools or local school systems;
(7)
The amount of financial aid, in addition to the Guaranteed Access Grant, that participating students received each year that the students were enrolled in an institution of higher education; and
(8)
Findings and recommendations on the success of the Program and whether funding for the Program should be continued or expanded.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-303.2 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 3. Delegate Howard P. Rawlings Educational Excellence Awards Program
§ 18–303.2LinkCopy Citation
Notwithstanding § 18–303(a)(2) of this subtitle, an individual is eligible for an award under this subtitle if the individual is eligible for in–State tuition under this article.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-303.3 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 3. Delegate Howard P. Rawlings Educational Excellence Awards Program
§ 18–303.3LinkCopy Citation
(a)
A public institution of higher education in the State, or a private nonprofit institution of higher education that is eligible for State aid under § 17–103 of this article, may verify the eligibility of an applicant for, and on verification of the eligibility administer, a Guaranteed Access Grant in accordance with this section.
(b)
An institution may verify:
(1)
The eligibility of an applicant who:
(i)
Is identified by the Office as potentially eligible for a Guaranteed Access Grant under § 18–303 of this subtitle; and
(ii)
Applies for admission to the institution; or
(2)
The renewal eligibility of a student who:
(i)
Received a Guaranteed Access Grant under § 18–303 of this subtitle in the prior award year; and
(ii)
Is an admitted student at the institution in the current award year.
(c)
An institution shall:
(1)
Verify that an applicant qualifies for a Guaranteed Access Grant under the requirements of § 18–303 of this subtitle;
(2)
Evaluate the applicant’s income eligibility criteria using federal standards for verification and in accordance with the income eligibility criteria established by the Office;
(3)
Maintain records used by the institution to determine the eligibility of applicants for a period of 5 years after the end date of the award year associated with the student’s last award; and
(4)
Provide the Commission with an audit, in accordance with rules adopted by the Commission, to show that awards verified and administered under this section have been made properly.
(d)
(1)
Subject to paragraph (2) of this subsection, a verification obtained by an applicant under subsection (b) of this section may be used at any eligible institution described under § 18–305 of this subtitle.
(2)
The amount of the Guaranteed Access Grant awarded to an applicant may be adjusted in accordance with the cost of attendance at the institution at which the applicant uses the award.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-303.4 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 3. Delegate Howard P. Rawlings Educational Excellence Awards Program
§ 18–303.4LinkCopy Citation
(a)
This section applies beginning with the 2029–2030 financial aid award year.
(b)
(1)
Beginning when financial aid information is available each year, but not later than October 1 each year, the Office shall compile and certify lists for the entire State that rank applicants for the Guaranteed Access Grant award by financial need.
(2)
Regularly, the Office shall provide to each institution of higher education in the State the lists compiled and certified in accordance with paragraph (1) of this subsection.
(c)
(1)
Each institution of higher education shall use the lists provided by the Office in accordance with subsection (b) of this section, and the requirements under §§ 18–303 and 18–304 of this subtitle, to determine the applicants who shall be offered a Guaranteed Access Grant award by the institution and the amount of the award.
(2)
The institution shall send the financial aid award notification to an applicant to offer the applicant a Guaranteed Access Grant award.
(d)
An applicant may accept the offer of a Guaranteed Access Grant award from an institution of higher education.
(e)
(1)
Each semester, each institution of higher education shall submit to the Office a list of the students who were awarded a Guaranteed Access Grant for the semester and the amounts awarded.
(2)
The Office shall reimburse each institution for the Guaranteed Access Grant awards on the list submitted in accordance with paragraph (1) of this subsection.
(f)
(1)
(i)
The Office shall compile and certify lists of students who previously received a Guaranteed Access Grant award and are eligible for a renewal award.
(ii)
The Office shall provide to each institution of higher education in the State the lists compiled and certified in accordance with subparagraph (i) of this paragraph.
(2)
(i)
Each institution of higher education shall use the lists provided by the Office in accordance with paragraph (1) of this subsection, and the requirements under §§ 18–303 and 18–304 of this subtitle, to determine the students who shall be offered a Guaranteed Access Grant renewal award by the institution.
(ii)
The institution shall send the financial aid award notification to a student to offer the student a Guaranteed Access Grant renewal award.
(3)
The Office shall reimburse each institution of higher education for the Guaranteed Access Grant renewal awards made in accordance with paragraph (1) of this subsection.
(g)
The Office shall adopt regulations to implement this section.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-304 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 3. Delegate Howard P. Rawlings Educational Excellence Awards Program
§ 18–304LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this section, “academic year” means:
(1)
The fall, spring, and summer semesters; and
(2)
Any semester shorter in length than the term of a regular semester.
(b)
(1)
An institution of higher education shall determine the amount of each Guaranteed Access Award based on the financial need of the applicant.
(2)
In determining the amount of financial need, the institution of higher education shall consider regional cost–of–living differences.
(3)
In determining the percent of financial need used to calculate an award for a community college student receiving a Guaranteed Access Award, the institution of higher education shall use not less than 60%.
(c)
(1)
Except as provided in paragraphs (2) and (3) of this subsection, a Delegate Howard P. Rawlings Educational Excellence Award may be awarded in $100 increments.
(2)
(i)
The amount of an Educational Assistance Grant made to a student in the student’s first 2 academic years of enrollment may not be less than $400 or more than $3,000.
(ii)
Beginning in the third academic year of enrollment and for each academic year thereafter:
(1)
If the student successfully completed at least 30 credits in the prior academic year, the amount of an Educational Assistance Grant made to a student may not be less than $400 or more than $3,000; or
(2)
If the student successfully completed at least 24 but less than 30 credits in the prior academic year, the award amount shall be equal to the amount the student would have otherwise received multiplied by the ratio of the number of credits successfully completed divided by 30.
(3)
(i)
All applicants who fulfill the requirements established in § 18–303(a) and (b) of this subtitle shall receive a Guaranteed Access Grant.
(ii)
Except as provided in subparagraph (iv) of this paragraph, the amount of a Guaranteed Access Grant made to a student in the student’s first 2 academic years of enrollment shall be equal to 100 percent of the student’s financial need as determined by the institution of higher education, not to exceed the equivalent annual expenses of a full–time resident undergraduate at the 4–year public institution of higher education within the University System of Maryland, other than the University of Maryland Global Campus and University of Maryland, Baltimore Campus, with the highest annual expenses for a full–time resident undergraduate.
(iii)
Except as provided in subparagraph (iv) of this paragraph, beginning in the third academic year of enrollment and for each academic year thereafter:
(1)
If the student successfully completed at least 30 credits in the prior academic year, the award amount shall be equal to 100 percent of the student’s financial need as determined by the institution of higher education, not to exceed the equivalent annual expenses of a full–time resident undergraduate at the 4–year public institution of higher education within the University System of Maryland, other than the University of Maryland Global Campus and University of Maryland, Baltimore Campus, with the highest annual expenses for a full–time resident undergraduate; or
(2)
If the student successfully completed at least 24 but less than 30 credits in the prior academic year, the award amount shall be equal to 100 percent multiplied by the ratio of the number of credits successfully completed divided by 30.
(iv)
If a recipient of a Guaranteed Access Grant becomes ineligible because of a change in family income, the recipient shall remain eligible for the full award for the full award term applicable to the recipient under this subtitle if the recipient remains eligible to receive a federal Pell Grant.
(d)
Each institution of higher education shall include in the financial aid award notification to a student the availability of the Educational Assistance Award administered by the Office, including:
(1)
A description of the Office and the Educational Assistance Award;
(2)
Information on Educational Assistance Award timelines; and
(3)
A point of contact at the Office for students.
(e)
Beginning in fiscal year 2024 and each fiscal year thereafter, the Governor shall include in the annual budget bill an appropriation of at least $112,000,000 for Delegate Howard P. Rawlings Educational Excellence Awards made under this subtitle.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-305 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 3. Delegate Howard P. Rawlings Educational Excellence Awards Program
§ 18–305LinkCopy Citation
(a)
A Delegate Howard P. Rawlings Educational Excellence Award may be used:
(1)
At a degree granting institution of higher education, an eligible institution with an associate degree program that provides transfer credit for an accredited baccalaureate program, or a hospital diploma school for training registered nurses if the curriculum is approved by the Commission; and
(2)
For educational expenses as defined by the Commission, including:
(i)
Tuition and fees; and
(ii)
Room and board.
(b)
Except as provided in subsection (d) of this section, a Delegate Howard P. Rawlings Educational Excellence Award may be used at a school in another state if:
(1)
There is a reciprocal agreement as provided in § 18–308 of this subtitle; and
(2)
The school meets requirements of subsection (a)(1) of this section.
(c)
Except as provided in subsection (d) of this section, a Delegate Howard P. Rawlings Educational Excellence Award may be used at a degree granting institution of higher education that is not in the State if:
(1)
The applicant is a deaf or hearing impaired student attending an institution of higher education that makes special provisions for deaf and hearing impaired students; and
(2)
Comparable special provisions are not available to the student at an institution of higher education in the State.
(d)
The Office may not award more than 10% of the funds available for each of the types of grants awarded under this subtitle for use by students attending schools in another state and the District of Columbia.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-306 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 3. Delegate Howard P. Rawlings Educational Excellence Awards Program
§ 18–306LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Subject to the provisions of subsection (c) of this section, each recipient of a Delegate Howard P. Rawlings Educational Excellence Award may hold the award for 4 years if the recipient:
(1)
Continues to be a resident of this State;
(2)
Continues to be a full–time student at an eligible institution and takes at least 12 semester hours of courses each semester, or its equivalent as determined by the Office;
(3)
In the judgment of the institution, is making satisfactory progress toward a degree; and
(4)
Maintains the standards of the institution.
(b)
Each recipient of a Delegate Howard P. Rawlings Educational Excellence Award who is enrolled in an associate degree program as permitted in § 18–303(a)(1) of this subtitle may hold the award for 2 years if the same conditions of subsection (a) of this section are met.
(c)
Each recipient of a Delegate Howard P. Rawlings Educational Excellence Award may hold the award for a 5th year if the recipient continues to satisfy the requirements under subsection (a) of this section and:
(1)
Is enrolled in an academic program that, as determined by the institution, requires 5 years to complete; or
(2)
Provides evidence, satisfactory to the Office, of extenuating financial, academic, or other circumstances that prevent the recipient from completing the academic program in 4 years.
(d)
Each recipient of a Delegate Howard P. Rawlings Educational Excellence Award who is enrolled in an associate degree program as permitted in § 18–303(a)(1) of this subtitle may hold the award for a 3rd year if the recipient:
(1)
Continues to satisfy the requirements under subsection (a) of this section; and
(2)
Provides evidence, satisfactory to the Office, of extenuating financial, academic, or other circumstances that prevent the recipient from completing the academic program in 2 years.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-307 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 3. Delegate Howard P. Rawlings Educational Excellence Awards Program
§ 18–307LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
Except as provided in subsection (c) of this section, the Office shall compile and certify lists for the entire State that rank applicants by financial need for the Educational Assistance Award.
(2)
The Office shall award eligible students the Educational Assistance Award based on financial need from any remaining funding for the Delegate Howard P. Rawlings Educational Excellence Awards.
(b)
All funds for annual initial grants for the Educational Assistance Award shall be awarded from the statewide list on the basis of greatest financial need.
(c)
(1)
(i)
If State funds are available for this purpose, institutions of higher education in the State may provide Delegate Howard P. Rawlings Educational Excellence Awards to students who otherwise meet the requirements for receiving a Delegate Howard P. Rawlings Educational Excellence Award but who apply after the March 1 deadline or have other extenuating circumstances.
(ii)
Each year the Commission shall transfer at least $2 million of the funds available under § 18–107(b) of this title for the purposes of this subsection.
(2)
The Commission shall:
(i)
Establish guidelines for the awarding of Delegate Howard P. Rawlings Educational Excellence Awards by the institutions of higher education to the students; and
(ii)
Adopt regulations necessary for the implementation of this subsection.
(3)
(i)
The Commission shall allocate available funds to institutions of higher education based on the proportion of State residents enrolled at each institution who receive federal Pell Grants.
(ii)
An institution of higher education that receives funds under this paragraph shall provide the Commission with an annual audit describing the disposition of the funds.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-308 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 3. Delegate Howard P. Rawlings Educational Excellence Awards Program
§ 18–308LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this section, “school” means an institution that meets the requirements of § 18–305(a)(1) of this subtitle.
(b)
The Office may enter into reciprocal scholarship agreements with other states. However, the Office shall give priority to entering into reciprocal agreements with contiguous and nearby states.
(c)
If scholarships are awarded to students for use in schools in other states, the total value of all of these awards may not be more than 10 percent of the total funds budgeted for the Delegate Howard P. Rawlings Educational Excellence Award Program.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-309 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 3. Delegate Howard P. Rawlings Educational Excellence Awards Program
§ 18–309LinkCopy Citation
(a)
For any fiscal year, if the funds appropriated for the Delegate Howard P. Rawlings Educational Excellence Award Program are insufficient to satisfy fully all awards as calculated under § 18–304 of this subtitle, the amount paid to each recipient of a Delegate Howard P. Rawlings Educational Excellence Award shall be a percentage of that award, as determined in accordance with regulations adopted by the Commission that establish a schedule of reductions for this purpose.
(b)
(1)
Delegate Howard P. Rawlings Educational Excellence Award grants calculated under § 18–304 of this subtitle that are not used by the recipients shall be retained by the Commission for use in the Delegate Howard P. Rawlings Educational Excellence Award Program for the next fiscal year.
(2)
All funds retained in the Delegate Howard P. Rawlings Educational Excellence Award Program as provided in paragraph (1) of this subsection shall be used to award scholarships to students during subsequent fiscal years as provided by this title and may not be used for administrative expenses.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-310 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 3. Delegate Howard P. Rawlings Educational Excellence Awards Program
§ 18–310LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Funds for the Delegate Howard P. Rawlings Educational Excellence Award Program shall be as provided in the annual budget of the Commission by the Governor.
(b)
(1)
In this section, “Fund” means the Educational Excellence Fund.
(2)
There is an Educational Excellence Fund in the Commission.
(3)
The Commission shall administer the Fund.
(4)
The Fund is a special, nonlapsing fund that is not subject to § 7–302 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.
(5)
The State Treasurer shall hold the Fund separately and the Comptroller shall account for the Fund.
(6)
The Commission:
(i)
May accept any gift or grant from any person or corporation for the Fund;
(ii)
Shall use any gift or grant that it receives to support an early intervention program to identify students eligible for the Delegate Howard P. Rawlings Educational Excellence Award Program and prepare them for college; and
(iii)
Shall deposit any gift or grant that it receives for the Fund with the State Treasurer for use only in the early intervention program.
(7)
(i)
At the end of the fiscal year, the Commission shall prepare an annual report on the Fund that includes an accounting of all financial receipts and expenditures to and from the Fund.
(ii)
The Commission shall submit a copy of the report to the General Assembly as provided under § 2–1257 of the State Government Article.
Subtitle 4. Senatorial Scholarships
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-401 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 4. Senatorial Scholarships
§ 18–401LinkCopy Citation
There is a program of senatorial scholarships in this State that are awarded under this subtitle.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-402 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 4. Senatorial Scholarships
§ 18–402LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
Except as provided in paragraphs (2) and (3) of this subsection, each applicant for a senatorial scholarship shall:
(i)
Take a competitive examination administered by the Office; and
(ii)
(1)
Be accepted for admission in the regular undergraduate, graduate, or professional program at an eligible institution; or
(2)
Be enrolled in a 2–year terminal certificate program in which the course work is acceptable for transfer credit for an accredited baccalaureate program in an eligible institution.
(2)
An applicant is exempt from the examination if the applicant:
(i)
Is attending an eligible institution and has completed at least 1 year in good academic standing at the institution;
(ii)
Graduated from high school at least 5 years before application for a senatorial scholarship;
(iii)
Is accepted for admission to a private career institution, if the institution’s curriculum is approved by the Commission, and the institution is accredited by a national accrediting association approved by the United States Department of Education; or
(iv)
Is planning to attend or is attending a Maryland community college.
(3)
An applicant is exempt from the requirements of paragraph (1) of this subsection if the applicant is or was enrolled in a certificate or license program, course, or sequence of courses at a community college that leads to certification or licensure.
(b)
Each applicant shall:
(1)
Be eligible for in–State tuition under this article; and
(2)
At the time of the applicant’s initial application, be domiciled in the legislative district from which the applicant seeks an award.
(c)
(1)
Each applicant shall demonstrate to the Office a definite financial need, and each Senator shall consider the financial need of each applicant.
(2)
Each Senator is the final judge of the financial need of each applicant to whom the Senator awards a scholarship, and the Office may not negate the Senator’s judgment or impose requirements of time or procedure.
(d)
Each applicant shall accept any other conditions attached to the award.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-403 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 4. Senatorial Scholarships
§ 18–403LinkCopy Citation
If a Senator serves from a legislative district composed of more than one county, the number of scholarship units shall be divided as equally as possible among qualified applicants from each county in the legislative district.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-404 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 4. Senatorial Scholarships
§ 18–404LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
Until June 30, 2019, each Senator may award $34,500 of senatorial scholarships each year.
(2)
Beginning July 1, 2019, each Senator may award senatorial scholarships each fiscal year in an amount that may not exceed the total of:
(i)
The amount authorized to be awarded the previous year; and
(ii)
The amount of the increase over the previous year in the tuition and mandatory fees of an undergraduate program at the 4–year public institution of higher education within the University System of Maryland, other than the University of Maryland Global Campus and University of Maryland, Baltimore Campus, with the highest annual expenses for a full–time resident undergraduate.
(b)
(1)
The annual allocation under subsection (a) of this section applies to initial–year awards. After 4 years of operation, the annual allocation to each Senator for initial–year and continuing awards may not exceed four times the amount of the Senator’s allocation under subsection (a) of this section.
(2)
If a recipient moves to the legislative district of another Senator, the allocation to the recipient shall continue to be drawn on the account of the Senator who originally awarded the scholarship.
(c)
(1)
A senatorial scholarship may be awarded in $100 increments.
(2)
An award for a single year may not be less than $400 or more than the equivalent annual tuition and mandatory fees of an undergraduate program at the 4–year public institution of higher education within the University System of Maryland, other than the University of Maryland Global Campus and University of Maryland, Baltimore Campus, with the highest annual expenses for a full–time resident undergraduate.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-405 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 4. Senatorial Scholarships
§ 18–405LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Except as provided in subsection (d) of this section, a senatorial scholarship may be used only at any community college or undergraduate, graduate, or professional school in the State.
(b)
A senatorial scholarship may be used:
(1)
If the curriculum is approved by the Commission, at a degree granting institution of higher education, a hospital diploma school for training registered nurses, or to attend a private postsecondary proprietary institution that is accredited by a national accrediting association approved by the United States Department of Education as a full–time student; and
(2)
For educational expenses as defined by the Office, including:
(i)
Tuition and mandatory fees; and
(ii)
Room and board.
(c)
If on–campus housing is available, a senatorial scholarship may not be used to pay for off–campus housing.
(d)
Each Senator may award not more than 10% of the funds available under this subtitle to applicants planning to attend accredited undergraduate, graduate, or professional institutions outside the State, provided the applicant:
(1)
Will be studying in an academic area that is not offered in a program that is accredited by a national accrediting association approved by the United States Department of Education in any institution in the State;
(2)
Is a hearing impaired person who will be studying at an institution outside the State that makes special provisions for hearing impaired students, and comparable special provisions are not available to the applicant at an institution in the State; or
(3)
Is an active service member or the spouse of an active service member who is domiciled in this State.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-406 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 4. Senatorial Scholarships
§ 18–406LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Except as otherwise provided in this section, each recipient of a senatorial scholarship may hold the scholarship for 4 undergraduate academic years, subject to § 18–406.1 of this subtitle, and 4 graduate academic years if the recipient:
(1)
Is a full–time student;
(2)
Continues to be eligible for in–State tuition under this article; and
(3)
Continues to be a student at the institution and takes at least 12 semester hours of courses as an undergraduate or 9 semester hours of courses as a graduate student each semester leading to a degree.
(b)
A recipient of an undergraduate or graduate senatorial scholarship may hold the scholarship, appropriately prorated, for 8 academic years if the recipient:
(1)
Is a part–time student;
(2)
Continues to be eligible for in–State tuition under this article; and
(3)
Continues to be a student at the institution and takes at least 6 semester hours of courses each semester leading to a degree.
(c)
Any recipient of a senatorial scholarship may use up to one–half of the yearly award for summer school.
(d)
A recipient of a senatorial scholarship who is enrolled in a terminal certificate program as provided in § 18–402(a)(1) of this subtitle may hold the scholarship for 2 years if the recipient is a full–time student and otherwise meets the conditions of subsection (a) of this section, or may hold the scholarship for 4 years if the recipient is a part–time student and otherwise meets the conditions of subsection (b) of this section.
(e)
A recipient of a senatorial scholarship who is currently enrolled, or was enrolled within the last 2 years, in a certificate or license program, course, or sequence of courses at a community college that leads to certification or licensure, as provided in § 18–402(a)(3) of this subtitle, may use the scholarship to reimburse educational expenses as defined by the Office under § 18–405(b)(2) of this subtitle.
(f)
Each recipient of a senatorial scholarship who is enrolled in a private postsecondary proprietary institution that is accredited by a national accrediting association approved by the United States Department of Education:
(1)
May hold the scholarship for the completion of one program if the student otherwise meets the conditions of subsection (a)(1) and (2) of this section; and
(2)
Shall complete the program within the length of time prescribed by the institution for the completion of the program.
(g)
A recipient of a senatorial scholarship who is an active service member or the spouse of an active service member and otherwise meets the conditions of subsection (a) or (b) of this section may be domiciled in this State rather than eligible for in–State tuition under this article.
(h)
On request from an applicant of the scholarship with a documented disability, the Maryland Higher Education Commission may waive the requirement in subsection (b)(3) of this section.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-406.1 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 4. Senatorial Scholarships
§ 18–406.1LinkCopy Citation
A recipient may hold a scholarship for a fifth undergraduate academic year or for a semester subsequent to the end of a fourth undergraduate academic year if the recipient:
(1)
Requests a scholarship from the Senator for a fifth undergraduate academic year or for a semester subsequent to the end of a fourth undergraduate academic year;
(2)
Is a full–time student;
(3)
Continues to be eligible for in–State tuition under this article;
(4)
Continues to be a student at the institution and takes courses leading to a degree; and
(5)
Has exhausted the funds available under § 18–406(a) of this subtitle.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-407 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 4. Senatorial Scholarships
§ 18–407LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Each Senator shall award all of the Senator’s senatorial scholarships on or before September 1 of each year.
(b)
If any Senator fails to award all of the Senator’s scholarships on or before September 1 of each year, the Commission shall make the remaining awards to applicants from the Senator’s legislative district who:
(1)
Scored highest on the competitive examination; or
(2)
Are attending an eligible institution and have completed at least 1 year in good academic standing.
(c)
The Office shall:
(1)
Notify each Senator of the applicants to whom it awards the Senator’s scholarships; and
(2)
Announce publicly the names of all recipients.
(d)
To the extent a scholarship awarded under § 18–404 of this subtitle is not used by a student, money appropriated to the Commission for that award not used by the end of the fiscal year shall be retained by the Commission for use by the awarding Senator in the Senatorial Scholarship Program during subsequent fiscal years.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-408 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 4. Senatorial Scholarships
§ 18–408LinkCopy Citation
(a)
If there is no qualified applicant in a legislative district, a qualified applicant who resides in another legislative district may be appointed to receive the senatorial scholarship.
(b)
(1)
Subject to paragraph (2) of this subsection, a senatorial scholarship awarded under this section is for 1 year.
(2)
A student who receives an appointment under this section is eligible to receive a subsequent appointment for not longer than 4 years.
Subtitle 5. Delegate Scholarships
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-501 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 5. Delegate Scholarships
§ 18–501LinkCopy Citation
(a)
There is a program of Delegate Scholarships in this State that are awarded under this subtitle.
(b)
A scholarship awarded under this subtitle may be used at:
(1)
An eligible institution for a program of undergraduate, graduate, or professional studies;
(2)
An accredited undergraduate, graduate, or professional institution outside the State, if the applicant:
(i)
Will be studying in an academic area that is not offered in a program that is accredited by a national accrediting association approved by the United States Department of Education in any institution in this State;
(ii)
Is disabled and will be studying at an institution outside the State that makes special provisions for disabled students that are not available to the applicant at an institution in the State; or
(iii)
Is an active service member or the spouse of an active service member who is domiciled in this State; and
(3)
A private career school within the State that is approved by the Maryland Higher Education Commission under § 11–202 of this article and that is accredited by a national accrediting association that is approved by the United States Department of Education.
(c)
Money appropriated to the Commission for scholarships awarded under this section that is not used by the end of the fiscal year shall be retained by the Commission for use by the awarding Delegate in the Delegate Scholarship Program during subsequent fiscal years.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-502 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 5. Delegate Scholarships
§ 18–502LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Each member of the House of Delegates may select the recipients of the scholarships on any basis that the Delegate considers appropriate.
(b)
A member of the House of Delegates may select any individual who is eligible for in–State tuition under this article as a recipient of the scholarship.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-503 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 5. Delegate Scholarships
§ 18–503LinkCopy Citation
(a)
During each term in office, each Delegate may award the equivalent of four 4–year full–time scholarships, which may be awarded for either 1–, 2–, 3–, or 4–year periods.
(b)
(1)
Each scholarship pays the tuition and mandatory fees at any eligible institution.
(2)
The annual amount of a scholarship at a public or private institution or any graduate or professional program may not exceed the equivalent annual tuition and mandatory fees of an undergraduate program at the 4–year public institution of higher education within the University System of Maryland, other than the University of Maryland Global Campus and University of Maryland, Baltimore Campus, with the highest annual expenses for a full–time resident undergraduate.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-504 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 5. Delegate Scholarships
§ 18–504LinkCopy Citation
(a)
A Delegate may award two part–time scholarships for each full–time scholarship available.
(b)
A part–time scholarship may not be for more than twice as many years as a full–time scholarship.
(c)
Each recipient of a part–time scholarship shall carry at least 6 semester hours of courses each semester in a program leading to a degree.
(d)
On request from an applicant of the scholarship with a documented disability, the Maryland Higher Education Commission may waive the requirement in subsection (c) of this section.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-505 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 5. Delegate Scholarships
§ 18–505LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Each recipient of a full-time Delegate Scholarship may use the scholarship to attend summer school.
(b)
The term of a full-time Delegate Scholarship shall be shortened by one-half year for each summer of use.
(c)
The amount used for summer school may not exceed one-half of the value of the award for the next academic year.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-506 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 5. Delegate Scholarships
§ 18–506LinkCopy Citation
(a)
As an alternative to the scholarship awards authorized by §§ 18–503 through 18–505 of this subtitle, and subject to the provisions of subsection (b) of this section, during each year in office each Delegate may award scholarships in a total amount equal to four times the tuition and mandatory fees for a full–time undergraduate student enrolled at the University of Maryland, College Park Campus for the academic year commencing in that year.
(b)
A scholarship award under subsection (a) of this section:
(1)
May not be for an amount less than $200 or more than one–half of the total amount of scholarships authorized by subsection (a) of this section for that year;
(2)
Shall be used at an eligible institution;
(3)
May be used by:
(i)
A graduate, undergraduate, or professional student;
(ii)
A student at a private career school within the State that is approved by the Maryland Higher Education Commission under § 11–202 of this article and that is accredited by a national accrediting association that is approved by the United States Department of Education; or
(iii)
A student who is currently enrolled or was enrolled in the last 2 years in a certificate or license program, course, or sequence of courses at a community college that leads to certification or licensure as reimbursement for educational expenses that are defined by the Office and include tuition, mandatory fees, and room and board; and
(4)
To the extent it is not used by the student, shall be recredited to the Delegate’s scholarship account and may be awarded in the next 12 months by that Delegate to another student pursuant to this section.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-507 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 5. Delegate Scholarships
§ 18–507LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Beginning in fiscal year 1996, each Delegate may authorize the Office to award all or a portion of the funds authorized under this subtitle to eligible recipients of a Delegate Howard P. Rawlings Educational Excellence Award who reside in the Delegate’s legislative district.
(b)
In the event that the total number of eligible recipients of a Delegate Howard P. Rawlings Educational Excellence Award who reside in the Delegate’s legislative district is insufficient to utilize the total amount of funds available to the Delegate for any fiscal year, the Office of Student Financial Assistance may, with the consent of the Delegate, award the unused funds to other eligible recipients throughout the State.
Subtitle 6. Scholarships for Uniformed Services and Public Safety Personnel and Their Dependents and the Dependents of Certain School Employees
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-601 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 6. Scholarships for Uniformed Services and Public Safety Personnel and Their Dependents and the Dependents of Certain School Employees
§ 18–601LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
(2)
“Disabled public safety employee” means a State or local public safety employee who sustains an injury in the line of duty that:
(i)
Precludes the individual from continuing to serve or be employed as a State or local public safety employee; and
(ii)
In the case of a volunteer member of a fire department or ambulance or rescue company or squad, precludes the member from continuing to be employed in the nonpublic safety occupation in which the member is engaged at the time of the injury.
(3)
“Fund” means the Edward T. Conroy and Jean B. Cryor Scholarship Fund.
(4)
“School employee” includes an employee of a public or nonpublic school in the State.
(5)
“State or local public safety employee” means a person who is employed in the State as:
(i)
A career or volunteer member of a:
(1)
Fire department;
(2)
Ambulance company or squad; or
(3)
Rescue company or squad;
(ii)
A law enforcement officer;
(iii)
A correctional officer; or
(iv)
A member of the Maryland National Guard who was a resident of this State at the time of death.
(6)
“Surviving spouse” means a person who has not remarried.
(7)
“Victim of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks” means a Maryland resident who was killed as a result of the attacks on the World Trade Center in New York City, the attack on the Pentagon in Virginia, or the crash of United Airlines Flight 93 in Pennsylvania.
(b)
There is a program of scholarships that are awarded by eligible postsecondary institutions under this section.
(c)
(1)
The program for uniformed services and public safety personnel and their eligible dependents is the Edward T. and Mary A. Conroy Memorial Scholarship Program.
(2)
The program for eligible dependents of public and nonpublic school employees is the Jean B. Cryor Memorial Scholarship Program.
(d)
(1)
A person may apply to an eligible postsecondary institution for a scholarship under this section if the person:
(i)
(1)
Is accepted for admission or enrolled in the regular undergraduate, graduate or professional program at an eligible institution;
(2)
Is enrolled in a 2–year terminal certificate program in which the course work is acceptable for transfer credit for an accredited baccalaureate program in an eligible institution; or
(3)
Is enrolled in a private career school;
(ii)
Is at least 16 years old; and
(iii)
Meets the other eligibility criteria specified in this section.
(2)
To apply for a scholarship under this section, the following persons are required to be a resident of Maryland at the time of application or at the time of the disabling or fatal event:
(i)
A son, daughter, stepson, stepdaughter, or the surviving spouse of a member of the uniformed services who:
(1)
Died as a result of service after December 7, 1941;
(2)
Suffered a service connected 100% permanent disability after December 7, 1941; or
(3)
Was declared to be a prisoner of war or missing in action, if that occurred on or after January 1, 1960, as a result of the Vietnam conflict, and if the child was born prior to or while the parent was a prisoner of war or missing in action;
(ii)
A prisoner of war or missing in action, if that occurred on or after January 1, 1960, as a result of the Vietnam conflict and was a resident of this State at the time the person was declared to be a prisoner of war or missing in action;
(iii)
A veteran who:
(1)
Suffers a service connected disability of 25% or greater; and
(2)
Has exhausted or is no longer eligible for federal veterans’ educational benefits;
(iv)
A son, daughter, stepson, or stepdaughter of or the surviving spouse of a victim of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks;
(v)
A son, daughter, stepson, or stepdaughter of a school employee who, as a result of an act of violence:
(1)
Died in the line of duty; or
(2)
Sustained an injury in the line of duty that rendered the school employee 100% disabled; or
(vi)
The surviving spouse of a school employee who, as a result of an act of violence:
(1)
Died in the line of duty; or
(2)
Sustained an injury in the line of duty that rendered the school employee 100% disabled.
(3)
To apply for a scholarship under this section, the following persons are not required to be a resident of Maryland at the time of application or at the time of the disabling or fatal event:
(i)
(1)
A son, daughter, stepson, or stepdaughter of any State or local public safety employee killed in the line of duty; or
(2)
The surviving spouse of any State or local public safety employee killed in the line of duty; or
(ii)
(1)
A disabled public safety employee;
(2)
A son, daughter, stepson, or stepdaughter of a disabled public safety employee who sustains an injury in the line of duty that renders the public safety employee 100% disabled; or
(3)
The surviving spouse of a disabled public safety employee who sustains an injury in the line of duty that renders the public safety employee 100% disabled.
(e)
A scholarship awarded under this section:
(1)
May be used for the tuition and mandatory fees at any eligible institution; and
(2)
May not:
(i)
Exceed the equivalent annual tuition and mandatory fees of a resident undergraduate student at the 4–year public institution of higher education within the University System of Maryland, other than the University of Maryland Global Campus and University of Maryland, Baltimore Campus, with the highest annual expenses for a full–time resident undergraduate; and
(ii)
Be less than the lesser of:
(1)
$3,000; or
(2)
The equivalent annual tuition and mandatory fees of a resident of the institution attended by the recipient of the scholarship.
(f)
(1)
Each postsecondary institution shall determine the eligibility of persons who apply to the institution for the Edward T. and Mary A. Conroy Memorial Scholarship Program and the Jean B. Cryor Memorial Scholarship Program.
(2)
Funds for the Edward T. and Mary A. Conroy Memorial Scholarship Program and the Jean B. Cryor Memorial Scholarship Program shall be allocated by the Commission to each postsecondary institution based on a formula determined by the Commission, which may include prior year enrollment, eligible recipients, and institutional tuition and fees.
(3)
In October and February of each year, each postsecondary institution shall report to the Commission the number of eligible recipients attending the institution.
(4)
(i)
The Commission shall allocate funds for awards to postsecondary institutions subject to the availability of funds as provided in the State budget.
(ii)
Each postsecondary institution may make awards to eligible students subject to the allocation of funds from the Commission under subparagraph (i) of this paragraph.
(5)
The Commission shall adopt guidelines to implement this subsection.
(g)
(1)
Each recipient of a scholarship under this section may hold the award for 5 years of full–time study or 8 years of part–time study.
(2)
The number of eligible recipients under subsection (d)(2)(iii) of this section shall be limited to 15 each year.
(3)
An award provided under subsection (d)(2)(iv) of this section may not exceed the amount specified in subsection (e)(2) of this section when combined with any other scholarship received by a student based on the student’s status as a child or spouse of a victim of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
(4)
Subject to a recipient’s continued eligibility under subsection (d) of this section and the availability of funds under subsection (f) of this section, an awarding authority shall give priority to a recipient of a scholarship before awarding funds to new applicants.
(h)
(1)
There is an Edward T. Conroy and Jean B. Cryor Scholarship Fund.
(2)
The Commission shall administer the Fund.
(3)
The Fund is a special, nonlapsing fund that is not subject to § 7–302 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.
(4)
The State Treasurer shall hold the Fund and the Comptroller shall account for the Fund.
(5)
The Commission:
(i)
May accept any gift or grant from any person for the Fund;
(ii)
Shall use any gift or grant that it receives for a scholarship from the programs; and
(iii)
Shall deposit any gift or grant that it receives for the programs with the State Treasurer.
(i)
For fiscal year 2024 and each fiscal year thereafter, the Governor shall include in the annual budget bill an appropriation of at least $4,000,000 to the Fund.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-602 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 6. Scholarships for Uniformed Services and Public Safety Personnel and Their Dependents and the Dependents of Certain School Employees
§ 18–602LinkCopy Citation
(a)
There is a program of scholarships for children of volunteer firefighters or volunteer ambulance or rescue squad members who died or were disabled by an accident resulting from:
(1)
Performing any duties necessary to the operation or maintenance of the fire company; or
(2)
Actively participating in the ambulance or rescue squad work of an incorporated volunteer fire company or volunteer ambulance or rescue squad in the State.
(b)
The recipient of a scholarship under this section shall be a graduate of an accredited high school.
(c)
The Board of Trustees of the Maryland State Firefighters Association, in its discretion, shall:
(1)
Determine the amount of each award; and
(2)
Select the recipient of each award.
(d)
The Maryland State Firefighters Association shall provide the funds for these awards.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-603.1 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 6. Scholarships for Uniformed Services and Public Safety Personnel and Their Dependents and the Dependents of Certain School Employees
§ 18–603.1LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
(2)
“Eligible institution” means a public or private nonprofit institution of higher education in the State that possesses a certificate of approval from the Commission.
(3)
“Fund” means the Charles W. Riley Firefighter and Ambulance and Rescue Squad Member Scholarship Fund.
(4)
“Scholarship” means the Charles W. Riley Firefighter and Ambulance and Rescue Squad Member Scholarship.
(b)
There is a Charles W. Riley Firefighter and Ambulance and Rescue Squad Member Scholarship.
(c)
An individual may apply to the Office for the scholarship if the individual:
(1)
Is a resident of Maryland;
(2)
Is accepted for admission or enrolled in a course offered at an eligible institution; and
(3)
Is actively engaged as a career or volunteer firefighter or ambulance or rescue squad member in an organized fire department or ambulance or rescue squad in the State.
(d)
(1)
A scholarship awarded under this section:
(i)
May be used for the tuition and mandatory fees at any eligible institution; and
(ii)
May be up to:
(1)
100% of the equivalent annual tuition and mandatory fees of a resident student at a 2–year public institution of higher education established under Title 16 of this article with the highest annual expenses for a full–time resident student; or
(2)
50% of the equivalent annual tuition and mandatory fees of a resident undergraduate student at the 4–year public institution of higher education within the University System of Maryland, other than the University of Maryland Global Campus and University of Maryland, Baltimore Campus, with the highest annual expenses for a full–time resident undergraduate.
(2)
Any student financial aid, other than a student loan, awarded to a scholarship recipient shall be credited to the recipient’s tuition before the calculation of any award amount provided through the scholarship.
(3)
Initial awards shall be provided to scholarship recipients on a first–come, first–served basis.
(e)
A scholarship recipient shall maintain a grade point average of at least 2.5 on a 4.0 scale.
(f)
Each recipient of a scholarship under this section may hold the award for 5 years of full–time study or 8 years of part–time study.
(g)
A Senator or Delegate may authorize the Office to award all or a portion of the funds authorized under Subtitles 4 and 5 of this title to eligible recipients of scholarships awarded under this section.
(h)
(1)
Funds for the Charles W. Riley Firefighter and Ambulance and Rescue Squad Member Scholarship shall be as provided in the annual budget of the Commission by the Governor.
(2)
There is a Charles W. Riley Firefighter and Ambulance and Rescue Squad Member Scholarship Fund in the Commission.
(3)
The Commission shall administer the Fund.
(4)
The Fund is a special, nonlapsing fund that is not subject to § 7–302 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.
(5)
The State Treasurer shall hold the Fund separately and the Comptroller shall account for the Fund.
(6)
The Commission:
(i)
May accept any gift or grant from any person or corporation for the Fund;
(ii)
Shall use any gift or grant that it receives for a scholarship from the Fund; and
(iii)
Shall deposit any gift or grant that it receives for the Fund with the State Treasurer.
(7)
(i)
At the end of the fiscal year, the Commission shall prepare an annual report on the Fund that includes an accounting of all financial receipts and expenditures to and from the Fund.
(ii)
The Commission shall submit a copy of the report to the General Assembly in accordance with § 2–1257 of the State Government Article.
(i)
A recipient of a scholarship shall work for at least 1 year as a volunteer or career firefighter or ambulance or rescue squad member in an organized fire department or ambulance or rescue squad in the State after completion of study at an eligible institution.
(j)
A scholarship recipient shall repay the Commission the funds received under this section if the recipient does not perform the service obligation required under subsection (i) of this section.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-604 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 6. Scholarships for Uniformed Services and Public Safety Personnel and Their Dependents and the Dependents of Certain School Employees
§ 18–604LinkCopy Citation
(a)
For purposes of this section, an individual served in the Afghanistan or Iraq conflict if the individual was an active service member who served in:
(1)
Afghanistan or contiguous air space, as defined in federal regulations, on or after October 24, 2001; or
(2)
Iraq or contiguous waters or air space, as defined in federal regulations, on or after March 19, 2003.
(b)
There is a Douglas J. J. Peters Veterans of the Afghanistan and Iraq Conflicts Scholarship.
(c)
An individual may apply to the Office for a scholarship under this section if the individual:
(1)
Is a resident of Maryland;
(2)
(i)
Is accepted for admission or enrolled in the regular undergraduate program at an eligible institution; or
(ii)
Is accepted for admission or enrolled in a 2–year terminal certificate program in which the course work is acceptable for transfer credit for an accredited baccalaureate program in an eligible institution; and
(3)
(i)
(1)
Is a veteran who served in the Afghanistan or Iraq conflict;
(2)
Is an active service member who served in the Afghanistan or Iraq conflict; or
(3)
Is a member of a reserve component who was activated as a result of the Afghanistan or Iraq conflict described in subsection (a) of this section; or
(ii)
Is a son, daughter, stepson, stepdaughter, or spouse of:
(1)
A veteran or an active service member who is serving or has served in the Afghanistan or Iraq conflict; or
(2)
A member of the reserve component who was activated as a result of the Afghanistan or Iraq conflict described in subsection (a) of this section.
(d)
A scholarship awarded under this section may supplement, but is not contingent on, any federal education benefits for which a recipient qualifies as a result of an individual’s service or status as a dependent of an active service member or of a veteran.
(e)
(1)
Each scholarship may be used, at any eligible institution, to pay for educational expenses as defined by the Office, including:
(i)
Tuition and mandatory fees; and
(ii)
Room and board.
(2)
The annual amount of a scholarship may not exceed 50% of the equivalent annual tuition, mandatory fees, and room and board of a resident undergraduate student at the 4–year public institution of higher education within the University System of Maryland, other than the University of Maryland Global Campus and University of Maryland, Baltimore Campus, with the highest annual expenses for a full–time resident undergraduate.
(f)
A scholarship recipient shall maintain a grade point average of at least 2.5 on a 4.0 scale.
(g)
Each recipient of a scholarship under this section may hold the award for 5 years of full–time study or 8 years of part–time study.
(h)
(1)
A scholarship recipient is not required to submit an application for federal or State financial aid.
(2)
Scholarship recipients who file for financial aid must file by March 1 of each year.
(i)
A Senator or Delegate may authorize the Office to award all or a portion of the funds authorized under Subtitles 4 and 5 of this title to eligible recipients of scholarships awarded under this section.
(j)
(1)
Funds for the Douglas J. J. Peters Veterans of the Afghanistan and Iraq Conflicts Scholarship shall be as provided in the annual budget of the Commission by the Governor.
(2)
(i)
In this subsection, “Fund” means the Douglas J. J. Peters Veterans of the Afghanistan and Iraq Conflicts Scholarship Fund.
(ii)
There is a Douglas J. J. Peters Veterans of the Afghanistan and Iraq Conflicts Scholarship Fund in the Commission.
(iii)
The Commission shall administer the Fund.
(iv)
The Fund is a special, nonlapsing fund that is not subject to § 7–302 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.
(v)
The State Treasurer shall hold the Fund separately and the Comptroller shall account for the Fund.
(vi)
The Commission:
(1)
May accept any gift or grant from any person or corporation for the Fund;
(2)
Shall use any gift or grant that it receives for a scholarship from the Fund; and
(3)
Shall deposit any gift or grant that it receives for the Fund with the State Treasurer.
(3)
(i)
At the end of the fiscal year, the Commission shall prepare an annual report on the Fund that includes an accounting of all financial receipts and expenditures to and from the Fund.
(ii)
The Commission shall submit a copy of the report to the General Assembly as provided under § 2–1257 of the State Government Article.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-605 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 6. Scholarships for Uniformed Services and Public Safety Personnel and Their Dependents and the Dependents of Certain School Employees
§ 18–605LinkCopy Citation
(a)
There is a Richard W. Collins III Leadership With Honor Scholarship Program.
(b)
An individual is eligible for a scholarship under this section if the individual is:
(1)
Eligible for in–State tuition;
(2)
A member of a Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) program;
(3)
A minority student or a student who is a member of another group historically underrepresented in Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) programs; and
(4)
A student at a historically black college or university in the State.
(c)
The Office shall:
(1)
Award at least 25% of its total annual grant money to students at Bowie State University;
(2)
Award the remaining amount of its total annual grant money to students at historically black colleges and universities other than Bowie State University;
(3)
Determine the amount of each award;
(4)
Select the recipient of each award; and
(5)
Prioritize students with financial need in selecting recipients of each award.
(d)
The Governor shall include in the State budget an annual appropriation of at least $1,000,000 to the Program.
(e)
The Office shall adopt procedures or regulations necessary to implement this section.
Subtitle 7. Economic Development Grants
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-708 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 7. Economic Development Grants
§ 18–708LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
(2)
“Advisory Council” means the Advisory Council on Workforce Shortage.
(3)
“Eligible institution” means a public or private nonprofit institution of higher education in this State that possesses a certificate of approval from the Commission.
(4)
“Fund” means the Workforce Shortage Student Assistance Grant Fund.
(5)
“Grant” means the Workforce Shortage Student Assistance grant.
(6)
“Public good or benefit” means service to low–income or underserved residents or areas of the State in an occupation in the public sector or in an organization, institution, association, society, or corporation that is exempt from taxation under § 501(c)(3) or (4) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.
(b)
There is a program of Workforce Shortage Student Assistance grants under this section for students who pledge to work in fields of critical shortage in the State on completion of their studies.
(c)
The purpose of the program is to:
(1)
Provide financial assistance to students enrolled at institutions of higher education in the State; and
(2)
Address the workforce shortage needs of the State.
(d)
A recipient of a Workforce Shortage Student Assistance grant under this section shall:
(1)
Be a resident of the State;
(2)
Be selected by the Office from qualified applicants;
(3)
Sign a letter of intent to enroll at an eligible institution in the State in an eligible program as specified for each field in which there is a critical shortage in this State as provided in this section;
(4)
Sign a letter of intent to perform the service obligation on completion of the recipient’s required studies;
(5)
Accept any other conditions attached to the grant;
(6)
Satisfy any additional criteria the Commission may establish; and
(7)
After completion of studies in an eligible program, perform the service obligation as specified for each field in which there is a critical shortage, as provided in this section.
(e)
(1)
Except as provided in paragraph (5) of this subsection, the Commission shall on a biennial basis:
(i)
Identify workforce shortage fields in the State;
(ii)
Designate eligible workforce shortage fields under the grant program; and
(iii)
Remove from the grant program any field that the Commission determines no longer qualifies as a workforce shortage.
(2)
The Secretary shall appoint an Advisory Council on Workforce Shortage to:
(i)
Identify workforce shortage fields in the State; and
(ii)
Recommend to the Commission:
(1)
Priority workforce shortage fields to be included in the grant program; and
(2)
The removal of fields that in the Advisory Council’s judgment no longer qualify as workforce shortage fields.
(3)
In making recommendations to the Commission, the Advisory Council shall consider whether a workforce shortage field provides a public good or benefit to the citizens of Maryland.
(4)
The Advisory Council shall include the following members:
(i)
The Secretary of Higher Education or designee;
(ii)
The Secretary of Labor or designee;
(iii)
One representative from the Governor’s Workforce Development Board, appointed by the Governor;
(iv)
The Secretary of Commerce or designee;
(v)
The Secretary of Health or designee;
(vi)
The State Superintendent of Schools or designee;
(vii)
One representative of the Senate of Maryland, appointed by the President of the Senate;
(viii)
One representative of the Maryland House of Delegates, appointed by the Speaker of the House;
(ix)
Two representatives from the University System of Maryland, appointed by the Chancellor;
(x)
The President of Morgan State University or designee;
(xi)
The President of St. Mary’s College or designee; and
(xii)
Representatives nominated by the following organizations and appointed by the Secretary of Higher Education:
(1)
One representative from the Maryland Chamber of Commerce;
(2)
One representative from the Washington Board of Trade;
(3)
One representative from the Greater Baltimore Committee;
(4)
Two representatives from the Maryland Independent College and University Association;
(5)
Two representatives from the Maryland Association of Community Colleges;
(6)
One representative from the Maryland Association of Nonprofit Associations; and
(7)
One representative from the Financial Assistance Advisory Council representing a financial aid office at an institution of higher education.
(5)
(i)
Except as provided in subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, the following workforce shortage fields shall be included in the grant program:
(1)
School teachers (the grant to be known as the Sharon Christa McAuliffe Memorial Teacher Scholarship);
(2)
Social workers (the grant to be known as the Ruth M. Kirk Public Social Work Scholarship);
(3)
Nurses;
(4)
Child care providers (the grant to be known as the Hattie N. Harrison Memorial Scholarship);
(5)
Developmental disabilities, mental health, child welfare, and juvenile justice providers (the grant to be known as the Ida G. and L. Leonard Ruben Scholarships);
(6)
Physical and occupational therapists and assistants; and
(7)
Public servants (the grant to be known as the William Donald Schaefer Scholarship and the grant to be known as the Parren J. Mitchell Public Service Scholarship).
(ii)
The Commission may remove a shortage field specified in subparagraph (i) of this paragraph if in the Commission’s judgment the field no longer qualifies as a workforce shortage field.
(6)
A grant recipient in a workforce shortage field that is removed from the grant program may continue to receive renewal awards under the program.
(f)
Each fiscal year, the Commission shall determine the number of grants to be awarded in eligible workforce shortage fields based on the:
(1)
Priority of the workforce shortage field;
(2)
Severity of the workforce shortage in the field; and
(3)
Availability of funds.
(g)
(1)
The Office shall annually select eligible students and offer a grant to each student selected to be used at an eligible institution of the student’s choice.
(2)
Eligible students shall be selected based on academic accomplishment and financial need, as determined by standards established and approved by the Commission.
(3)
Each grant shall be renewable for a maximum of 5 years subsequent to the original grant if the recipient:
(i)
Continues to meet the qualifications specified in subsection (d) of this section; and
(ii)
Meets satisfactory academic progress standards as determined by the eligible institution.
(h)
A grant recipient:
(1)
May be enrolled at an eligible institution on a part–time or full–time basis;
(2)
Shall earn at least 12 undergraduate or 9 graduate credit hours in each academic year, including summer sessions;
(3)
Except as provided in paragraph (4) of this subsection, shall be an undergraduate student at an eligible institution; and
(4)
May be a graduate student if the Office determines that the shortage field requires employees with a graduate level education.
(i)
(1)
In this subsection, “cost of attendance” means the equivalent annual tuition and mandatory fees of a resident undergraduate student at the 4–year public institution of higher education within the University System of Maryland, other than the University of Maryland Global Campus and University of Maryland, Baltimore Campus, with the highest annual expenses for a full–time resident undergraduate.
(2)
Subject to paragraphs (3), (4), and (5) of this subsection, the Commission shall establish in guidelines the annual grant awards under this section.
(3)
Annual grant awards shall be within the following ranges:
(i)
For a part–time student attending a 2–year eligible institution – $1,000 and 12.5% of cost of attendance;
(ii)
For a full–time student attending a 2–year eligible institution – $2,000 and 25% of cost of attendance;
(iii)
For a part–time student attending a 4–year eligible institution – $2,000 and 25% of cost of attendance; and
(iv)
For a full–time student attending a 4–year eligible institution – $4,000 and 50% of cost of attendance.
(4)
For a student taking courses during a summer session to meet the minimum number of credit hours for full–time or part–time status, the Commission shall distribute grant awards to the student in the spring and summer sessions in amounts it determines to be appropriate.
(5)
A student who is enrolled in an academic program that includes a mandatory summer academic session as part of the approved curriculum may receive an additional award not to exceed $1,000 per calendar year.
(j)
The grant award may be used at any eligible institution for educational expenses as defined by the Commission, including tuition, mandatory fees, and room and board.
(k)
(1)
A grant recipient shall perform a service obligation in the recipient’s field of critical shortage in:
(i)
A full–time position at a rate of 1 year for each year that the recipient receives a grant awarded under this section; or
(ii)
A part–time position at a rate of 2 years for each year that the recipient receives a grant awarded under this section.
(2)
The Commission may establish alternative service obligation requirements for designated workforce shortage fields to address statewide and regional needs.
(l)
(1)
A grant recipient shall repay the Commission the funds received as set forth in § 18–112 of this title if the recipient does not:
(i)
Earn at least 12 undergraduate or 9 graduate credit hours in each academic year in which the student receives assistance, including summer sessions;
(ii)
Complete the specified degree, attain the licensure or certification required, or fulfill other requirements as provided in this section; or
(iii)
Perform the service obligation required under subsection (k) of this section.
(2)
The Office shall waive the repayment of a grant award at a rate of:
(i)
1 year for each year that the recipient performs the service obligation on a full–time basis; or
(ii)
6 months for each year that the recipient performs the service obligation on a part–time basis.
(3)
A recipient shall begin repayment at any time during the period that the recipient is no longer performing the service obligation.
(4)
A recipient may delay repayment as long as the recipient remains a student enrolled at least part–time in a degree–granting program.
(5)
Except as otherwise provided in this section, repayment shall be made to the State within 6 years after the repayment period begins and shall follow a repayment schedule established by the Office.
(6)
The Office may waive or defer repayment in the event of disability or extended sickness which prevents the recipient from fulfilling the service obligation required under this section.
(7)
The Office shall grant a deferment from the service obligation required under this section to:
(i)
An active service member who has been assigned duty outside the State; or
(ii)
The spouse of an active service member who has been assigned duty outside the State.
(m)
(1)
This subsection applies to recipients of the William Donald Schaefer Scholarship specified in subsection (e)(5) of this section.
(2)
The Commission shall annually select eligible students and offer grants to students who demonstrate outstanding potential for and who plan to pursue a career in public service to assist in providing legal services to low–income residents in the State.
(3)
In making William Donald Schaefer Scholarship awards under this section, the Commission shall endeavor to select award recipients who are representative of the State’s rich cultural, geographic, racial, ethnic, and gender diversity.
(4)
Each individual awarded a William Donald Schaefer Scholarship under this section must have indicated and demonstrated to the Commission a serious intent to enter public service on the completion of the student’s educational program.
(n)
(1)
This subsection applies to recipients of the Parren J. Mitchell Public Service Scholarship specified in subsection (e)(5) of this section.
(2)
The Commission shall annually select eligible students and offer grants to students who demonstrate outstanding potential for and who plan to pursue a career in public service and assist in providing:
(i)
Social work services to low–income residents in the State;
(ii)
Nursing services in nursing shortage areas in the State as defined in § 18–802 of this title; or
(iii)
Other services in the public or nonprofit sectors in which there is a shortage of qualified practitioners to low–income or underserved residents or areas of the State.
(3)
In making Parren J. Mitchell Public Service Scholarship awards under this section, the Commission shall endeavor to select award recipients who are representative of the State’s rich cultural, geographic, racial, ethnic, and gender diversity.
(4)
Each individual awarded a Parren J. Mitchell Public Service Scholarship under this section must have indicated and demonstrated to the Commission a serious intent to enter public service on the completion of the student’s educational program.
(o)
(1)
There is a Workforce Shortage Student Assistance Grant Fund in the Commission.
(2)
The Commission shall administer the Fund.
(3)
The Fund is a special, nonlapsing fund that is not subject to § 7–302 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.
(4)
The State Treasurer shall hold the Fund separately and the Comptroller shall account for the Fund.
(5)
The Commission:
(i)
May accept any gift or grant from any person or corporation for the Fund;
(ii)
Shall use any gift or grant that it receives for a grant award from the Fund; and
(iii)
Shall deposit any gift or grant that it receives for the Fund with the State Treasurer.
(6)
(i)
At the end of the fiscal year, the Commission shall prepare an annual report on the Fund that includes an accounting of all financial receipts and expenditures to and from the Fund.
(ii)
The Commission shall submit a copy of the report to the General Assembly as provided under § 2–1257 of the State Government Article.
(p)
A recipient may hold a Workforce Shortage Student Assistance grant and any other State grant or scholarship awarded by the Office provided that the total of all grants and scholarships does not exceed:
(1)
The student’s total cost of attendance, as certified by the institution where the student is enrolled; and
(2)
The cost of attendance, as defined in subsection (i) of this section.
(q)
Funds for the Workforce Shortage Student Assistance grant program shall be as provided in the annual budget of the Commission by the Governor.
(r)
The Commission shall adopt guidelines or regulations necessary to implement this section.
Subtitle 8. Medical, Dental, and Nursing Scholarships
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-801 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 8. Medical, Dental, and Nursing Scholarships
§ 18–801LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Each county may establish a program of county scholarships for students of medicine, dentistry, or nursing, and may levy and pay any amount required for this purpose.
(b)
The county council, board of county commissioners, or Mayor and City Council of Baltimore City may determine the amount to be awarded, the number of these scholarships, and the method of selecting the recipients.
(c)
An award granted under this section:
(1)
May not be held by the same student for more than 4 years; and
(2)
May be used for educational expenses, including:
(i)
Tuition and mandatory fees;
(ii)
Room and board; and
(iii)
Books.
(d)
Each recipient of a scholarship under this section shall give a bond to the county, with security satisfactory to it, that after graduation he will practice his profession in the county for at least:
(1)
5 years if the scholarship is for medicine or dentistry; or
(2)
3 years if the scholarship is for nursing.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-802 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 8. Medical, Dental, and Nursing Scholarships
§ 18–802LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
(2)
“Eligible institution” means an institution of postsecondary education:
(i)
Approved to operate by the Maryland Higher Education Commission; and
(ii)
That awards nursing degrees or diplomas.
(3)
“Eligible organization” means an institution, including a licensed hospital, nursing home, adult day care center, public health agency, home health agency, or other organization authorized by the Secretary of Health.
(4)
“Medical education center” means an institution:
(i)
Whose objectives include the education of medical and allied health personnel; and
(ii)
That has residency programs or full departments in at least three primary care areas.
(5)
“Nurse practitioner” means a nurse practitioner as defined by the rules and regulations of the State Board of Nursing.
(6)
“Nursing shortage area” means a recognized area of nursing service or specialization determined by the Secretary of Health to be an area where there exists a shortage of qualified nurses in eligible organizations.
(7)
“Nursing student” means a student enrolled in a postsecondary nursing education degree or diploma program at an eligible institution.
(8)
“Physician assistant” means an individual licensed under Title 15 of the Health Occupations Article to practice as a physician assistant.
(9)
“Primary care” means family practice, general internal medicine, and general pediatrics.
(b)
(1)
There is a Maryland Physician Assistant–Nurse Practitioner Training Program that provides financial support to institutions with training programs for physician assistants and nurse practitioners in primary care in this State administered by the Office. An institution may participate if its program:
(i)
Is accredited by the American Medical Association, the American Nurses Association, or the National League of Nursing;
(ii)
Produces graduates eligible to take:
(1)
The primary care physician assistant certifying examination of the National Commission on the Certification of Physician Assistants; or
(2)
The primary care in adult and family nursing practice certifying examination or any other examination required by the State Board of Nursing;
(iii)
Is part of, or has a formal arrangement with, a medical education center;
(iv)
Focuses on developing primary care skills and includes substantial clinical experience in primary care; and
(v)
Is not a specialty program in a discipline other than primary care.
(2)
The Physician Assistant–Nurse Practitioner Training Program consists of grants to an eligible medical education center for each individual who completes the program in physician assistant or nurse practitioner training in the amount of:
(i)
$3,000 for each physician assistant; and
(ii)
$1,500 for each nurse practitioner.
(c)
If the total amount of the grants to be made under this section for physician assistants–nurse practitioners is more than $72,000 annually, then the amount of a medical education center’s grant for that period shall be equal to the product of:
(1)
The amount required to pay grants for that center; times
(2)
The ratio of the total amount appropriated to the total amount required to pay grants under this section to all centers.
(d)
A grant may not be awarded to a medical education center that has discontinued its program in physician assistant or nurse practitioner training.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-803 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 8. Medical, Dental, and Nursing Scholarships
§ 18–803LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
(2)
“Eligible institution” means an institution of postsecondary education that:
(i)
Is approved to operate by the Maryland Higher Education Commission; and
(ii)
Produces graduates eligible to take the appropriate national examination for licensure, certification, or registration in the relevant health occupation determined to be in short supply.
(3)
“Grant” means the Health Personnel Shortage Incentive Grant for eligible institutions offering educational programs leading to licensure, certification, or registration in health occupations determined to be in short supply.
(4)
“Health occupation” means:
(i)
A physical therapist or a physical therapist assistant who has at least an Associate degree in physical therapy;
(ii)
An occupational therapist or an occupational therapist assistant who has at least an Associate degree in occupational therapy;
(iii)
A radiographer;
(iv)
A respiratory therapist;
(v)
A laboratory technician;
(vi)
A medical technologist;
(vii)
A pharmacist;
(viii)
A registered nurse or licensed practical nurse; or
(ix)
A physician who engages in family practice or pediatrics.
(b)
(1)
There is a Health Personnel Shortage Incentive Grant Program for eligible institutions.
(2)
The Office of Student Financial Assistance shall administer the Grant Program as provided in this section.
(3)
In consultation with the Secretary of Health, the Office shall adopt regulations to implement the Grant Program.
(c)
An eligible institution is qualified to receive a grant under this section if the institution:
(1)
Has an approved education program leading to licensure, certification, or registration in a health occupation determined to be in short supply; and
(2)
Funds the approved education program at an amount not less than the preceding fiscal year.
(d)
(1)
Except as provided in subsection (e) of this section, an eligible institution shall receive a grant in the amount of $1,500 for each student who graduates from an approved education program leading to licensure, certification, or registration in a health occupation determined to be in short supply, that is in excess of the lowest number of students who graduated from the approved education program at that eligible institution commencing in the academic year 1990–91.
(2)
For purposes of paragraph (1) of this subsection, the Commission shall establish, in consultation with each appropriate eligible institution, that institution’s threshold number of students.
(e)
(1)
If the total amount of the grant to be issued under subsection (d) of this section is more than the amount appropriated in the annual State budget, the amount of an eligible institution’s grant for that period shall be equal to the product of the amount required to pay grants under subsection (d) of this section multiplied by the ratio of the total amount appropriated to the eligible institution.
(2)
Except as provided in paragraph (3) of this subsection, any unspent portions of the money that is transferred to the Office for use under this section by the Comptroller may not be transferred to or revert to the General Fund of the State, but shall remain in the Fund maintained by the Office to administer these programs to be used for the purposes specified in this section.
(3)
An amount not exceeding $100,000 of the unspent portion of the money that is transferred to the Office for use under this section may be transferred to or revert to the General Fund of the State in order to offset the costs of the tax credit available under § 10–739 of the Tax – General Article.
(f)
The eligible institution shall use the grant to enhance or expand approved education programs leading to licensure or certification in health occupations determined to be in short supply.
(g)
(1)
In accordance with § 1–204 of the Health Occupations Article, the Secretary of Health shall certify annually to the Maryland Higher Education Commission those health occupations in short supply.
(2)
In any year in which a health occupation is determined by the Secretary of Health to be no longer in short supply, the Office shall discontinue issuing new grants under this section for that health occupation, provided that the existing grants shall continue for the students who are enrolled in prior to and who subsequently graduate from the approved education program after the determination is made by the Secretary.
Subtitle 9. Postgraduate Fellowships
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-901 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 9. Postgraduate Fellowships
§ 18–901LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this section, “University” means the University of Maryland, College Park Campus.
(b)
There is a program of fellowships for postgraduate work in the Graduate School of the University known as the Judith A. Resnik Memorial Postgraduate Fellowship Program.
(c)
Each recipient of a fellowship awarded under this section:
(1)
Shall be a graduate of a standard 4–year college course in an institution of higher education accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools or an equivalent regional accrediting agency; and
(2)
Shall be recommended for graduate study by the executive head of the institution from which the recipient graduated.
(d)
If possible, residents of this State shall receive preference in the award of these fellowships.
(e)
The University shall cooperate with the accredited institutions of higher education in this State by specifying each year the requirements of the graduate school, the standards for determining eligibility for fellowships, and the fields of greatest need for qualified faculty in the public institutions of higher education in this State.
(f)
Each fellowship:
(1)
May not be for less than $200 a single year or for more than the highest 10–month stipend for a graduate assistant.
(2)
May be held for 3 years if the recipient:
(i)
Continues to be a full–time student at the University and carries at least 12 semester hours of courses each semester;
(ii)
In the judgment of the University, is making satisfactory progress towards a degree; and
(iii)
Maintains the department standards of the University.
(g)
(1)
Each year, the fellowship committee of the University shall certify not more than 18 fellowships to qualified applicants as the amount appropriated to the program that year allows.
(2)
The award of such fellowships shall be made when possible so as to promote compliance with the State of Maryland desegregation goals.
(3)
If possible:
(i)
The distribution shall be made as wide as possible to graduates of accredited institutions of higher education in this State; and
(ii)
Consideration shall be given to the greatest need in securing qualified faculties in the public institutions of higher education in this State.
Subtitle 12. Private Career School Student Grant Program
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1201 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 12. Private Career School Student Grant Program
§ 18–1201LinkCopy Citation
There is a program of private career school student grants in this State, known as the Jack F. Tolbert Memorial Student Grant Program, that are awarded under this subtitle.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1202 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 12. Private Career School Student Grant Program
§ 18–1202LinkCopy Citation
The Office shall administer the program of private career school student financial aid grants.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1203 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 12. Private Career School Student Grant Program
§ 18–1203LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Office may not require any competitive examination in determining student eligibility.
(b)
Each applicant for a private career school student grant shall:
(1)
Be accepted for admission at an approved private career school;
(2)
Be enrolled in a full-time program as determined by the Maryland Higher Education Commission;
(3)
Be a resident of this State; and
(4)
Demonstrate to the Office financial need.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1204 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 12. Private Career School Student Grant Program
§ 18–1204LinkCopy Citation
A private career school student grant may be awarded in $100 increments. However, an award for a single year may not be more than $1,500.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1205 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 12. Private Career School Student Grant Program
§ 18–1205LinkCopy Citation
(a)
A private career school student grant may be used at a private career school in this State that:
(1)
Is approved by the Maryland Higher Education Commission;
(2)
Operates solely within the State;
(3)
Does not have an outstanding notice of deficiencies under appeal in accordance with the regulations adopted by the Higher Education Commission;
(4)
Does not have a negative final report under the State Postsecondary Review Program in accordance with 34 C.F.R. § 667.23 as the regulation may be amended; and
(5)
Has not been referred for review under the State Postsecondary Review Program as a result of its student loan default rates in accordance with 34 C.F.R. § 667.5 as the regulation may be amended.
(b)
A grant awarded under this subtitle may be used for tuition charges only.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1206 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 12. Private Career School Student Grant Program
§ 18–1206LinkCopy Citation
Each recipient of a private career school student grant may hold the grant for 2 years if the student:
(1)
Continues to be a resident of this State;
(2)
Continues to be enrolled in a full-time program;
(3)
In the judgment of the institution, is making satisfactory progress toward a certificate of completion; and
(4)
Continues to demonstrate a financial need.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1207 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 12. Private Career School Student Grant Program
§ 18–1207LinkCopy Citation
The Governor shall include in the annual budget bill an appropriation to the Program in an amount not less than $200,000 for the fiscal year that begins on July 1, 1996 and each subsequent fiscal year.
Subtitle 14. Part-Time Grant Program
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1401 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 14. Part-Time Grant Program
§ 18–1401LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this section, “part–time student” means a student who:
(1)
Is enrolled in a degree–granting program at an eligible institution and taking at least 3 but no more than 11 semester hours of courses each semester; or
(2)
Is dually enrolled in a secondary school in the State and an institution of higher education.
(b)
In cooperation with the institutions of higher education in the State, the Commission shall establish and administer a grant program for undergraduate part–time students.
(c)
A recipient of a part–time grant shall:
(1)
Except as provided in § 18–1401.1 of this subtitle, be a resident of the State; and
(2)
Have demonstrated a definite financial need according to criteria established by the Commission.
(d)
For courses completed under the program, a recipient who is dually enrolled in a secondary school in the State and an institution of higher education may not be required to receive credit from a secondary school and an institution of higher education at the same time.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1401.1 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 14. Part-Time Grant Program
§ 18–1401.1LinkCopy Citation
Notwithstanding § 18–1401(c)(1) of this subtitle, an individual is eligible for an award under this subtitle if the individual is eligible for in–State tuition under this article.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1402 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 14. Part-Time Grant Program
§ 18–1402LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Funds for the Part–Time Grant Program shall be allocated by the Commission to each institution of higher education based upon the number of undergraduate part–time students with demonstrated financial need who are enrolled in degree–granting programs at the institution.
(b)
Funds for the grant program for part–time students shall be as provided in the annual budget of the Commission by the Governor.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1403 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 14. Part-Time Grant Program
§ 18–1403LinkCopy Citation
The Commission shall:
(1)
Establish guidelines for the awarding of grants to part-time students; and
(2)
Adopt any other guidelines or regulations necessary for the administration of this subtitle.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1404 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 14. Part-Time Grant Program
§ 18–1404LinkCopy Citation
An institution of higher education that receives State funds under this subtitle shall provide the Commission with an annual audit describing the disposition of the funds.
Subtitle 14A. Dual Enrollment Grant Program
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-14A-01 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 14A. Dual Enrollment Grant Program
§ 18–14A-01LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(2)
“Dually enrolled student” means a student who is dually enrolled in:
(i)
A secondary school in the State; and
(ii)
An institution of higher education in the State.
(3)
“Grant” means the Early College Access Grant.
(b)
There is an Early College Access Grant that provides financial assistance to dually enrolled students in the State.
(c)
In cooperation with institutions of higher education in the State, the Commission shall administer the Grant.
(d)
A recipient of a grant shall:
(1)
Be a dually enrolled student; and
(2)
Demonstrate financial need according to criteria established by the Commission.
(e)
For courses completed under the Grant, a recipient is not required to receive credit from a secondary school and an institution of higher education at the same time.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-14A-02 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 14A. Dual Enrollment Grant Program
§ 18–14A-02LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Funds for the Grant shall be allocated by the Commission to an institution of higher education based on the number of dually enrolled students receiving credit for courses completed at the institution.
(b)
Funds for the Grant shall be as provided in the annual budget of the Commission by the Governor.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-14A-03 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 14A. Dual Enrollment Grant Program
§ 18–14A-03LinkCopy Citation
The Commission shall:
(1)
Establish guidelines for awarding the Grant to dually enrolled students; and
(2)
Adopt any other guidelines or regulations necessary for the administration of this subtitle.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-14A-05 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 14A. Dual Enrollment Grant Program
§ 18–14A-05LinkCopy Citation
Each county board shall make all high school students who meet mutually agreed on enrollment requirements aware of the opportunity to dually enroll under this subtitle.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-14A-06 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 14A. Dual Enrollment Grant Program
§ 18–14A-06LinkCopy Citation
An institution of higher education that receives State funds under this subtitle shall provide the Commission with an annual audit of the use of the funds.
Subtitle 15. Janet L. Hoffman Loan Assistance Repayment Program
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1501 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 15. Janet L. Hoffman Loan Assistance Repayment Program
§ 18–1501LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)
(1)
“Eligible field of employment” means employment in the State by an organization, institution, association, society, or corporation that is exempt from taxation under § 501(c)(3) or (4) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.
(2)
“Eligible field of employment” includes employment by the State or any local government in the State, but does not include being employed as a judicial clerk in any court.
(c)
“Higher education loan” means any loan for undergraduate or graduate study that is obtained for tuition, educational expenses, or living expenses from:
(1)
A college or university, government, or commercial source; or
(2)
An organization, institution, association, society, or corporation that is exempt from taxation under § 501(c)(3) or (4) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.
(d)
(1)
“Mental health professional” means an individual who provides mental health services in public schools and is employed by:
(i)
A county school system; or
(ii)
A local health department to provide school health services through an agreement with a county board.
(2)
“Mental health professional” includes a school psychologist, resource psychologist, psychologist coordinator, social worker, social worker supervisor, school counselor, or mental health coordinator.
(e)
“Program” means the Janet L. Hoffman Loan Assistance Repayment Program.
(f)
“School nurse” means an individual who:
(1)
Is licensed as a registered nurse in accordance with Title 8 of the Health Occupations Article;
(2)
Provides health services in a public school; and
(3)
Is employed by:
(i)
A county school system; or
(ii)
A local health department to provide school health services through an agreement with a county board.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1502 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 15. Janet L. Hoffman Loan Assistance Repayment Program
§ 18–1502LinkCopy Citation
(a)
There is a program of loan assistance repayment known as the Janet L. Hoffman Loan Assistance Repayment Program in the State.
(b)
The Office of Student Financial Assistance shall assist in the repayment of the amount of any higher education loan owed by an individual who:
(1)
(i)
Receives a graduate, professional, or undergraduate degree from:
(1)
A college or university in the State of Maryland;
(2)
A school of law;
(3)
For a mental health professional, any accredited college or university; or
(4)
For a veterinary practitioner or veterinary technician, any accredited veterinary college or university; or
(ii)
Receives a Resident Teacher Certificate (RTC) from the Department after completing an alternative teaching preparation program approved by the State Superintendent;
(2)
Obtains eligible employment;
(3)
Receives an income that is less than the maximum eligible total income levels established by the Office, including any additional sources of income; and
(4)
Satisfies any other criteria established by the Office.
(c)
Subject to the provisions of subsection (b) of this section, the Office shall assist in the repayment of the amount of any higher education loan owed by a:
(1)
Public school teacher in the State who:
(i)
Has taught in Maryland for at least 2 years:
(1)
In science, technology, engineering, fine arts, or math subjects;
(2)
In a school in which at least the following percentages of the students are enrolled in the free and reduced price lunch program in the State:
(A)
75% through June 30, 2025; and
(B)
55% beginning July 1, 2025; or
(3)
In a school that:
(A)
Had Title I status during the 2018–2019 school year;
(B)
Lost Title I status after the 2018–2019 school year; and
(C)
Participates in the United States Department of Agriculture Community Eligibility Provision; and
(ii)
Has received a performance evaluation rating for the most recent year available in the county in which the teacher taught;
(2)
Mental health professional who has provided mental health services in a public school for at least 2 years as an employee of:
(i)
A county school system; or
(ii)
A local health department through an agreement with a county board; or
(3)
Nurse who has been a school nurse for at least 2 years.
(d)
Subject to the provisions of subsection (b) of this section, the Office shall assist in the repayment of the amount of any higher education loan owed by:
(1)
A veterinarian practitioner who has provided veterinary services as:
(i)
An employee in the State for a period not less than 5 years; or
(ii)
A volunteer for a minimum of 100 hours per year for a period not less than 3 years at an animal shelter that is owned by:
(1)
A local government;
(2)
An organization contracted to perform animal control services for a local government; or
(3)
An organization that shelters animals and was a recipient of the Maryland Spay and Neuter Grants Program during the prior year; or
(2)
A veterinary technician who has provided veterinary technician services as:
(i)
An employee in the State for a period not less than 5 years; or
(ii)
A volunteer for a minimum of 100 hours per year for a period not less than 3 years at an animal shelter that is owned by:
(1)
A local government;
(2)
An organization contracted to perform animal control services for a local government; or
(3)
An organization that shelters animals and was a recipient of the Maryland Spay and Neuter Grants Program during the prior year.
(e)
(1)
A grant awarded under subsection (c) of this section shall be known as the Nancy Grasmick Public School Professional Award.
(2)
A recipient of a Nancy Grasmick Public School Professional Award shall be known as a Nancy Grasmick Public School Professional Scholar.
(f)
An applicant for assistance in the repayment of a commercial loan shall demonstrate to the Office that the commercial loan was used for tuition, educational expenses, or living expenses for graduate or undergraduate study.
(g)
Assistance in the repayment of a loan from an entity set forth in § 18–1501(c)(2) of this subtitle shall require the approval of the Office.
(h)
Subject to the provisions of subsection (b) of this section, the Office shall assist in the repayment of the amount of any higher education loan owed by a licensed clinical alcohol and drug counselor, a licensed clinical marriage and family therapy counselor, or a licensed clinical professional counselor whose practice is located in a high–need geographic area of the State as determined by the Maryland Department of Health.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1503 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 15. Janet L. Hoffman Loan Assistance Repayment Program
§ 18–1503LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Office of Student Financial Assistance shall adopt regulations to establish:
(1)
The maximum starting income for eligibility in the Janet L. Hoffman Loan Assistance Repayment Program;
(2)
The maximum total income for eligibility in the Janet L. Hoffman Loan Assistance Repayment Program, including any additional sources of income;
(3)
That priority for participation in the Program shall be given to an individual who:
(i)
Graduated from an institution of higher education in the last 3 years;
(ii)
Is a resident of the State;
(iii)
Is employed on a full–time basis; and
(iv)
(1)
Provides, as the principal part of the individual’s employment, legal services to low–income residents in the State who cannot afford legal services, nursing services in nursing shortage areas in the State as defined in § 18–802 of this title, or other services in an eligible field of employment in which there is a shortage of qualified practitioners to low–income or underserved residents or areas of the State; or
(2)
For teacher, mental health professional, and school nurse applicants only, qualifies for a Nancy Grasmick Public School Professional Award;
(4)
A limit on the total amount of assistance provided by the Office of Student Financial Assistance in repaying the loan of an eligible individual, based on the individual’s total income and outstanding higher education loan balance;
(5)
A procedure and schedule for the monthly or annual payment of the amount of loan assistance provided by the Office of Student Financial Assistance to the eligible individual, as appropriate to assist an eligible individual in meeting loan forgiveness program requirements;
(6)
A requirement that an eligible individual apply to federal loan forgiveness programs for which the individual may qualify;
(7)
A requirement that an eligible individual notify the Office of Student Financial Assistance if the individual receives other loan repayment assistance; and
(8)
An annual review of the eligibility of each individual participating in the Program.
(b)
The Office of Student Financial Assistance shall adopt any other regulations necessary to implement this subtitle.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1504 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 15. Janet L. Hoffman Loan Assistance Repayment Program
§ 18–1504LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Funds for the Janet L. Hoffman Loan Assistance Repayment Program described in subsection (b)(2) of this section shall be allocated by the Commission to an individual who:
(1)
Has received a graduate degree from a school of law; and
(2)
Has submitted an application for the Janet L. Hoffman Loan Assistance Repayment Program that the Commission disapproved due to insufficient funds.
(b)
Funds for the Janet L. Hoffman Loan Assistance Repayment Program shall:
(1)
Be provided on an annual basis in the State budget; and
(2)
Include money paid to the Program from the fee charged for a special admission of an out–of–state attorney under § 7–202(f) of the Courts Article.
(c)
If a federal matching grant loan program furnishes professional services in an eligible field of employment to low–income or underserved residents of the State, the Office may apply not more than 50 percent of the funds provided in the State budget for the Janet L. Hoffman Loan Assistance Repayment Program to the State’s participation in the federal program.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1505 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 15. Janet L. Hoffman Loan Assistance Repayment Program
§ 18–1505LinkCopy Citation
Subject to § 2–1257 of the State Government Article, the Office shall report to the General Assembly by January 1 of each year on the implementation of the Janet L. Hoffman Loan Assistance Repayment Program and the requirements of § 18–28A–05 of this title.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1506 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 15. Janet L. Hoffman Loan Assistance Repayment Program
§ 18–1506LinkCopy Citation
The Office shall publicize the availability of the Program, including by publicizing the Program:
(1)
At historically Black colleges and universities;
(2)
In a manner that focuses on students who are historically underrepresented in the teaching field;
(3)
To eligible mental health professionals in an effort to recruit and retain mental health professionals to public schools in the State; and
(4)
To eligible school nurses in an effort to recruit and retain nurses working in public schools in the State.
Subtitle 16. Math/science Student Corps
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1601 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 16. Math/science Student Corps
§ 18–1601LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)
“Eligible employment” means full-time employment in the State in an occupation requiring a college or university degree in a math or science program.
(c)
“Higher education loan” means any loan for undergraduate study that is obtained for tuition, educational expenses, or living expenses from:
(1)
A college or university, government, or commercial source; or
(2)
An organization, institution, association, society, or corporation that is exempt from taxation under § 501(c)(3) or (4) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1602 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 16. Math/science Student Corps
§ 18–1602LinkCopy Citation
(a)
There is a Math/Science Student Corps to encourage students to enroll in math and science programs and work in occupations in Maryland requiring math and science skills.
(b)
The purpose of the program is to increase the number of graduates who are employed in occupations requiring math and science skills and to provide loan repayment assistance for graduates who work in Maryland.
(c)
The Office may assist in the repayment of any higher education loan owed by an individual who:
(1)
Receives an undergraduate degree in a math or science program from a college or university in Maryland;
(2)
Obtains eligible employment;
(3)
Participates in activities to encourage other students to pursue math and science degree programs and occupations as may be required by the Office; and
(4)
Satisfies any other criteria established by the Office.
(d)
Recipients of loan repayment assistance may participate in the program for a maximum of 4 years.
(e)
An applicant for assistance in the repayment of a commercial loan shall demonstrate to the Office that the commercial loan was used for tuition, educational expenses, or living expenses for undergraduate study.
(f)
Assistance in the repayment of a loan from an entity set forth in § 18-1601(c)(2) of this subtitle shall require the approval of the Office.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1603 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 16. Math/science Student Corps
§ 18–1603LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Office shall adopt guidelines or regulations to establish:
(1)
The math and science degree programs and occupations eligible for the program and review them on an annual basis;
(2)
The criteria for making loan repayment assistance awards;
(3)
A procedure and schedule for the Office to pay eligible individual loan repayment assistance; and
(4)
An annual review of the eligibility of each individual participating in the program.
(b)
The Office shall adopt any other guidelines or regulations necessary to implement this subtitle.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1604 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 16. Math/science Student Corps
§ 18–1604LinkCopy Citation
Funds for the Math/Science Student Corps shall be as provided by the Governor in the annual budget of the Commission.
Subtitle 17. Walter Sondheim Jr. Public Service Internship Scholarship Program
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1701 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 17. Walter Sondheim Jr. Public Service Internship Scholarship Program
§ 18–1701LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)
“Eligible student” means a junior, senior, or graduate student who attends an institution of higher education in the State.
(c)
“Internship” means a paid or an unpaid internship in the State with:
(1)
An organization, an institution, an association, a society, or a corporation that:
(i)
Is exempt from taxation under § 501(c)(3) or (4) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986; and
(ii)
Affords the student the opportunity to participate in and support management functions, including board governance, executive leadership, financial management, human resources, fundraising, or facilities management; or
(2)
The State or any local government in the State.
(d)
“Program” means the Walter Sondheim Jr. Public Service Internship Scholarship Program.
(e)
“Shriver Center” means the Shriver Center located at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1702 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 17. Walter Sondheim Jr. Public Service Internship Scholarship Program
§ 18–1702LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
There is a scholarship program known as the Walter Sondheim Jr. Public Service Internship Scholarship Program in the State.
(2)
The Program consists of at least the following public service intern fellowships:
(i)
The Governor’s Summer Internship Program;
(ii)
The Sondheim Maryland Nonprofit Leadership Internship Program; and
(iii)
The Sondheim Public Service Law Fellows Program.
(b)
The purpose of the Program is to assist college and graduate students to explore public service career opportunities through internships.
(c)
The Shriver Center shall administer the Program.
(d)
An institution of higher education in the State may nominate eligible students to participate in the Program on or before:
(1)
January 1 of each year for summer and fall internships; and
(2)
October 1 of each year for spring internships.
(e)
Priority for participation in the Program shall be given to an eligible student who:
(1)
Is a resident of the State;
(2)
Has demonstrated an interest in a career in public service; and
(3)
Assists in providing:
(i)
Legal services:
(1)
To low–income residents in the State who cannot afford legal services; or
(2)
In a public service position;
(ii)
Social work services to low–income residents in the State;
(iii)
Nursing services in nursing shortage areas in the State as defined in § 18–802 of this title; or
(iv)
Other services in the public or nonprofit sectors in which there is a shortage of qualified practitioners to low–income or underserved residents or areas of the State.
(f)
(1)
Subject to paragraph (2) of this subsection, for eligible students who have agreed to serve in a public service internship, the Shriver Center shall award scholarships on or before:
(i)
January 15 of each year for spring internships;
(ii)
May 1 of each year for summer internships; and
(iii)
August 1 of each year for fall internships.
(2)
Funds for the scholarships awarded under this subtitle shall be as provided in the State budget.
(g)
Subject to the availability of funds, the scholarship award under the Program shall be at least $2,000 and no more than $6,000.
(h)
The Shriver Center shall serve as a clearinghouse for public and nonprofit entities that wish to hire public service interns participating in the Program.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1703 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 17. Walter Sondheim Jr. Public Service Internship Scholarship Program
§ 18–1703LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Shriver Center shall adopt policies to establish:
(1)
The criteria for eligibility in the Program;
(2)
A procedure and schedule for the payment of the scholarship award provided to an eligible student; and
(3)
A procedure for the repayment of the scholarship award if a student does not fulfill the internship requirements under the Program.
(b)
The Shriver Center shall adopt any other policies necessary to implement this subtitle.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1704 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 17. Walter Sondheim Jr. Public Service Internship Scholarship Program
§ 18–1704LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
Funds for the Program shall be provided on an annual basis in the State budget in accordance with this subsection.
(2)
Beginning in fiscal year 2028, the Governor shall include in the annual budget bill an appropriation for the Program that is at least 125% of the appropriation provided in fiscal year 2026.
(3)
The appropriation shall include funding for the University of Maryland, Baltimore County that is at least 125% of the funding provided in fiscal year 2026 for:
(i)
The Governor’s Summer Internship Program;
(ii)
The Sondheim Maryland Nonprofit Leadership Internship Program; and
(iii)
The Sondheim Public Service Law Fellows Program.
(b)
The Governor may provide funding in the State budget to the Shriver Center to administer the Program.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1705 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 17. Walter Sondheim Jr. Public Service Internship Scholarship Program
§ 18–1705LinkCopy Citation
Subject to § 2–1257 of the State Government Article, the Shriver Center shall report to the General Assembly by January 1 of each year on the implementation of the Program.
Subtitle 18. Apprenticeship Incentive Program
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1801 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 18. Apprenticeship Incentive Program
§ 18–1801LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)
“Grant” means an apprenticeship incentive grant that is awarded to an apprenticeship sponsor under this subtitle.
(c)
“Grant recipient” means a person or entity that receives a grant under this subtitle.
(d)
“Program” means the Apprenticeship Incentive Program.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1802 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 18. Apprenticeship Incentive Program
§ 18–1802LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Maryland Department of Labor in collaboration with the State Superintendent of Schools and the Secretary of Higher Education may establish a program of school–to–work transition grants, to be known as the “Youth Apprenticeship Program”.
(b)
Funds for the program shall be as provided by the Governor in the annual budget.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1803 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 18. Apprenticeship Incentive Program
§ 18–1803LinkCopy Citation
(a)
A grant may be awarded under this subtitle to:
(1)
An employer or consortium of employers;
(2)
An industrial trade association;
(3)
A trade union;
(4)
A registered apprenticeship sponsor; or
(5)
A combination of the entities specified in items (1) through (4) of this subsection.
(b)
A grant recipient shall use the grant in an apprenticeship training program that is:
(1)
A registered apprenticeship program approved by the Apprenticeship and Training Council within the Maryland Department of Labor;
(2)
A youth apprenticeship program approved by the State Superintendent of Schools that involves students attending the public schools of the State; or
(3)
A youth apprenticeship program approved by the Secretary of Juvenile Services that involves clients of the Department of Juvenile Services.
(c)
The Secretary of Labor may ensure that the youth apprenticeship programs approved under this subtitle:
(1)
Foster the expansion of structured, school–to–work transition programs that link secondary school applied learning experiences with:
(i)
Skilled, high wage, workplace jobs and professions; and
(ii)
Postsecondary technical and occupational work experiences;
(2)
Foster enrollment in apprenticeship programs that target youth, including general education degree recipients;
(3)
Foster enrollment of inexperienced, unskilled, first time hires in long–term programs leading to a credential in emerging, technology based occupations that are projected as high growth areas in the State economy; and
(4)
Support the development of competency based instructional programs that encompass secondary and postsecondary institutions and are based on specific skill standards that are identified by the industry through accepted models.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1804 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 18. Apprenticeship Incentive Program
§ 18–1804LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Maryland Department of Labor, after consultation with the Advisory Board and interested potential grant recipients, may establish guidelines for the review and evaluation of grant proposals and the selection of grant recipients.
(b)
(1)
During the month of January each year, the Maryland Department of Labor may issue a request for proposals inviting interested persons to submit grant proposals for participation in the program for the fiscal year that begins on July 1 of that year.
(2)
Grant proposals may be received and reviewed by the Department only during the period between the date of the issuance of the request for proposals under paragraph (1) of this subsection and May 31 of that year.
(c)
(1)
The Maryland Department of Labor may evaluate grant proposals on a competitive basis and shall approve only proposals that it determines are of high quality and likely to fulfill the goals and objectives of the program.
(2)
Following a review of all grant proposals received during the period specified under subsection (b) of this section, the Secretary of Labor may announce the grant recipients for the fiscal year that begins on July 1 of that year.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1805 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 18. Apprenticeship Incentive Program
§ 18–1805LinkCopy Citation
If a Youth Apprenticeship Program is established under the authority granted under this subtitle, the Secretary of Labor may:
(1)
Determine the amount that is needed to fund the grants awarded under this subtitle; and
(2)
Submit this information to the Department of Budget and Management for inclusion in the annual budget.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1806 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 18. Apprenticeship Incentive Program
§ 18–1806LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Maryland Department of Labor may require that each grant recipient have a matching requirement for the amount of the grant that is awarded to the recipient under this subtitle.
(b)
The grant recipient may include in the amount that is calculated as its match under subsection (a) of this section the costs of personnel, equipment, and materials it incurs in the training program for the students it enrolls.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1807 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 18. Apprenticeship Incentive Program
§ 18–1807LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The grant recipient may use the grant for:
(1)
The development of competency based instructional programs that incorporate industry skills and that are based on generally accepted models within the industry;
(2)
The development of performance assessment systems that are tied to industry standards that demonstrate mastery of skills with a formal credential;
(3)
The coordination of work site and on–the–job training; and
(4)
To the extent not provided by the educational institution attended by the student or by any other entity, the costs of tuition, books, fees, and materials used in the training program.
(b)
Funds for the costs of the administration of the program shall be as provided by the Governor in the annual budget.
(c)
The grant recipient shall:
(1)
Submit periodic reports to the Secretary of Labor summarizing its activities under the program;
(2)
Meet and consult with the Secretary about the program; and
(3)
Make available to the Secretary for inspection, the recipient’s books, accounts, and other records associated with the program at such times as are mutually agreed upon by the parties.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1808 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 18. Apprenticeship Incentive Program
§ 18–1808LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Maryland Department of Labor may establish a Youth Apprenticeship Program Advisory Board.
(b)
The Advisory Board shall include:
(1)
The Secretary of Labor;
(2)
The State Superintendent of Schools;
(3)
The Secretary of Higher Education;
(4)
The chair of the Maryland Business Roundtable, or the chair’s designee;
(5)
The President of the Maryland AFL–CIO, or the President’s designee;
(6)
The chair of the Maryland Apprenticeship and Training Council, or the chair’s designee;
(7)
The chair of the Partnership for Workforce Quality Advisory Board, or the chair’s designee;
(8)
The chair of the Vocational Education Advisory Council, or the chair’s designee;
(9)
The chair of the Governor’s Workforce Development Board, or the chair’s designee;
(10)
The chair of the Maryland Association of Community Colleges, or the chair’s designee;
(11)
One member of the Senate of Maryland, appointed by the President of the Senate; and
(12)
One member of the House of Delegates, appointed by the Speaker of the House.
(c)
The Advisory Board shall, from time to time, review the program and advise the Secretary of Labor, the State Superintendent of Schools, and the Secretary of Higher Education about matters regarding the program.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1809 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 18. Apprenticeship Incentive Program
§ 18–1809LinkCopy Citation
The Secretary of Labor, in collaboration with the State Superintendent of Schools and the Secretary of Higher Education, may adopt regulations to implement the provisions of this subtitle.
Subtitle 19. Maryland 529 Program
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1901 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19. Maryland 529 Program
§ 18–1901LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)
“ABLE account holder” means an individual who has established an account described under § 529A(e) of the Internal Revenue Code and is the designated beneficiary of the account.
(c)
“Account holder” means an individual who:
(1)
Makes or undertakes the obligation to make advance payments of qualified higher education expenses as provided under a prepaid contract; and
(2)
Except as provided in § 18–1909(b) of this subtitle, is a resident of Maryland or of the District of Columbia at the time that the account holder enters into a prepaid contract.
(d)
“Broker–Dealer Plan” means the Maryland Broker–Dealer College Investment Plan established under Subtitle 19B of this title.
(e)
“Current prepaid contract obligations” means the scheduled payments due for the next fiscal year under existing prepaid contracts.
(f)
“Eligible institution of higher education” means an institution of higher education that:
(1)
Offers an associate, bachelor, or graduate degree program; and
(2)
Is eligible to participate in federal financial aid programs.
(g)
“Market value of program assets” means the amount of cash and cash equivalents held by the Trust plus the fair market value of other assets of the Trust.
(h)
“Maryland ABLE Program” means the Maryland Achieving a Better Life Experience Program established under Subtitle 19C of this title.
(i)
“Plan” means the Maryland Senator Edward J. Kasemeyer College Investment Plan established under Subtitle 19A of this title.
(j)
“Prepaid contract” means a contract between the State Treasurer and an account holder under the provisions of this subtitle for the advance payment of qualified higher education expenses by the account holder for a qualified beneficiary to attend an eligible institution of higher education, if the qualified beneficiary is admitted to the institution.
(k)
“Program” means Maryland 529.
(l)
“Qualified beneficiary” means an individual who:
(1)
Is eligible to apply advance payments of qualified higher education expenses to undergraduate or graduate qualified higher education expenses at an eligible institution of higher education under the provisions of this subtitle; and
(2)
Except as provided in § 18–1909(b) of this subtitle, is a resident of the State or of the District of Columbia at the time that the account holder enters into a prepaid contract.
(m)
“Qualified higher education expenses” has the meaning stated in § 529 of the Internal Revenue Code.
(n)
“Qualified state tuition program” has the meaning stated in § 529 of the Internal Revenue Code.
(o)
“Trust” means the Maryland Senator Edward J. Kasemeyer Prepaid College Trust established under this subtitle.
(p)
(1)
“Tuition” means the actual tuition and mandatory fees assessed to all students by an eligible institution of higher education as a condition of enrollment at the institution.
(2)
“Tuition” does not include any fee that is assessed by the institution for a particular course taken, year of enrollment, academic status, course of study, residency status, or any other distinguishing factor used by the institution to determine a specific fee.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1902 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19. Maryland 529 Program
§ 18–1902LinkCopy Citation
It is the intent of the General Assembly to enhance the accessibility and affordability of higher education for all citizens of the State and for all citizens of the District of Columbia by establishing a method to provide for the prepayment of tuition at eligible institutions of higher education.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1902.1 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19. Maryland 529 Program
§ 18–1902.1LinkCopy Citation
(a)
There is a Program entitled Maryland 529.
(b)
The purpose of the Program is to provide for the administration by the State Treasurer of the Maryland Senator Edward J. Kasemeyer Prepaid College Trust, the Maryland Senator Edward J. Kasemeyer College Investment Plan, the Maryland Broker–Dealer College Investment Plan, and the Maryland ABLE Program.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1903 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19. Maryland 529 Program
§ 18–1903LinkCopy Citation
(a)
There is a Maryland Senator Edward J. Kasemeyer Prepaid College Trust.
(b)
The purpose of the Trust is to provide:
(1)
A means for payment of the cost of tuition in advance of enrollment at an eligible institution of higher education; and
(2)
An assurance to a beneficiary who enrolls at an eligible institution of higher education that the State Treasurer shall make every effort to invest the advance payments so that the prepaid contract will cover the average in–State tuition costs at public institutions of higher education in the State at the time that the benefits are exercised.
(c)
The State Treasurer shall administer the Trust in compliance with Internal Revenue Service standards for qualified state tuition programs.
(d)
The funds of the Trust consist of:
(1)
Payments received from prepaid contracts made under the provisions of this subtitle;
(2)
Bequests, endowments, or funds from any other available private source;
(3)
Interest and income earned from the investments of the Trust; and
(4)
Federal, State, or local funds, or funds from any other available public source.
(e)
Money remaining in the Trust at the end of the fiscal year shall remain in the Trust and may not revert to the General Fund of the State.
(f)
Money of the Trust may not be considered money of the State and may not be deposited into the Treasury.
(g)
Money of the Trust may not be considered money of the Maryland Senator Edward J. Kasemeyer College Investment Plan and may not be commingled with the Plan.
(h)
Money of the Trust may not be considered money of or be commingled with the Maryland Broker–Dealer College Investment Plan.
(i)
Money of the Trust may not be considered money of or be commingled with the Maryland ABLE Program.
(j)
(1)
The debts, contracts, and obligations of the Trust are not the contracts, debts, or obligations of the State and neither the faith and credit nor taxing power of the State is pledged directly or indirectly or contingently, morally or otherwise, to the payment of the debts, contracts, and obligations.
(2)
The State Treasurer cannot directly or indirectly or contingently obligate, morally or otherwise, the State to levy or pledge any form of taxation whatsoever for the debts and obligations of the Trust or to make any appropriation for the payment of the debts and obligations of the Trust.
(k)
Neither the State nor any eligible institution of higher education shall be liable for any losses or shortage of funds in the event that the Maryland Senator Edward J. Kasemeyer Prepaid College Trust is insufficient to meet the tuition requirements of an institution attended by the qualified beneficiary.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1904 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19. Maryland 529 Program
§ 18–1904LinkCopy Citation
The State Treasurer shall administer:
(1)
The Maryland Senator Edward J. Kasemeyer Prepaid College Trust established under this subtitle;
(2)
The Maryland Senator Edward J. Kasemeyer College Investment Plan established under Subtitle 19A of this title;
(3)
The Maryland Broker–Dealer College Investment Plan established under Subtitle 19B of this title; and
(4)
The Maryland ABLE Program established under Subtitle 19C of this title.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1905 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19. Maryland 529 Program
§ 18–1905LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
The State Treasurer:
(i)
Shall appoint a deputy treasurer to administer the Program; and
(ii)
May employ additional Program staff in accordance with the budget.
(2)
(i)
Except for employees described in subparagraph (ii) or (iii) of this paragraph, the employees shall be skilled service employees subject to the provisions of the State Personnel and Pensions Article that govern skilled service employees.
(ii)
An employee is in the professional service and subject to the provisions of the State Personnel and Pensions Article that govern professional service employees if the position:
(1)
Requires knowledge of an advanced type in a field of science or learning customarily acquired by a course of specialized intellectual instruction and study; and
(2)
Normally requires a professional license, an advanced degree, or both.
(iii)
An employee is in the management service and subject to the provisions of the State Personnel and Pensions Article that govern management service employees if the position:
(1)
Primarily involves direct responsibility for the oversight and management of personnel and financial resources;
(2)
Requires the exercise of discretion and independent judgment; and
(3)
Is not in the executive service.
(3)
The State Treasurer may retain the services of consultants, administrators, and other personnel, as necessary, to administer the Trust, the Plan, the Broker–Dealer Plan, or the Maryland ABLE Program.
(4)
The budget for the Program and staff retained by the State Treasurer to administer the Program are subject to review by the General Assembly for information purposes only.
(b)
The State Treasurer may adopt any regulations that the State Treasurer considers necessary to carry out the provisions of this subtitle or Subtitle 19A, Subtitle 19B, or Subtitle 19C of this title.
(c)
In administering the Program, the State Treasurer may:
(1)
Execute contracts and other necessary instruments;
(2)
Hold, buy, and sell instruments, obligations, securities, and other investments consistent with its comprehensive investment plan;
(3)
Enter into agreements with eligible institutions of higher education and other public or private entities for the promotion, administration, or marketing of the Program, the Trust, the Plan, the Broker–Dealer Plan, or the Maryland ABLE Program;
(4)
Invest funds not required for immediate disbursement;
(5)
Solicit and accept gifts, grants, loans, or other aid from any source or participate in any government program for purposes consistent with this subtitle and Subtitles 19A, 19B, and 19C of this title;
(6)
Subject to the review of the General Assembly, impose, collect, and distribute across Maryland 529 programs reasonable administrative fees for any transactions under the Trust, the Plan, the Broker–Dealer Plan, or the Maryland ABLE Program or involving prepaid contracts or transactions affecting the Program, the Trust, the Plan, the Broker–Dealer Plan, or the Maryland ABLE Program;
(7)
Procure insurance against any loss of assets of the Program, the Trust, the Plan, the Broker–Dealer Plan, or the Maryland ABLE Program;
(8)
Endorse insurance coverage written exclusively for the purpose of protecting:
(i)
A prepaid contract under the Trust and the account holder and the qualified beneficiary of the contract;
(ii)
An investment account under the Plan, or the Broker–Dealer Plan, and the account holder and qualified designated beneficiary of the investment account; or
(iii)
An ABLE account under the Maryland ABLE Program and the ABLE account holder;
(9)
Designate terms under which money may be withdrawn from the Program, the Trust, the Plan, the Broker–Dealer Plan, or the Maryland ABLE Program;
(10)
Establish additional procedural and substantive requirements for participation in and the administration or marketing of the Program, the Trust, the Plan, the Broker–Dealer Plan, or the Maryland ABLE Program;
(11)
Appear before boards, commissions, or other governmental agencies; and
(12)
Take any other action that the State Treasurer considers appropriate to implement and administer the Program, the Trust, the Plan, the Broker–Dealer Plan, or the Maryland ABLE Program.
(d)
The State Treasurer may:
(1)
Delegate, wholly or partly, the exercise of fiduciary duties related to the Trust; and
(2)
Contract for support services necessary to carry out the State Treasurer’s fiduciary duties related to the Trust.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1905.1 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19. Maryland 529 Program
§ 18–1905.1LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
The State Treasurer shall implement a marketing plan to increase participation in Maryland 529.
(2)
(i)
The marketing plan shall identify methods to increase general participation in Maryland 529.
(ii)
The State Treasurer shall coordinate with the Board of Trustees of the Maryland State Employees Supplemental Retirement Plans and local school systems, respectively, to identify methods to increase participation in Maryland 529 among:
(1)
State employees that participate in other State tax savings programs; and
(2)
Families of students in local school systems with lower rates of participation in Maryland 529 than the State population.
(b)
On or before December 1, 2025, and every 3 years thereafter, the State Treasurer shall submit the marketing plan required under subsection (a) of this section to the Governor and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of the State Government Article, the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee, the Senate Committee on Education, Energy, and the Environment, the House Committee on Ways and Means, and the House Appropriations Committee.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1906 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19. Maryland 529 Program
§ 18–1906LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The State Treasurer shall adopt a comprehensive investment plan for the administration of the Trust.
(b)
The plan shall specify the investment policies used by the State Treasurer in the administration of the Trust.
(c)
Assets of the Trust shall be invested in accordance with the comprehensive investment plan.
(d)
The comprehensive investment plan must indicate the percentage of assets that shall be held in each class of investment, the amount of funds held in any cash pool, the amount of funds held in fixed assets investments, the amount of funds held in equity investments, and the percentage and dollar value of assets placed with outside managers.
(e)
(1)
Notwithstanding any law restricting the deposit or investment of State money, the State Treasurer may place assets of the Trust in savings accounts or may use the assets to purchase fixed or variable life insurance or annuity contracts, securities, evidence of indebtedness, or other investment products pursuant to the comprehensive investment plan.
(2)
Any insurance, annuity contracts, savings, or other investment products procured by the State Treasurer shall be underwritten and offered in compliance with applicable federal and State laws.
(f)
The State Treasurer shall make every effort to invest the assets of the Trust in a manner that earns, at a minimum, sufficient earnings to generate the difference between the prepaid amount under prepaid contracts and the average in–State tuition costs at public institutions of higher education in the State at the time that the benefits are exercised.
(g)
The comprehensive investment plan shall provide for the Trust to be administered in an actuarially sound manner to assure that the State Treasurer may defray obligations of the Trust.
(h)
The State Treasurer shall review the comprehensive investment plan at least annually to assure that the Trust remains actuarially sound.
(i)
The State Treasurer may contract with an investment advisory or management company for the investment and management of the Trust as long as the Trust is administered in accordance with the comprehensive investment plan.
(j)
The State Treasurer:
(1)
Shall preserve, invest, and expend the assets of the Trust solely for the purposes of this subtitle; and
(2)
May not loan, transfer, or use the assets for any other purpose of the State.
(k)
The Trust is not subject to § 7–302 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.
(l)
Unless the State Treasurer provides otherwise by regulation, the State Treasurer shall use the proceeds in the Trust in the following order:
(1)
To pay eligible institutions of higher education in accordance with the State Treasurer’s obligations under prepaid contracts;
(2)
To refund money on the termination of prepaid contracts;
(3)
To pay the operating expenses of the State Treasurer in administering the Program; and
(4)
To make payments to resolve claims brought against the Trust in accordance with § 18–1917 of this subtitle.
(m)
(1)
Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, if the State Treasurer determines after an annual review that the market value of Trust assets exceeds the amount necessary to satisfy all scheduled payments currently due or scheduled to become due under all prepaid contracts by 30% or more, the State Treasurer may provide for a rebate from the excess to account holders of existing prepaid contracts in an amount to be determined by the State Treasurer.
(2)
The State Treasurer may not rebate any amount to account holders if, within the 5 years immediately preceding the proposed rebate:
(i)
The State Treasurer has requested an appropriation under § 18–1906.1 of this subtitle; or
(ii)
The Trust has failed to repay to the State any appropriation under § 18–1906.1 of this subtitle.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1906.1 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19. Maryland 529 Program
§ 18–1906.1LinkCopy Citation
(a)
If the current prepaid contract obligations of the Trust exceed the market value of Trust assets, at the request of the State Treasurer, the Governor shall include in the annual budget bill submitted to the General Assembly an appropriation in the amount determined under subsection (b) of this section.
(b)
The appropriation to be included in the budget bill under subsection (a) of this section shall equal the difference between the current prepaid contract obligations and the market value of Trust assets.
(c)
For purposes of this section, the current prepaid contract obligations and the market value of Trust assets:
(1)
Shall be determined as of June 30 of the calendar year that ended before the beginning of the fiscal year for which the appropriation is requested; and
(2)
Shall be verified by the report of the independent outside auditor required under § 18–1916 of this subtitle.
(d)
(1)
The amount appropriated under this section shall be deposited into the Trust.
(2)
All amounts paid into the Trust under this section shall constitute and be accounted for as advances to the Trust.
(3)
Subject to the rights of the Trust’s contract holders, amounts appropriated under this section shall be repaid to the State without interest in equal amounts in each of the next 2 fiscal years succeeding the one for which the appropriation was made.
(4)
If the appropriation in the State budget as enacted by the General Assembly is less than the amount specified under subsection (b) of this section, the State Treasurer may adjust the terms of subsequent or current prepaid contracts to ensure continued actuarial soundness of the Trust.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1907 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19. Maryland 529 Program
§ 18–1907LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this section, “fiduciary” means:
(1)
The State Treasurer;
(2)
An employee of the Program or the Trust who exercises any discretionary authority or control over:
(i)
The management or administration of the Trust; or
(ii)
The management or disposition of the assets of the Trust; or
(3)
An individual to whom the State Treasurer has delegated fiduciary duties in accordance with § 18–1905 of this subtitle.
(b)
A fiduciary shall discharge the fiduciary’s duties with respect to the Trust:
(1)
Solely in the interest of the participants;
(2)
For the exclusive purposes of providing benefits to the participants and providing reasonable expenses of administering the Trust;
(3)
With the care, skill, prudence, and diligence under the circumstances then prevailing, that a prudent person acting in a like capacity and familiar with such matters would use in the conduct of an enterprise of a like character with like aims;
(4)
By diversifying the investments of the Trust so as to minimize the risk of large losses, unless under the circumstances it is clearly prudent not to do so;
(5)
In accordance with the laws governing the Trust; and
(6)
In accordance with the documents and instruments governing the Trust to the extent that the documents and instruments are consistent with this subtitle.
(c)
In exercising authority, control, or discretion with respect to the Trust, a fiduciary may not:
(1)
Use the assets of the Trust for the fiduciary’s own interest or account;
(2)
Act in a transaction involving the Trust on behalf of a person, or represent a person, if the interests of the person are adverse to the interests of the Trust or the interests of participants;
(3)
Receive any consideration for the fiduciary’s own account from a person dealing with the Trust in connection with a transaction involving the assets of the Trust; or
(4)
Become an endorser or surety or, in any manner, an obligor, for money lent to or borrowed from the State Treasurer.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1908 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19. Maryland 529 Program
§ 18–1908LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Each fiduciary shall be covered by a surety bond or an insurance policy of the type and in the amount of coverage determined by the State Treasurer under § 5–108 of the State Government Article, as a fiduciary of the Trust.
(b)
Unless a fiduciary is bonded, the fiduciary may not exercise custody or control of any assets of the Trust.
(c)
A fiduciary may not allow another fiduciary to act in violation of this section.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1909 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19. Maryland 529 Program
§ 18–1909LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
On or after June 1, 2023, the State Treasurer may not establish any new prepaid contracts or extend or upgrade any existing prepaid contracts under the Trust.
(2)
On or after June 1, 2023, an account holder may not enter into any new prepaid contracts or extend or upgrade any existing prepaid contracts under the Trust.
(b)
(1)
For the purpose of entering into a prepaid contract, either the account holder or the qualified beneficiary must be a resident of Maryland or of the District of Columbia at the time that the account holder enters into the prepaid contract.
(2)
For the purposes of determining residency for the purchase of a prepaid contract:
(i)
For residency in Maryland, “resident” has the meaning stated in § 10–101 of the Tax – General Article; and
(ii)
For residency in the District of Columbia, “resident” has the meaning stated in § 47–1801.04 of the District of Columbia Code Annotated.
(c)
The cost of a prepaid contract shall be based on:
(1)
The average current in–State tuition costs at the time the prepaid contract is purchased at public institutions of higher education in the State;
(2)
The number of years expected to elapse between the purchase of a prepaid contract and the use of the benefits of the prepaid contract; and
(3)
The projected tuition costs at the time that the benefits will be exercised.
(d)
Each prepaid contract made under the provisions of this subtitle shall include the following provisions:
(1)
The amount of each payment and the number of payments required from an account holder;
(2)
The terms and conditions under which account holders shall remit payments, including the dates of the payments;
(3)
Provisions for late payment charges and defaults;
(4)
Penalties for early withdrawal from the Trust;
(5)
The amount and terms of any administrative fees that must be paid by the account holder or the beneficiary;
(6)
The name and date of birth of the qualified beneficiary on whose behalf the contract is made;
(7)
Terms and conditions for a substitution for the qualified beneficiary originally named;
(8)
Terms and conditions for the termination of the prepaid contract;
(9)
The time period during which the qualified beneficiary may claim benefits from the Trust;
(10)
The maximum number of undergraduate semester hours that are prepaid under the prepaid contract, based on in–State tuition at a public institution of higher education in the State;
(11)
All other rights and obligations of the account holder and the Trust; and
(12)
Any other terms and conditions that the State Treasurer considers necessary or appropriate.
(e)
Subject to subsection (a) of this section, the State Treasurer shall allow the conversion of a prepaid contract from one tuition plan or payment option to a different tuition plan or payment option.
(f)
The State Treasurer shall allow excess prepaid contract benefits due to receipt of a scholarship, tuition remission, or early graduation from college to be used toward the payment of other qualified higher education expenses, as specified by the State Treasurer, at an eligible institution of higher education.
(g)
(1)
On or after June 1, 2023, the State Treasurer may only allow the transfer of funds from any other qualified state tuition program to the Trust, in accordance with federal law, for the purpose of contributing funds towards an existing contractual obligation.
(2)
The State Treasurer shall allow the transfer of funds from the Trust to any other qualified state tuition program, in accordance with federal law.
(h)
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the State Treasurer shall allow the transfer of funds from the Trust to any qualified ABLE program established in accordance with § 529A of the Internal Revenue Code.
(i)
The State Treasurer shall set procedures to ensure that contributions to the Trust plus contributions or payments to other qualified state tuition programs do not exceed a total maximum amount determined by § 529 of the Internal Revenue Code for contributions to multiple qualified state tuition programs.
(j)
The Maryland prepaid contract plan shall be referred to as the Senator Edward J. Kasemeyer prepaid contract plan.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1910 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19. Maryland 529 Program
§ 18–1910LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
The State Treasurer shall issue refunds as specified in this section.
(2)
Unless authorized by the State Treasurer or under subsection (b) of this section, a refund may not exceed the amount paid into the Trust by the account holder.
(b)
A refund equal to the same benefits as provided by the prepaid contract, minus any amount paid out of the funds of the Trust on behalf of the qualified beneficiary and for reasonable administrative charges, shall be made if the beneficiary:
(1)
Is awarded a scholarship or tuition remission that covers benefits provided under the prepaid contract; or
(2)
Dies or suffers from a disability which prevents the beneficiary from attending an institution of higher education within the time allowed by this subtitle.
(c)
(1)
A reduced refund of the contributions made to the Trust, as determined by the State Treasurer, shall be made if:
(i)
The beneficiary does not attend an institution of higher education;
(ii)
Benefits are not exercised under the contract within a time specified in the contract; or
(iii)
The prepaid contract is canceled by the account holder.
(2)
The time that a qualified beneficiary spends in active duty as a member of the uniformed services shall be added to the time period allowed to exercise the benefits under a prepaid contract before a termination under paragraph (1) of this subsection.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1911 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19. Maryland 529 Program
§ 18–1911LinkCopy Citation
The Program, Trust, and prepaid contracts issued under this subtitle are not subject to the provisions of the Insurance Article.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1912 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19. Maryland 529 Program
§ 18–1912LinkCopy Citation
The assets and income of the Trust are exempt from State and local taxation.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1913 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19. Maryland 529 Program
§ 18–1913LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this section, “person” does not include the State.
(b)
A person may not attach, execute, garnish, or otherwise seize any current or future benefit under a prepaid contract or any asset of the Trust.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1914 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19. Maryland 529 Program
§ 18–1914LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Nothing in this subtitle or in any prepaid contract may be construed as a promise or guarantee by the State Treasurer of admission to, continued enrollment at, or graduation from an institution of higher education.
(b)
The actual tuition rate charged to a qualified beneficiary shall be determined at the time of enrollment in accordance with the residency policy adopted by the governing board of the institution of higher education at which the qualified beneficiary enrolls.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1915 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19. Maryland 529 Program
§ 18–1915LinkCopy Citation
The State and its agencies or any local government in the State may agree, by contract or otherwise, to remit payments on behalf of an employee toward a prepaid contract through payroll deductions.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1916 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19. Maryland 529 Program
§ 18–1916LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
The Legislative Auditor shall audit the Trust as provided under Title 2, Subtitle 12 of the State Government Article.
(2)
The State Treasurer shall cause an audit of the Trust to be made by an outside independent auditor annually.
(3)
The State Treasurer shall pay for the audit required under paragraph (2) of this subsection.
(b)
(1)
Within 120 days after the close of each fiscal year, the State Treasurer shall submit to the Governor and, subject to § 2–1257 of the State Government Article, to the General Assembly a report including:
(i)
The audit of the outside independent auditor;
(ii)
A financial accounting of the Trust, including:
(1)
The annual review of the comprehensive investment plan which shall include:
(A)
The status of the investment program, including investment income matched to projected enrollment costs under the existing prepaid contracts;
(B)
The assets held in each class of investment, the amount of funds held in any cash pool, the amount of funds held in fixed assets investments, and the amount of funds held in equity investments;
(C)
The percentage and dollar value of assets placed with outside managers;
(D)
The income produced by each class of investment; and
(E)
The income produced by each investment manager; and
(2)
A detailed account of the operating and administrative budget for the Trust, which shall include a complete list of revenue sources and expenditures detailing the line item expenditures for:
(A)
Salaries, wages, and fringe benefits;
(B)
Technical and special fees;
(C)
Communication;
(D)
Travel;
(E)
Contractual services;
(F)
Supplies and materials;
(G)
Equipment;
(H)
Fixed charges; and
(I)
Other expenses;
(iii)
The number of prepaid contracts entered into during the previous fiscal year;
(iv)
Efforts by the State Treasurer in marketing the prepaid contracts under the Trust; and
(v)
Any recommendations of the State Treasurer concerning the operation of the Trust.
(2)
The State Treasurer shall make available to each account holder a copy of a summary of the report and the option to purchase the full report at a nominal charge.
(c)
The audit required by subsection (a)(2) of this section and the report required by subsection (b) of this section may be combined with any other audit or report for the same fiscal year required to be submitted by the State Treasurer to the Governor and the General Assembly.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-1917 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19. Maryland 529 Program
§ 18–1917LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
Except as provided in paragraphs (2) and (3) of this subsection and notwithstanding any other provision of law, an account holder or a qualified beneficiary may file a claim arising from the administration of the Trust with the State Treasurer, as fiduciary of the Trust.
(2)
A claim may be filed only by an account holder or a qualified beneficiary for an account that was open and existing on or after November 1, 2021, by:
(i)
An account holder; or
(ii)
A qualified beneficiary for a distribution that was made to the qualified beneficiary or to an eligible educational institution on the beneficiary’s behalf.
(3)
Any claim brought under this section shall be subject to the exclusions and limitations set forth in this subtitle.
(b)
A claim filed in accordance with subsection (a) of this section shall be filed:
(1)
For a claim relating to the updated terms included in the disclosure statement for the Trust that went into effect November 1, 2021:
(i)
Not sooner than the date of the notice to account holders required by subsection (j)(2)(i) of this section; and
(ii)
Not later than December 31, 2023; or
(2)
For all other claims, 1 year after the date the claim arises.
(c)
A claim under this section shall:
(1)
Contain a concise statement of facts that sets forth the nature of the claim;
(2)
State the name, address, telephone number, and e–mail address, if any, of the claimant;
(3)
State the Prepaid Trust account number to which the claim relates;
(4)
Contain any other information required to be set forth in a claim by any procedures or regulations adopted by the State Treasurer in accordance with subsection (j) of this section;
(5)
State the name, address, telephone number, and e–mail address of the legal representative or counsel for the claimant, if any; and
(6)
Be signed by the claimant, or the legal representative or counsel for the claimant.
(d)
(1)
Subject to paragraphs (2) and (3) of this subsection, the State Treasurer shall:
(i)
Investigate the claim;
(ii)
Approve or deny the claim in whole or in part; and
(iii)
Notify the claimant, or the legal representative or counsel for the claimant, if any, in writing of the final determination.
(2)
In the exercise of the State Treasurer’s fiduciary duties, the State Treasurer may:
(i)
Delegate, wholly or partly, this responsibility, provided that any delegate shall be a fiduciary with respect to making a final determination of a claim; and
(ii)
Contract for any support services that are needed to carry out this responsibility.
(3)
For claims relating to the updated terms included in the disclosure statement for the Trust that went into effect November 1, 2021, to the extent practicable, the State Treasurer shall prioritize the processing of claims of account holders who:
(i)
Have sought distributions for qualified higher education expenses before June 1, 2023; or
(ii)
Will be seeking distributions for qualified higher education expenses for the fall of calendar year 2023.
(e)
Each final determination made by the State Treasurer in accordance with this section shall be made:
(1)
Independently and in the State Treasurer’s role as fiduciary to the Trust; and
(2)
Solely considering the interests of all of the account holders and qualified beneficiaries under the Trust.
(f)
Acceptance of a settlement by a claimant:
(1)
With respect to a claim brought in accordance with subsection (b)(1) of this section, shall be conditioned on an agreement of the account holder to transfer all funds in the account to any other qualified state tuition program; and
(2)
Is, as to that claimant and any qualified beneficiary of the account to which the claim relates:
(i)
Final; and
(ii)
A complete release of each claim arising from the administration of the Trust against:
(1)
The State;
(2)
Each of its units;
(3)
All State personnel; and
(4)
The Trust.
(g)
The State Treasurer, as fiduciary of the Trust:
(1)
Makes the final determination with respect to claims submitted in accordance with this section; and
(2)
Is exempt from the provisions of Title 10, Subtitles 2 and 3 of the State Government Article.
(h)
Any claim by an account holder or a qualified beneficiary arising from the administration of the Trust shall be made solely against the assets of the Trust.
(i)
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, this section provides the exclusive remedy for a claim against the assets of the Trust.
(j)
(1)
The State Treasurer shall:
(i)
For claims brought in accordance with subsection (b)(1) of this section, establish procedures to implement the claim process established in this section for those claims; and
(ii)
For all other claims, adopt regulations for the claim process established in this section.
(2)
The State Treasurer shall provide notice to account holders within 10 business days of:
(i)
The establishment of the procedures described in this subsection; and
(ii)
The adoption of regulations in accordance with this subsection.
Subtitle 19A. Maryland Senator Edward J. Kasemeyer College Investment Plan
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-19A-01 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19A. Maryland Senator Edward J. Kasemeyer College Investment Plan
§ 18–19A-01LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)
“Account holder” means the person who established an investment account on behalf of a qualified designated beneficiary.
(c)
“Eligible educational institution” has the meaning stated in § 529(e) of the Internal Revenue Code.
(d)
“Investment account” means an account established by an account holder under this subtitle on behalf of a qualified designated beneficiary for the purpose of applying distributions toward qualified higher education expenses at eligible educational institutions.
(e)
“Plan” means the Maryland Senator Edward J. Kasemeyer College Investment Plan established under this subtitle.
(f)
“Qualified designated beneficiary” has the meaning stated in § 529 of the Internal Revenue Code.
(g)
“Qualified higher education expenses” has the meaning stated in § 529 of the Internal Revenue Code.
(h)
“Qualified state tuition program” has the meaning stated in § 529 of the Internal Revenue Code.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-19A-02 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19A. Maryland Senator Edward J. Kasemeyer College Investment Plan
§ 18–19A-02LinkCopy Citation
(a)
There is a Maryland Senator Edward J. Kasemeyer College Investment Plan.
(b)
The purpose of the Plan is to allow contributions to an investment account established for the purposes of meeting the qualified higher education expenses of the qualified designated beneficiary of the account.
(c)
(1)
The State Treasurer shall administer, manage, promote, and market the Plan.
(2)
The State Treasurer shall administer the Plan in compliance with Internal Revenue Service standards for qualified state tuition programs.
(d)
The State Treasurer shall adopt procedures that the State Treasurer considers necessary to carry out the provisions of this subtitle.
(e)
The State Treasurer shall adopt procedures relating to:
(1)
Application procedures for participation in the Plan;
(2)
Start–up costs incurred by the State for the development of the Plan with these costs to be reimbursed to the State by the Plan;
(3)
Early withdrawals, so that there will be no major detriment to the remaining account holders in the Plan;
(4)
The State contribution program;
(5)
Transfer of funds from the Plan to other qualified state tuition programs and from other qualified state tuition programs to the Plan in accordance with federal law; and
(6)
Transfer of funds from the Plan to a qualified ABLE program established in accordance with § 529A of the Internal Revenue Code.
(f)
At least annually, the State Treasurer shall issue to each account holder a statement that provides a separate accounting for each qualified designated beneficiary providing the following information with respect to each account:
(1)
The beginning balance;
(2)
Contributions to the account, including any State contribution;
(3)
Withdrawals from the account during the previous year; and
(4)
Ending investment account value.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-19A-03 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19A. Maryland Senator Edward J. Kasemeyer College Investment Plan
§ 18–19A-03LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
The State Treasurer may issue requests for proposals to evaluate and determine the means for the administration, management, promotion, or marketing of the Plan.
(2)
The State Treasurer shall consider proposals that meet the following criteria:
(i)
Ability to develop and administer an investment program of a nature similar to the objectives of the Plan;
(ii)
Ability to administer financial programs with individual account records and reporting;
(iii)
Ability to market the Plan to Maryland residents;
(iv)
Ability to market the Plan to nonresidents of Maryland; and
(v)
Ability to coordinate the Plan with other programs or informational services considered beneficial by the State Treasurer, including the Maryland Senator Edward J. Kasemeyer Prepaid College Trust established under Subtitle 19 of this title.
(b)
(1)
Except for applications made under § 18–19A–04.1 of this subtitle, the State Treasurer may require an initial application fee to be used for administrative costs of the Plan.
(2)
The State Treasurer may require additional fees associated with the expenses of the Plan.
(c)
(1)
Contributions to the Plan on behalf of a qualified designated beneficiary may not exceed the maximum amount determined by the State Treasurer to be in accordance with § 529 of the Internal Revenue Code.
(2)
Contributions to the Plan may be made only in cash or cash equivalent.
(3)
The Plan shall include provisions for automatic contributions.
(d)
The State Treasurer shall adopt procedures to ensure that contributions to the Plan plus contributions or payments to other qualified state tuition programs do not exceed a total maximum amount determined under § 529 of the Internal Revenue Code for contributions to multiple qualified state tuition programs.
(e)
(1)
The Plan:
(i)
Shall be established in the form determined by the State Treasurer; and
(ii)
May be established as a trust to be declared by the State Treasurer.
(2)
The Plan may be divided into multiple investment portfolios.
(3)
If the Plan is divided into multiple portfolios as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, the debts, liabilities, obligations, and expenses incurred, contracted for, or otherwise existing with respect to a particular portfolio shall be enforceable against the assets of that portfolio only and not against the assets of the Plan generally, if:
(i)
Distinct records are maintained for each portfolio; and
(ii)
The assets associated with each portfolio are accounted for separately from the other assets of the Plan.
(f)
The Maryland College Investment Plan shall be referred to as the Senator Edward J. Kasemeyer College Investment Plan.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-19A-04 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19A. Maryland Senator Edward J. Kasemeyer College Investment Plan
§ 18–19A-04LinkCopy Citation
(a)
A Maryland resident or a nonresident of Maryland may participate in and benefit from the Plan.
(b)
Distributions shall be requested by the account holder.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-19A-04.1 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19A. Maryland Senator Edward J. Kasemeyer College Investment Plan
§ 18–19A-04.1LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
Subject to paragraph (2) of this subsection, for investment accounts established after December 31, 2016, a State contribution may be made to not more than two investment accounts for each qualified beneficiary as provided in this section if:
(i)
The qualified beneficiary of the investment account and the account holder are Maryland residents;
(ii)
The account holder is at least 18 years old for applications filed on or after January 1, 2022;
(iii)
The account holder submits an application to the State Treasurer or the State Treasurer’s designee between January 1 and June 1 of each year;
(iv)
The account holder has Maryland adjusted gross income in the previous taxable year no greater than $112,500 for an individual or $175,000 for a married couple filing a joint return;
(v)
The account holder files income taxes on or before July 15 of each year; and
(vi)
The qualified beneficiary is under the age of 26 years in the calendar year before the account holder submits an application.
(2)
For State contribution application periods after December 31, 2020, a qualified beneficiary may not receive more than two State contributions for each year the qualified beneficiary is eligible for the State contribution under this section.
(b)
(1)
An application may be made in person, online, or by mail.
(2)
The State Treasurer shall develop:
(i)
An application form that:
(1)
Includes permission for confirming Maryland taxable income with the Comptroller; and
(2)
Allows for certification of Maryland residency;
(ii)
A procedure to certify the date and time of receipt of an application; and
(iii)
Any other necessary procedures for the submittal of applications.
(c)
(1)
For an account holder with Maryland adjusted gross income of less than $50,000 for an individual or $75,000 for a married couple filing a joint return who contributes at least $25 per beneficiary during the contribution period in subsection (e) of this section, the State shall provide an additional $500 per beneficiary.
(2)
For an account holder with Maryland adjusted gross income of at least $50,000 but less than $87,500 for an individual or at least $75,000 but less than $125,000 for a married couple filing a joint return who contributes at least $100 per beneficiary during the contribution period in subsection (e) of this section, the State shall provide an additional $500 per beneficiary.
(3)
For an account holder with Maryland adjusted gross income of at least $87,500 but no greater than $112,500 for an individual or at least $125,000 but no greater than $175,000 for a married couple filing a joint return who contributes at least $250 per beneficiary during the contribution period in subsection (e) of this section, the State shall provide an additional $250 per beneficiary.
(d)
(1)
The Governor shall include in the annual budget bill an appropriation of at least $3,000,000 in each fiscal year.
(2)
If the funding provided in a fiscal year is not sufficient to fully fund all State contributions authorized under this section, the State Treasurer shall:
(i)
Provide contributions in the order in which applications are received; and
(ii)
Give priority to applications of account holders who have not received a contribution.
(e)
(1)
An account holder shall contribute at least the amount specified under subsection (c) of this section on or before November 1 of each year in order to qualify for the State contribution.
(2)
A State contribution shall be made by December 31 of the calendar year in which the account holder made the contribution.
(f)
(1)
An account holder is not eligible for the subtraction modification under § 10–208 of the Tax – General Article for any taxable year in which the account holder receives a State contribution.
(2)
An account holder may qualify for not more than $9,000 in State contributions through the lifetime of the account holder.
(g)
(1)
The State Treasurer shall utilize an outreach and marketing plan to provide notification to individuals about the availability of a State contribution.
(2)
The outreach and marketing plan shall:
(i)
Make use of a variety of marketing media, including billboards, brochures, and electronic resources; and
(ii)
Provide a centralized contact point for individuals to obtain information about opening an account and the availability of a State contribution.
(h)
The State Treasurer may adopt any regulations that the State Treasurer considers necessary to carry out the provisions of this section.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-19A-05 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19A. Maryland Senator Edward J. Kasemeyer College Investment Plan
§ 18–19A-05LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
The debts, contracts, and obligations of the Plan are not the contracts, debts, or obligations of the State and neither the faith and credit nor taxing power of the State is pledged directly or indirectly or contingently, morally or otherwise, to the payment of the debts, contracts, and obligations.
(2)
The State Treasurer cannot directly or indirectly or contingently obligate, morally or otherwise, the State to levy or pledge any form of taxation whatsoever for the debts and obligations of the Plan or to make any appropriation for the payment of the debts and obligations of the Plan.
(b)
Neither the State nor any eligible educational institution shall be liable for any losses or shortage of funds in the event that the account holder’s investment account balance is insufficient to meet the tuition requirements of an institution attended by the qualified designated beneficiary.
(c)
Money of the Plan may not be considered money of the State or deposited in the State Treasury.
(d)
Money of the Plan may not be considered money of or commingled with the Maryland Senator Edward J. Kasemeyer Prepaid College Trust.
(e)
Money of the Plan may not be considered money of or commingled with the Maryland Broker–Dealer College Investment Plan.
(f)
Money of the Plan may not be considered money of or commingled with the Maryland ABLE Program.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-19A-05.1 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19A. Maryland Senator Edward J. Kasemeyer College Investment Plan
§ 18–19A-05.1LinkCopy Citation
The Maryland 529 Program, Plan, and investment accounts issued under this subtitle are not subject to the provisions of the Insurance Article.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-19A-06 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19A. Maryland Senator Edward J. Kasemeyer College Investment Plan
§ 18–19A-06LinkCopy Citation
The assets and income of the Maryland Senator Edward J. Kasemeyer College Investment Plan are exempt from State and local taxation.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-19A-06.1 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19A. Maryland Senator Edward J. Kasemeyer College Investment Plan
§ 18–19A-06.1LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this section, “person” does not include the State.
(b)
A person may not attach, execute, garnish, or otherwise seize any current or future benefit under an investment account or any asset of the Plan.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-19A-07 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19A. Maryland Senator Edward J. Kasemeyer College Investment Plan
§ 18–19A-07LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
The Legislative Auditor shall audit the Plan as provided under Title 2, Subtitle 12 of the State Government Article.
(2)
The State Treasurer shall obtain an annual audit report from service providers.
(b)
(1)
Within 120 days after the close of each fiscal year, the State Treasurer shall submit to the Governor and, subject to § 2–1257 of the State Government Article, to the General Assembly a report including:
(i)
A financial accounting of the Plan, including:
(1)
An annual review of the Plan which shall include:
(A)
The status of the investment program;
(B)
The assets held in each class of investment;
(C)
The percentage and dollar value of assets placed with outside managers;
(D)
The income produced by each class of investment;
(E)
The income produced by each investment manager;
(F)
The total deposits into the Plan for the past year; and
(G)
The total withdrawals from the Plan for the past year; and
(2)
A detailed account of the operating and administrative budget for the Plan, which shall include a complete list of revenue sources and expenditures detailing the line item expenditures for:
(A)
Salaries, wages, and fringe benefits;
(B)
Technical and special fees;
(C)
Communication;
(D)
Travel;
(E)
Contractual services;
(F)
Supplies and materials;
(G)
Equipment;
(H)
Fixed charges; and
(I)
Other expenses;
(ii)
The number of new account holders during the previous fiscal year;
(iii)
Efforts in marketing the Plan; and
(iv)
Any recommendations of the State Treasurer concerning the operation of the Plan.
(2)
The State Treasurer shall make available to each account holder a copy of a summary of the report and the option to purchase the full report at a nominal charge.
(c)
The audit required by subsection (a)(2) of this section and the report required by subsection (b) of this section, at the State Treasurer’s discretion, may be combined with any other audit or report for the same fiscal year required to be submitted by the State Treasurer to the Governor and the General Assembly.
Subtitle 19B. Maryland Broker-Dealer College Investment Plan
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-19B-01 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19B. Maryland Broker-Dealer College Investment Plan
§ 18–19B-01LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)
“Account holder” means the person who established an investment account on behalf of a qualified designated beneficiary.
(c)
“Broker–Dealer Plan” means the Maryland Broker–Dealer College Investment Plan established under this subtitle.
(d)
“Eligible educational institution” has the meaning stated in § 529(e) of the Internal Revenue Code.
(e)
“Investment account” means an account established by an account holder under this subtitle on behalf of a qualified designated beneficiary for the purpose of applying distributions toward qualified higher education expenses at eligible educational institutions.
(f)
“Qualified designated beneficiary” has the meaning stated in § 529(e) of the Internal Revenue Code.
(g)
“Qualified higher education expenses” has the meaning stated in § 529(e) of the Internal Revenue Code.
(h)
“Qualified state tuition program” has the meaning stated in § 529 of the Internal Revenue Code.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-19B-02 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19B. Maryland Broker-Dealer College Investment Plan
§ 18–19B-02LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The State Treasurer may establish a Maryland Broker–Dealer College Investment Plan.
(b)
The purpose of the Broker–Dealer Plan is to provide for a broker–dealer distributed vehicle that would allow contributions to an investment account established for the purposes of meeting the qualified higher education expenses of the qualified designated beneficiary of the account.
(c)
(1)
The State Treasurer shall administer, manage, and promote the Broker–Dealer Plan.
(2)
The State Treasurer shall administer the Broker–Dealer Plan in compliance with Internal Revenue Service standards for qualified state tuition programs.
(d)
(1)
The State Treasurer shall adopt procedures relating to:
(i)
Enrollment procedures for participation in the Broker–Dealer Plan;
(ii)
Start–up costs incurred by the State for the development of the Broker–Dealer Plan with these costs to be reimbursed to the State by the Broker–Dealer Plan;
(iii)
Early withdrawals so that there will be no major detriment to the remaining account holders in the Broker–Dealer Plan;
(iv)
Transfer of funds from the Broker–Dealer Plan to other qualified state tuition programs and from other qualified state tuition programs to the Broker–Dealer Plan in accordance with federal law; and
(v)
Transfer of funds from the Broker–Dealer Plan to a qualified ABLE program established in accordance with § 529A of the Internal Revenue Code.
(2)
The State Treasurer shall adopt any other procedures that the State Treasurer considers necessary to carry out the provisions of this subtitle.
(e)
At least annually, the State Treasurer shall issue to each account holder a statement that provides a separate accounting for each qualified designated beneficiary providing the following information with respect to each account:
(1)
The beginning balance;
(2)
Contributions to the account;
(3)
Withdrawals from the account during the previous year; and
(4)
Ending investment account value.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-19B-03 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19B. Maryland Broker-Dealer College Investment Plan
§ 18–19B-03LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
The State Treasurer may issue requests for proposals to evaluate and determine the means for the administration, management, promotion, or marketing of the Broker–Dealer Plan.
(2)
The State Treasurer shall consider proposals that meet the following criteria:
(i)
Ability to develop and administer an investment program of a nature similar to the objectives of the Broker–Dealer Plan;
(ii)
Ability to administer financial programs with individual account records and reporting; and
(iii)
Ability to market the Broker–Dealer Plan to Maryland residents and, at the State Treasurer’s discretion, nonresidents of Maryland.
(b)
(1)
The State Treasurer may require an initial enrollment fee to be used for administrative costs of the Broker–Dealer Plan.
(2)
The State Treasurer may require additional fees associated with the expenses of the Broker–Dealer Plan.
(c)
(1)
Contributions to the Broker–Dealer Plan on behalf of a qualified designated beneficiary may not exceed the maximum amount determined by the State Treasurer to be in accordance with § 529 of the Internal Revenue Code.
(2)
Contributions to the Broker–Dealer Plan may be made only in cash or cash equivalents.
(3)
The Broker–Dealer Plan shall include provisions for automatic contributions.
(d)
(1)
The Broker–Dealer Plan:
(i)
May be established as one or more separate plans as determined by the State Treasurer;
(ii)
If established by the State Treasurer, shall be established in the form determined by the State Treasurer;
(iii)
Shall be marketed and promoted under the name or names determined by the State Treasurer; and
(iv)
May be established as one or more trusts to be declared by the State Treasurer.
(2)
The Broker–Dealer Plan may be divided into multiple investment options.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-19B-04 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19B. Maryland Broker-Dealer College Investment Plan
§ 18–19B-04LinkCopy Citation
(a)
A Maryland resident or, at the State Treasurer’s discretion, a nonresident of Maryland may participate in and benefit from the Broker–Dealer Plan.
(b)
Distributions shall be requested by the account holder.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-19B-05 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19B. Maryland Broker-Dealer College Investment Plan
§ 18–19B-05LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
The debts, contracts, and obligations of the Broker–Dealer Plan are not the contracts, debts, or obligations of the State, and neither the faith and credit nor taxing power of the State is pledged directly or indirectly or contingently, morally or otherwise, to the payment of the debts, contracts, and obligations.
(2)
The State Treasurer cannot directly or indirectly or contingently obligate, morally or otherwise, the State to levy or pledge any form of taxation whatsoever for the debts and obligations of the Broker–Dealer Plan or to make any appropriation for the payment of the debts and obligations of the Broker–Dealer Plan.
(b)
Neither the State nor any eligible educational institution shall be liable for any losses or shortage of funds in the event that the account holder’s investment account balance is insufficient to meet the tuition requirements of an institution attended by the qualified designated beneficiary.
(c)
Money of the Broker–Dealer Plan may not be considered money of the State or deposited in the State Treasury.
(d)
Money of the Broker–Dealer Plan may not be considered money of or commingled with the Maryland Senator Edward J. Kasemeyer Prepaid College Trust.
(e)
Money of the Broker–Dealer Plan may not be considered money of or commingled with the Maryland Senator Edward J. Kasemeyer College Investment Plan.
(f)
Money of the Broker–Dealer Plan may not be considered money of or commingled with the Maryland ABLE Program.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-19B-06 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19B. Maryland Broker-Dealer College Investment Plan
§ 18–19B-06LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Maryland 529 Program, the Broker–Dealer Plan, and the investment accounts issued under this subtitle are not subject to the provisions of the Insurance Article.
(b)
The assets and income of the Maryland Broker–Dealer College Investment Plan are exempt from State and local taxation.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-19B-07 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19B. Maryland Broker-Dealer College Investment Plan
§ 18–19B-07LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this section, “person” does not include the State.
(b)
A person may not attach, execute, garnish, or otherwise seize any current or future benefit under an investment account or any asset of the Broker–Dealer Plan.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-19B-08 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19B. Maryland Broker-Dealer College Investment Plan
§ 18–19B-08LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Legislative Auditor shall audit the Broker–Dealer Plan as provided under Title 2, Subtitle 12 of the State Government Article.
(b)
The State Treasurer shall obtain an annual audit report from service provider(s) within six months of the end of such service provider’s reporting period.
Subtitle 19C. Maryland Able Program
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-19C-01 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19C. Maryland Able Program
§ 18–19C-01LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)
“ABLE account” means an account described under § 529A(e) of the Internal Revenue Code.
(c)
“ABLE account contributor” means an individual who contributes money to an ABLE account described under § 529A(e) of the Internal Revenue Code.
(d)
“ABLE account holder” means an individual who is the designated beneficiary of an account described under § 529A(e) of the Internal Revenue Code.
(e)
“Designated beneficiary” means an individual described in § 529A(e) of the Internal Revenue Code.
(f)
“Eligible individual” means an individual described in § 529A(e) of the Internal Revenue Code.
(g)
“Maryland ABLE Program” means a qualified ABLE program described in § 529A(b) of the Internal Revenue Code.
(h)
“Qualified disability expenses” means expenses described in § 529A(e) of the Internal Revenue Code.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-19C-02 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19C. Maryland Able Program
§ 18–19C-02LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
The State Treasurer shall establish a Maryland ABLE Program that shall be subject to the provisions of § 529A of the Internal Revenue Code.
(2)
It is the goal of the State that the Maryland ABLE Program be fully operational by October 1, 2017.
(b)
The purpose of the Maryland ABLE Program is to:
(1)
Encourage and assist individuals and families in saving private funds to support individuals with disabilities to maintain health, independence, and quality of life; and
(2)
Provide secure funding for disability–related expenses on behalf of designated beneficiaries with disabilities that will supplement, not supplant, benefits provided through private insurance, the Medicaid program under Title XIX of the Social Security Act, the Supplemental Security Income program under Title XVI of the Social Security Act, the beneficiary’s employment, and any other source.
(c)
(1)
The State Treasurer shall administer, manage, and promote the Maryland ABLE Program.
(2)
The State Treasurer shall administer the Maryland ABLE Program in compliance with Internal Revenue Service standards for qualified ABLE programs.
(3)
The State Treasurer shall work in consultation with the Department of Disabilities to administer, manage, and promote the Maryland ABLE Program.
(4)
The State Treasurer may collaborate and participate with other states or entities to administer, manage, and promote the Maryland ABLE Program, including participating with a consortium of states that are implementing ABLE programs in those states or as a consortium of states.
(d)
The State Treasurer shall adopt procedures relating to:
(1)
Enrollment for participation in the Maryland ABLE Program and any other procedures that the State Treasurer considers necessary to carry out the provisions of this subtitle; and
(2)
The establishment and operation of an ABLE account by a person other than a designated beneficiary as described in § 18–19C–04 of this subtitle.
(e)
At least annually, the State Treasurer shall issue to each ABLE account holder a statement that provides a separate accounting for each designated beneficiary providing the following information with respect to each account:
(1)
The beginning balance;
(2)
Contributions to the account;
(3)
Distributions from the account during the previous year; and
(4)
Ending ABLE account value.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-19C-03 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19C. Maryland Able Program
§ 18–19C-03LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
(i)
The State Treasurer may issue requests for proposals to evaluate and determine the means for the administration, management, promotion, or marketing of the Maryland ABLE Program.
(ii)
The State Treasurer shall consider proposals that meet the following criteria:
(1)
Ability to develop and administer an investment program of a nature similar to the objectives of the Maryland ABLE Program;
(2)
Ability to administer financial programs with individual account records and reporting; and
(3)
Ability to market the Maryland ABLE Program to eligible individuals.
(2)
(i)
(1)
Subject to subsubparagraph 2 of this subparagraph, the State Treasurer shall develop written informational materials about the Maryland ABLE Program.
(2)
The written materials developed under this subparagraph shall be in a form that enables the materials to be distributed electronically or by hand.
(ii)
The State Treasurer shall provide the materials developed under subparagraph (i) of this paragraph to the State Board and county boards for distribution to parents during individualized education program, individualized family service plan, and 504 plan meetings in accordance with §§ 8–405(b)(2) and 8–405.1 of this article.
(b)
(1)
The State Treasurer may require an initial enrollment fee to be used for administrative costs of the Maryland ABLE Program.
(2)
The State Treasurer may require additional reasonable fees associated with the expenses of the Maryland ABLE Program.
(c)
(1)
The Maryland ABLE Program is subject to the provisions of § 529A of the Internal Revenue Code.
(2)
The Maryland ABLE Program shall include provisions for automatic contributions.
(3)
Money and assets in the accounts established under the Maryland ABLE Program or an ABLE program in any other state may not be considered for the purpose of determining eligibility to receive, or the amount of, any assistance or benefits from local or State means–tested programs.
(4)
Money and assets contributed in each calendar year to the account of each ABLE account holder may not exceed the amount specified in § 529A(b)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code for each calendar year in which the taxable year begins.
(5)
Contributions to the account of each ABLE account holder may not exceed the maximum amount determined by the State Treasurer to be in accordance with § 529A(b)(6) of the Internal Revenue Code.
(d)
The Maryland ABLE Program may receive money from:
(1)
Appropriations in the State budget;
(2)
Reasonable fees assessed to beneficiaries;
(3)
Grants or other assistance from federal, State, or local government; and
(4)
Any other money from any public or private source.
(e)
(1)
The Maryland ABLE Program:
(i)
May be established as one or more separate plans as determined by the State Treasurer;
(ii)
Shall be established in the form determined by the State Treasurer;
(iii)
Shall be marketed and promoted under the name or names determined by the State Treasurer; and
(iv)
May be established as one or more trusts to be declared by the State Treasurer.
(2)
The Maryland ABLE Program may be divided into multiple investment options.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-19C-04 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19C. Maryland Able Program
§ 18–19C-04LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
An eligible individual may participate in and benefit from the Maryland ABLE Program.
(2)
An ABLE account may be established only for an eligible individual by:
(i)
The eligible individual;
(ii)
A person selected by the eligible individual; or
(iii)
Subject to paragraph (3) of this subsection and except as provided in paragraph (4) of this subsection, if an eligible individual, whether a minor or an adult, is unable to establish an ABLE account:
(1)
The eligible individual’s agent under a power of attorney; or
(2)
If the eligible individual does not have a power of attorney, in the following order, the eligible individual’s:
(A)
Conservator or legal guardian;
(B)
Spouse;
(C)
Parent;
(D)
Sibling;
(E)
Grandparent; or
(F)
Representative payee appointed for the eligible individual by the Social Security Administration.
(3)
The Board may accept a certification made under the penalties of perjury from the person seeking to establish an ABLE account that indicates:
(i)
The basis of the person’s authority to establish the ABLE account; and
(ii)
There is no other person with a higher priority to establish the ABLE account under paragraph (2)(iii) of this subsection.
(4)
The following individuals may not establish an ABLE account on behalf of an eligible individual:
(i)
A minor;
(ii)
An individual against whom the eligible individual has obtained a peace or protective order;
(iii)
An individual who has been held civilly or criminally liable for financial exploitation under Title 13, Subtitle 6 of the Estates and Trusts Article; or
(iv)
An individual who is the subject of a civil or criminal order prohibiting contact with the eligible individual.
(b)
Subject to the provisions of § 529A of the Internal Revenue Code, distributions shall be requested by the designated beneficiary or the person authorized to establish the ABLE account under subsection (a) of this section.
(c)
The Board may adopt regulations to carry out this section.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-19C-05 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19C. Maryland Able Program
§ 18–19C-05LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
The debts, contracts, and obligations of the Maryland ABLE Program are not the contracts, debts, or obligations of the State, and neither the faith and credit nor taxing power of the State is pledged directly or indirectly or contingently, morally or otherwise, to the payment of the debts, contracts, and obligations.
(2)
The State Treasurer may not directly or indirectly or contingently obligate, morally or otherwise, the State to levy or pledge any form of taxation whatsoever for the debts and obligations of the Maryland ABLE Program or to make any appropriation for the payment of the debts and obligations of the Maryland ABLE Program.
(b)
The State may not be liable for any losses or shortage of funds in the event that the designated beneficiary’s ABLE account balance is insufficient to meet the designated beneficiary’s qualified disability expenses.
(c)
Money of the Maryland ABLE Program may not be considered money of the State or deposited in the State Treasury.
(d)
Money of the Maryland ABLE Program may not be considered money of or commingled with the Maryland Senator Edward J. Kasemeyer Prepaid College Trust.
(e)
Money of the Maryland ABLE Program may not be considered money of or commingled with the Maryland Senator Edward J. Kasemeyer College Investment Plan.
(f)
Money of the Maryland ABLE Program may not be considered money of or commingled with the Maryland Broker–Dealer College Investment Plan.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-19C-06 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19C. Maryland Able Program
§ 18–19C-06LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Maryland 529 Program, the Maryland ABLE Program, and the ABLE accounts issued under this subtitle are not subject to the provisions of the Insurance Article.
(b)
The assets and income of the Maryland ABLE Program are exempt from State and local taxation.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-19C-07 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19C. Maryland Able Program
§ 18–19C-07LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this section, “person” does not include the State.
(b)
A person may not attach, execute, garnish, or otherwise seize any current or future benefit under an ABLE account or any asset of the Maryland ABLE Program.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-19C-08 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19C. Maryland Able Program
§ 18–19C-08LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Legislative Auditor shall audit the Maryland ABLE Program as provided under Title 2, Subtitle 12 of the State Government Article.
(b)
The State Treasurer shall obtain an annual audit report from a service provider within 6 months of the end of the reporting period of the service provider.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-19C-09 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19C. Maryland Able Program
§ 18–19C-09LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The State Treasurer shall issue refunds as specified in this section.
(b)
If the contribution of an ABLE account contributor under the Maryland ABLE Program would result in aggregate contributions from all contributors to the ABLE account for the taxable year exceeding the amount specified in § 529A(b)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code for each calendar year in which the taxable year begins, the State Treasurer shall issue a refund to the ABLE account contributor.
(c)
The State Treasurer shall adopt procedures to ensure that contributions to the account of each ABLE account holder do not exceed the total maximum amount determined under § 529A(b)(6) of the Internal Revenue Code.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-19C-10 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 19C. Maryland Able Program
§ 18–19C-10LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Unless prohibited by federal law, on the death of a designated beneficiary, money and assets in an ABLE account may be transferred to:
(1)
The estate of the designated beneficiary; or
(2)
An ABLE account for another eligible individual specified by the designated beneficiary or the estate of the designated beneficiary.
(b)
Unless required by federal law, an agency or instrumentality of the State may not seek payment under § 529A(f) of the Internal Revenue Code from an ABLE account or its proceeds for any amount of medical assistance paid for the designated beneficiary.
Subtitle 20. Maryland Science and Technology Scholarships
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2001 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 20. Maryland Science and Technology Scholarships
§ 18–2001LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)
“Office” means the Office of Student Financial Assistance as defined in § 18-101(c) of this title.
(c)
“Regular undergraduate program” means an academic program of study in an institution of higher education at or below the baccalaureate level leading to either an associate’s degree or bachelor’s degree.
(d)
(1)
“Service obligation” means employment in the State in an occupation directly related to the eligible program of study as determined by the Maryland Higher Education Commission.
(2)
“Service obligation” does not mean paid student internships, paid fellowships, or volunteer service.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2002 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 20. Maryland Science and Technology Scholarships
§ 18–2002LinkCopy Citation
(a)
There is a program of Maryland Science and Technology Scholarships in this State that are awarded under this subtitle. The Office shall annually select students who have the greatest potential for academic success in higher education and offer a scholarship to each student to be used at a Maryland higher education institution of the student’s choice, if the recipient meets the following qualifications:
(1)
Qualifies academically as follows:
(i)
Has a secondary school transcript indicating an overall grade point average of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale or its equivalent after completion of the first semester of the senior year;
(ii)
Intends to enroll or is enrolled as a full-time student in an academic program as designated by the Maryland Higher Education Commission; and
(iii)
Has graduated from a secondary school;
(2)
Is a Maryland resident and was a Maryland resident at the time of graduating from secondary school;
(3)
Is accepted for admission in a regular undergraduate program at a Maryland higher education institution in the State;
(4)
Begins attending an eligible Maryland higher education institution within 5 years of completing secondary school or, failing to do so, provides evidence satisfactory to the Office of extenuating circumstances;
(5)
Agrees to the conditions provided in subsection (c) of this section; and
(6)
Accepts any other conditions attached to the award and satisfies any additional criteria the Commission may establish.
(b)
(1)
The annual scholarship award shall be in the amount of $1,000 for a student enrolled at a 2-year eligible institution or $3,000 for a student enrolled at a 4-year eligible institution.
(2)
If accepted by the eligible student, each award may be renewed on an annual basis for a maximum of 3 years after the original award if the recipient:
(i)
Remains a resident of the State;
(ii)
Attends a Maryland higher education institution in the State;
(iii)
Is enrolled as a full-time undergraduate student and takes at least 12 semester hours of courses each semester or its equivalent as determined by the Office;
(iv)
Maintains a 3.0 grade point average on an academic year basis or, failing to do so, provides evidence satisfactory to the Office, of extreme extenuating circumstances;
(v)
Is making satisfactory progress toward a degree as determined by the institution; and
(vi)
Maintains the standards of the institution.
(3)
Subject to the provisions of paragraph (2) of this subsection, each recipient of a Maryland Science and Technology Scholarship who is enrolled in a baccalaureate degree program may renew the annual award four times if the recipient is enrolled in an undergraduate academic program that, as determined by the institution, requires 5 years to complete.
(4)
Subject to the provisions of paragraph (2) of this subsection, each award may be renewed on an annual basis for a maximum of 2 years for students enrolled in an associate degree program.
(c)
A recipient of an award made under this section shall receive the award for each year indicated in which the recipient is eligible if:
(1)
The recipient signs an agreement at the time of the initial award to:
(i)
Commence employment in the State within 1 year after completion of undergraduate studies for 1 year for each year that the scholarship was awarded; and
(ii)
Repay the State the amounts awarded under this subtitle as set forth in § 18-112 of this title if the recipient does not:
(1)
Satisfy the degree requirements of the eligible academic program or fulfill other requirements as provided in this subtitle; and
(2)
Perform the service obligation for 1 year for each year that the recipient has a scholarship awarded under this subtitle; and
(2)
The service obligation begins after graduation and cannot be fulfilled prior to graduation from an eligible institution.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2003 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 20. Maryland Science and Technology Scholarships
§ 18–2003LinkCopy Citation
A Maryland Science and Technology Scholarship may be used for tuition and mandatory fees at any eligible institution.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2004 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 20. Maryland Science and Technology Scholarships
§ 18–2004LinkCopy Citation
Each year after consulting with the Department of Commerce, the Maryland Department of Labor, and the appropriate commission advisory boards and evaluating such factors as high economic growth and the needs of Maryland’s science and technology industry and business community, the Commission shall establish a list of academic programs eligible for the Maryland Science and Technology Scholarship Program.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2005 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 20. Maryland Science and Technology Scholarships
§ 18–2005LinkCopy Citation
Funds for the Maryland Science and Technology Scholarship Program shall be as provided in the annual budget of the Commission by the Governor.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2006 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 20. Maryland Science and Technology Scholarships
§ 18–2006LinkCopy Citation
On or before May 1 of each year, the Office shall send each Senator and each Delegate a list of individuals in each legislative district to whom Maryland Science and Technology Scholarships are awarded.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2007 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 20. Maryland Science and Technology Scholarships
§ 18–2007LinkCopy Citation
The Office of Student Financial Assistance shall publicize the availability of Maryland Science and Technology Scholarships.
Subtitle 21. James Proctor Scholarship Program
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2101 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 21. James Proctor Scholarship Program
§ 18–2101LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)
“HBCU” means the following historically black colleges and universities:
(1)
Bowie State University;
(2)
Coppin State University;
(3)
Morgan State University; and
(4)
University of Maryland Eastern Shore.
(c)
“Program” means the James Proctor Scholarship Program.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2102 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 21. James Proctor Scholarship Program
§ 18–2102LinkCopy Citation
There is a James Proctor Scholarship Program in the State.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2103 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 21. James Proctor Scholarship Program
§ 18–2103LinkCopy Citation
The purpose of the Program is to award scholarships to students who attend an HBCU.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2104 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 21. James Proctor Scholarship Program
§ 18–2104LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Each HBCU shall apply funding from the Program to the tuition and fees of an enrolled student who is a resident of the State.
(b)
Any student financial aid, other than a student loan, received by a student who receives a scholarship under the Program shall be applied first to pay the student’s tuition and fees.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2105 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 21. James Proctor Scholarship Program
§ 18–2105LinkCopy Citation
Each HBCU shall administer the Program on its campus and shall adopt policies, subject to the requirements of this subtitle, to establish:
(1)
Eligibility requirements for a student receiving a scholarship under the Program;
(2)
Award amounts to be given to eligible students;
(3)
A procedure and schedule for the payment of the scholarship award provided to an eligible student; and
(4)
Any other policies necessary for the implementation of the Program.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2106 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 21. James Proctor Scholarship Program
§ 18–2106LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Governor shall include in the annual budget bill an appropriation of at least $400,000 to the Program for scholarship awards.
(b)
These funds appropriated under subsection (a) of this section shall be divided and distributed equally to each HBCU.
Subtitle 22. Maryland Teacher Scholarships
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2201 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 22. Maryland Teacher Scholarships
§ 18–2201LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)
“Eligible institution” means a:
(1)
Public senior higher education institution in the State that possesses a certificate of approval from the Commission and has a department, school, or college of education; or
(2)
Private nonprofit institution of higher education in the State that possesses a certificate of approval from the Commission, has a department, school, or college of education, and agrees to provide a matching grant to an undergraduate or graduate student, as appropriate, who receives a Teaching Fellows for Maryland scholarship in the lesser of:
(i)
100% of the annual cost of tuition and mandatory fees at the University of Maryland, College Park Campus; or
(ii)
50% of the cost of tuition and mandatory fees at the private nonprofit institution of higher education.
(c)
(1)
“Service obligation” means to teach full time in the State as a teacher in a Maryland public school or a public prekindergarten program:
(i)
That is in a high–needs school, as identified by the Department; or
(ii)
In a grade level or content area in which there is a shortage of qualified educators, as identified by the Department.
(2)
“Service obligation” does not mean employment as teaching assistants, volunteer service, paid fellowships, or internships.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2202 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 22. Maryland Teacher Scholarships
§ 18–2202LinkCopy Citation
(a)
There is a program of Teaching Fellows for Maryland scholarships that are awarded under this subtitle for students who pledge to work as public school or public prekindergarten teachers in the State upon completion of their studies at:
(1)
A high–needs school, as identified by the Department; or
(2)
In a grade level or content area in which there is a shortage of qualified educators, as identified by the Department.
(b)
Each year the Department shall submit to the Office a list of:
(1)
High–needs schools in which there are a significant proportion of:
(i)
Teacher vacancies; and
(ii)
Teachers teaching in a grade level or content area other than the grade level or content area in which they are certificated; and
(2)
Grade levels and content areas in which there are a significant proportion of:
(i)
Teacher vacancies; and
(ii)
Teachers teaching in a grade level or content area other than the grade level or content area in which they are certificated.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2203 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 22. Maryland Teacher Scholarships
§ 18–2203LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Office shall annually select eligible students and offer a scholarship to each student selected to be used at an eligible institution of their choice.
(b)
(1)
Subject to paragraph (2) of this subsection, a recipient of the Teaching Fellows for Maryland scholarship shall:
(i)
Except as provided in subsection (c) of this section, be accepted for admission or currently enrolled at an eligible institution as a full–time or part–time undergraduate or graduate student pursuing a course of study or program in an academic discipline leading to a Maryland professional teacher’s certificate;
(ii)
Continue to make satisfactory progress toward a degree and maintain the standards of the institution;
(iii)
Sign a letter of intent to perform the service obligation upon completion of the recipient’s required studies;
(iv)
Accept any other conditions attached to the award; and
(v)
Satisfy any additional criteria the Commission may establish.
(2)
Notwithstanding paragraph (1) of this subsection, an individual who, at the time the individual is scheduled to matriculate at an eligible institution, will have been employed as a teaching assistant at a public school or public prekindergarten program in the State for at least 2 years:
(i)
May apply for a Teaching Fellows for Maryland scholarship under this subtitle; and
(ii)
Is eligible to hold a Teaching Fellows for Maryland scholarship as a full–time or part–time undergraduate or graduate student.
(3)
A recipient of the Teaching Fellows for Maryland scholarship may be an individual who is enrolled or plans to enroll at an eligible institution as a full–time or part–time undergraduate or graduate student who:
(i)
Changes majors to pursue a course of study or program in an academic discipline leading to a Maryland professional teacher’s certificate; or
(ii)
Seeks to change careers to pursue a course of study or program in an academic discipline leading to a Maryland professional teacher’s certificate.
(4)
In selecting awardees for a Teaching Fellows for Maryland scholarship, the Office shall give preference to applicants, including those applying under paragraph (2) of this subsection, who have been employed in a public school or a publicly funded prekindergarten program within the last 5 years.
(c)
A recipient of the Teaching Fellows for Maryland scholarship may not hold a Maryland professional teacher’s certificate.
(d)
(1)
Applicants who are secondary school students shall provide a high school transcript after completion of the first semester of their senior year.
(2)
Applicants who are currently enrolled in an eligible institution shall provide the most recent college transcript, or if not applicable, the applicant may submit a final high school transcript.
(3)
Applicants who are not currently enrolled in an eligible institution, but who are high school graduates, shall provide a final high school transcript.
(4)
Applicants who are high school graduates and are not currently enrolled in an eligible institution, but have completed some courses at an eligible institution, shall provide the most recent college transcript.
(5)
Applicants who are not currently enrolled in an eligible institution, but who are college graduates, shall provide a final college transcript.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2204 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 22. Maryland Teacher Scholarships
§ 18–2204LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, the recipient of a Teaching Fellows for Maryland scholarship shall repay the Commission the funds received as set forth in § 18–112 of this title if the recipient does not:
(1)
Satisfy the degree requirements of the eligible course of study or program or fulfill other requirements as provided in this subtitle;
(2)
Perform the service obligation to teach in a public school or a public prekindergarten program in a high–needs school, as identified by the Department, or in a grade level or content area in which there is a shortage of qualified educators, as identified by the Department, for a period of at least 2 years; and
(3)
Become professionally certified to teach in the State of Maryland within the time period specified by the Commission in consultation with the Department.
(b)
(1)
If a recipient is unable to perform the service obligation required under this subtitle because there are no available positions in a qualifying school, grade level, or content area, the recipient may work in any public school or public prekindergarten program in the State.
(2)
If a recipient performs the service obligation by teaching at a school, grade level, or content area previously identified as high–needs that is no longer identified as high–needs, the recipient may continue to teach in that school, grade level, or content area without being required to repay the funds received under this subtitle.
(c)
The Office shall forgive a recipient of a Teaching Fellows for Maryland scholarship for 2 years of an award if:
(1)
(i)
The recipient has taken the teacher certification examination, approved by the State Board of Education, in 2 consecutive years; and
(ii)
The recipient fails to pass the teacher certification examination within the time period specified by the Commission in accordance with subsection (a)(3) of this section; or
(2)
The recipient provides to the Office satisfactory evidence of extenuating circumstances that prevent the recipient from becoming professionally certified to teach in the State.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2205 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 22. Maryland Teacher Scholarships
§ 18–2205LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The annual scholarship award shall be:
(1)
At a public senior higher education institution in the State that has a department, school, or college of education, 100% of the equivalent annual tuition, mandatory fees, and room and board of a resident undergraduate student or graduate student, as appropriate, at the public senior higher education institution; or
(2)
Subject to subsection (b) of this section, at a private nonprofit institution of higher education in the State that has a department, school, or college of education, an amount equal to:
(i)
The lesser of:
(1)
100% of the equivalent annual tuition and mandatory fees of a resident undergraduate student or graduate student, as appropriate, at the University of Maryland, College Park Campus; or
(2)
50% of the equivalent annual tuition and mandatory fees of a resident undergraduate or graduate student, as appropriate, at the eligible private nonprofit institution of higher education; and
(ii)
100% of the room and board of a resident undergraduate student or graduate student, as appropriate, at the eligible private nonprofit institution of higher education in the State.
(b)
A private nonprofit institution of higher education shall provide a matching scholarship award in an amount equal to the award calculated in subsection (a)(2)(i) of this section.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2206 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 22. Maryland Teacher Scholarships
§ 18–2206LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, each recipient of a Teaching Fellows for Maryland scholarship may renew the award three times if the recipient:
(1)
Continues to be a full–time or part–time undergraduate or graduate student at an eligible institution as determined by the Office; and
(2)
Continues to make satisfactory progress toward a degree and maintains the standards of the institution.
(b)
Each recipient of the Teaching Fellows for Maryland scholarship may renew the annual award four times if the recipient is enrolled in a course of study that, as determined by the institution, requires 5 years to complete.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2207 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 22. Maryland Teacher Scholarships
§ 18–2207LinkCopy Citation
A Teaching Fellows for Maryland scholarship may be used for tuition, mandatory fees, and room and board at any eligible institution.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2208 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 22. Maryland Teacher Scholarships
§ 18–2208LinkCopy Citation
If an eligible institution has enrolled at least 15 recipients of a Teaching Fellows for Maryland scholarship, the eligible institution shall develop and implement an enriched honors program of education that is responsive to exceptional dedication and merit–based accomplishment in the study of education and preparation for the teaching profession.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2209 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 22. Maryland Teacher Scholarships
§ 18–2209LinkCopy Citation
The Governor annually shall include in the annual budget bill an appropriation of at least the following amounts for the Commission to award scholarships under this subtitle:
(1)
For fiscal year 2022, $4,000,000;
(2)
For fiscal year 2023, $8,000,000;
(3)
For fiscal year 2024, $12,000,000; and
(4)
For fiscal year 2025 and each fiscal year thereafter, $18,000,000.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2210 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 22. Maryland Teacher Scholarships
§ 18–2210LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
The Office, in collaboration with the Department, shall publicize the availability of Teaching Fellows for Maryland scholarships.
(2)
The Office shall focus on publicizing the availability of the Teaching Fellows for Maryland scholarships:
(i)
At historically Black colleges and universities in the State;
(ii)
To teaching assistants and other educational support staff currently working in public schools and publicly funded prekindergarten programs; and
(iii)
In a manner that promotes the program to students who are members of groups that are underrepresented in the teaching profession.
(b)
To the extent practicable, the Office shall award scholarships under this subtitle in a manner that reflects ethnic, gender, racial, and geographic diversity.
Subtitle 23. Maryland Hope Scholarships
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2301 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 23. Maryland Hope Scholarships
§ 18–2301LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)
“Eligible institution” means a public or private nonprofit institution of higher education in this State that possesses a certificate of approval from the Maryland Higher Education Commission.
(c)
“Regular undergraduate program” means an academic program of study in an institution of higher education at or below the baccalaureate level leading to either an associate’s degree or bachelor’s degree.
(d)
“Service obligation” means full-time employment within the State.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2302 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 23. Maryland Hope Scholarships
§ 18–2302LinkCopy Citation
(a)
There is a program of Maryland HOPE Scholarships in this State that are awarded under this subtitle.
(b)
The Office shall publicize the availability of Maryland HOPE Scholarships.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2303 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 23. Maryland Hope Scholarships
§ 18–2303LinkCopy Citation
Each recipient of a Maryland HOPE Scholarship shall:
(1)
Be accepted for admission in a regular undergraduate program at an eligible institution in the State;
(2)
Be a resident of the State;
(3)
Earn an overall grade point average of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale or its equivalent after completion of the first semester of the senior year;
(4)
Begin attending an eligible institution within 2 years of completing high school or, failing to do so, provide evidence satisfactory to the Office of extenuating circumstances;
(5)
Enroll as a full-time student at an eligible institution;
(6)
Have an annual total family income of $95,000 or below;
(7)
Accept any other conditions attached to the award; and
(8)
Satisfy any additional criteria the Maryland Higher Education Commission may establish.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2304 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 23. Maryland Hope Scholarships
§ 18–2304LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The annual scholarship award shall be in the amount of $1,000 for a student enrolled at a 2-year eligible institution or $3,000 for a student enrolled in a 4-year eligible institution.
(b)
A student who transfers from a 2-year eligible institution to a 4-year eligible institution may receive an annual scholarship award in the amount of $3,000 once the student is enrolled at the 4-year eligible institution.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2305 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 23. Maryland Hope Scholarships
§ 18–2305LinkCopy Citation
A Maryland HOPE Scholarship may be used at an eligible institution in the State.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2306 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 23. Maryland Hope Scholarships
§ 18–2306LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Each recipient of a Maryland HOPE Scholarship may hold the award for 5 years if the recipient:
(1)
Continues to be a resident of the State;
(2)
Continues to be a full-time student at an eligible institution in the State and takes at least 12 semester hours of courses each semester or its equivalent as determined by the Office;
(3)
Upon completion of the freshman year, has achieved a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, and maintains this minimum cumulative grade point average throughout the remainder of the award, or failing to do so, provides evidence satisfactory to the Office of extenuating circumstances;
(4)
In the judgment of the institution, is making satisfactory progress toward a degree; and
(5)
Maintains the standards of the institution.
(b)
Each recipient of a Maryland HOPE Scholarship who is enrolled in an associate degree program as permitted in this subtitle may hold the award for 3 years if the same conditions of subsection (a) of this section are met.
(c)
Each recipient of a Maryland HOPE Scholarship who transfers from a 2-year eligible institution to a 4-year eligible institution may hold the award for a total of 5 years, including the years at both the 2-year eligible institution and the 4-year eligible institution, if the same conditions of subsection (a) of this section are met.
(d)
A recipient of an award made under this section shall receive the award for each year indicated in which the recipient is eligible if the recipient signs an agreement at the time of the initial award to:
(1)
Commence employment in the State within 1 year after completion of undergraduate studies for 1 year for each year that the scholarship was awarded; and
(2)
Repay the State the amounts awarded under this subtitle as set forth in § 18-112 of this title if the recipient does not:
(i)
Satisfy the degree requirements of the eligible institution or fulfill other requirements as provided in this subtitle; and
(ii)
Perform the service obligation for 1 year for each year that the recipient has a scholarship awarded under this subtitle.
(e)
The service obligation begins after graduation and cannot be fulfilled prior to graduation from an eligible institution.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2307 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 23. Maryland Hope Scholarships
§ 18–2307LinkCopy Citation
On or before May 1 of each year, the Office shall send each Senator and each Delegate a list of individuals in each legislative district to whom Maryland HOPE Scholarships are awarded.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2308 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 23. Maryland Hope Scholarships
§ 18–2308LinkCopy Citation
A Maryland HOPE Scholarship may be used for tuition and mandatory fees at any eligible institution.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2309 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 23. Maryland Hope Scholarships
§ 18–2309LinkCopy Citation
Funds for the Maryland HOPE Scholarship Program shall be as provided in the annual budget of the Maryland Higher Education Commission by the Governor.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2310 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 23. Maryland Hope Scholarships
§ 18–2310LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Maryland Higher Education Commission shall draft a plan to administer a Maryland HOPE Scholarship Program.
(b)
The Commission’s plan shall include:
(1)
A 3–year schedule, beginning July 1, 2000, for the progressive implementation of the Maryland HOPE Scholarship Award to all eligible students; and
(2)
A priority list of the applicable fields of study which focuses on such factors as:
(i)
Economic need of the State;
(ii)
Employment shortage areas of the State; and
(iii)
Training and education capacity of the higher education institutions in Maryland.
(c)
The priority list shall be created in consultation with the appropriate advisory boards of the Commission, the Department of Commerce, and representatives of higher education and private industry.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2311 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 23. Maryland Hope Scholarships
§ 18–2311LinkCopy Citation
The Maryland Higher Education Commission shall submit the plan for the implementation of the Maryland HOPE Scholarship Program to the Governor and the Legislative Policy Committee of the General Assembly by October 30, 1999.
Subtitle 24. Maryland Dent-Care Program
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2401 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 24. Maryland Dent-Care Program
§ 18–2401LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)
“Higher education loan” means any loan for undergraduate or graduate study leading to practice as a dentist or dental hygienist that is obtained for tuition, educational expenses, or living expenses from:
(1)
A college or university, government, or commercial source; or
(2)
An organization, institution, association, society, or corporation that is exempt from taxation under § 501(c)(3) or (4) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.
(c)
“Program” means the Maryland Dent–Care Program.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2402 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 24. Maryland Dent-Care Program
§ 18–2402LinkCopy Citation
(a)
There is a program of higher education loan assistance grants to dentists and dental hygienists in the State, known as the Maryland Dent–Care Program.
(b)
The purpose of the Program is to increase access to oral health services for underserved Maryland Medical Assistance Program recipients by increasing the number of dentists and dental hygienists who treat that population.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2403 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 24. Maryland Dent-Care Program
§ 18–2403LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Office shall administer the Program with the assistance of the Maryland Department of Health, Office of Oral Health.
(b)
The Maryland Department of Health, Office of Oral Health shall:
(1)
Recruit dentists and dental hygienists to participate in the Program;
(2)
Determine if the private practice or clinical setting in which an applicant will practice is located near or readily accessible to underserved Maryland Medical Assistance Program recipients and if the applicant qualifies for the Program;
(3)
Determine if each dentist participant or, for each dental hygienist participant, each office in which the participant works meets the Program requirements and serves the required number of Maryland Medical Assistance Program recipients; and
(4)
Notify the Office of any findings made in accordance with the provisions of this subsection.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2404 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 24. Maryland Dent-Care Program
§ 18–2404LinkCopy Citation
Each applicant for a Higher Education Loan Assistance Grant under this subtitle shall:
(1)
Be licensed to practice in Maryland by the State Board of Dental Examiners;
(2)
Demonstrate financial need;
(3)
Be employed full time or part time as a dentist or dental hygienist;
(4)
Agree that at least 30% of the patients treated by the dentist or in the practice in which the dental hygienist works each year for a 3–year period in a private practice or clinical setting will be Maryland Medical Assistance Program recipients; and
(5)
Meet any other criteria established by the Office.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2405 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 24. Maryland Dent-Care Program
§ 18–2405LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Office, on notification by the Maryland Department of Health, may award Higher Education Loan Assistance Grants.
(b)
The Office, in collaboration with the Maryland Department of Health, shall adopt regulations to determine:
(1)
The maximum number of participants in the Program each year;
(2)
The maximum number of total participants in the Program; and
(3)
Subject to subsection (c) of this section, the minimum and maximum amount of a Higher Education Loan Assistance Grant awarded under this subtitle.
(c)
(1)
On or after October 1, 2023, the amount of a Higher Education Loan Assistance Grant awarded under subsection (a) of this section:
(i)
Shall be at least $50,000 per year for 3 years for a dentist; and
(ii)
May not exceed $10,000 per year for 2 years for a dental hygienist.
(2)
The Office, in collaboration with the Maryland Department of Health, shall periodically evaluate the minimum and maximum grant amounts determined under subsection (b)(3) of this section.
(3)
The Office, in collaboration with the Maryland Department of Health, shall establish prorated Higher Education Loan Assistance Grant amounts for part–time dentists and part–time dental hygienists.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2406 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 24. Maryland Dent-Care Program
§ 18–2406LinkCopy Citation
Each recipient of a Higher Education Loan Assistance Grant under this subtitle may hold the grant for up to 3 years if the recipient:
(1)
Continues to be employed full time or part time as a dentist or dental hygienist; and
(2)
Continues to treat Maryland Medical Assistance Program recipients as at least 30% of all patients treated:
(i)
By the dentist in a private practice or clinical setting authorized under the Program; or
(ii)
In the private practice or clinical setting in which the dental hygienist works.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2407 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 24. Maryland Dent-Care Program
§ 18–2407LinkCopy Citation
The Office, in collaboration with the Maryland Department of Health, shall adopt regulations to carry out the provisions of this subtitle, including regulations on repayment of funds if the participant fails to comply with the requirements of the Program.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2408 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 24. Maryland Dent-Care Program
§ 18–2408LinkCopy Citation
Funds for the Program shall be as provided in the State budget.
Subtitle 25. Hope for Nontraditional Students -- 2+2 Transfer Scholarship Program
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2501 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 25. Hope for Nontraditional Students -- 2+2 Transfer Scholarship Program
§ 18–2501LinkCopy Citation
There is a 2+2 Transfer Scholarship Program in the State under which scholarships are awarded under this subtitle.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2502 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 25. Hope for Nontraditional Students -- 2+2 Transfer Scholarship Program
§ 18–2502LinkCopy Citation
A 2+2 Transfer Scholarship awarded under this subtitle may be used only at a public senior higher education institution or a private nonprofit institution of higher education in the State.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2503 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 25. Hope for Nontraditional Students -- 2+2 Transfer Scholarship Program
§ 18–2503LinkCopy Citation
To qualify for a 2+2 Transfer Scholarship, an applicant shall:
(1)
Be a resident of the State;
(2)
Be a student at a community college in the State;
(3)
Maintain a cumulative 2.5 grade point average on a 4.0 scale while a student at a community college in the State;
(4)
Have earned an associate’s degree from a community college in the State by the end of the semester in which the applicant plans to transfer;
(5)
Be accepted for admission in a degree program at a public senior higher education institution or a private nonprofit institution of higher education in the State;
(6)
Intend to enroll in a public senior higher education institution or a private nonprofit institution of higher education in the State in order to complete a bachelor’s degree program;
(7)
On or after the fall semester of 2014, enroll as a full–time student in a public senior higher education institution or a private nonprofit institution of higher education in the State by the fall semester following completion of the associate’s degree;
(8)
In the case of an individual who is required to register with the Selective Service System, have complied with the registration requirement;
(9)
Have completed the federal Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA);
(10)
Have demonstrated financial need, defined by the Commission; and
(11)
Accept any other conditions or satisfy any additional criteria that the Commission or the Office may establish.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2504 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 25. Hope for Nontraditional Students -- 2+2 Transfer Scholarship Program
§ 18–2504LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, the annual amount of the 2+2 Transfer Scholarship awarded under this subtitle shall be $1,000.
(2)
For a student who enrolls in a science, teaching, engineering, computer science, mathematics, or nursing program at a public senior higher education institution or a private nonprofit institution of higher education in the State, the annual amount of the 2+2 Transfer Scholarship awarded under this subtitle shall be $2,000.
(b)
A 2+2 Transfer Scholarship may be used for tuition and mandatory fees for 3 years of study, or six semesters of study, whichever is longer.
(c)
To retain a 2+2 Transfer Scholarship, the recipient shall:
(1)
Remain a resident of the State;
(2)
Continue to be enrolled as an undergraduate student in a degree program at a public senior higher education institution or a private nonprofit institution of higher education in the State;
(3)
Maintain a 2.5 grade point average on a 4.0 scale each academic year the individual is enrolled at a public senior higher education institution or a private nonprofit institution of higher education in the State or provide evidence satisfactory to the Office of extenuating circumstances; and
(4)
Maintain the standards of the eligible institution that the individual attends.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2505 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 25. Hope for Nontraditional Students -- 2+2 Transfer Scholarship Program
§ 18–2505LinkCopy Citation
On or before July 1 of each year, the Office shall send to each member of the Maryland General Assembly a list of individuals in each legislative district to whom 2+2 Transfer Scholarships are awarded.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2506 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 25. Hope for Nontraditional Students -- 2+2 Transfer Scholarship Program
§ 18–2506LinkCopy Citation
The Office shall publicize the availability of 2+2 Transfer Scholarships under this subtitle.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2507 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 25. Hope for Nontraditional Students -- 2+2 Transfer Scholarship Program
§ 18–2507LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Funding for the Program shall be as provided in the State budget.
(b)
If the State budget does not include at least $2,000,000 for the 2+2 Transfer Scholarship Program in any fiscal year, funds shall be transferred from the Need–based Student Financial Assistance Fund, established under § 18–107 of this title, in an amount that provides a total of at least $2,000,000 to make awards under the 2+2 Transfer Scholarship Program each year.
Subtitle 26. Maryland Graduate and Professional Scholarship Program
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2601 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 26. Maryland Graduate and Professional Scholarship Program
§ 18–2601LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In cooperation with the institutions of higher education in the State, the Commission shall establish and administer a Graduate and Professional Scholarship Program to provide financial assistance to full–time and part–time students in the fields of medicine, dentistry, law, pharmacy, nursing, social work, and veterinary medicine.
(b)
A recipient of a graduate and professional scholarship shall:
(1)
Be a resident of the State;
(2)
Demonstrate financial need according to criteria established by the Commission; and
(3)
Attend one of the following institutions:
(i)
The University of Maryland School of:
(1)
Medicine;
(2)
Dentistry;
(3)
Law;
(4)
Pharmacy; or
(5)
Social Work;
(ii)
The University of Baltimore School of Law;
(iii)
The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine;
(iv)
Virginia–Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine;
(v)
The Meritus School of Osteopathic Medicine;
(vi)
The University of Maryland Eastern Shore enrolled in one of the following degree programs:
(1)
Master of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies;
(2)
Doctor of Pharmacy;
(3)
Doctor of Physical Therapy; or
(4)
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine;
(vii)
Any institution of higher education in the State offering a master’s degree in nursing;
(viii)
Any institution of higher education in the State offering a master’s degree in social work; or
(ix)
Any institution of higher education in the State offering a first professional degree in pharmacy.
(c)
A graduate and professional scholarship award for a single school year may not be less than $1,000 or more than $5,000.
(d)
A recipient may not receive an award for longer than 8 semesters.
(e)
(1)
The Commission shall allocate grants for the Program to the institutions of higher education specified in subsection (b)(3) of this section based on the proportion of State residents enrolled in eligible programs at each institution.
(2)
An institution of higher education that receives a grant under this section shall provide the Commission with an annual audit describing the disposition of the funds.
(f)
The Commission shall:
(1)
Establish guidelines for the awarding of graduate and professional scholarships by the institutions of higher education to the students; and
(2)
Adopt regulations necessary for the implementation of this section.
(g)
Funds for the Maryland Graduate and Professional Scholarship Program shall be as provided in the State budget.
Subtitle 27. Teacher Development and Retention Program
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2701 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 27. Teacher Development and Retention Program
§ 18–2701LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)
“Eligible individual” means an individual who is:
(1)
Enrolled in the first or second year at an institution of initial eligibility; and
(2)
Interested in pursuing a career in the teaching profession.
(c)
“Fund” means the Teacher Development and Retention Fund established under this subtitle.
(d)
“Institution of initial eligibility” means:
(1)
An institution of higher education in the State where at least 40% of the attendees receive federal Pell Grants; or
(2)
A community college established under Title 16 of this article.
(e)
“Program” means the Teacher Development and Retention Program established under this subtitle.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2702 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 27. Teacher Development and Retention Program
§ 18–2702LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
There is a Teacher Development and Retention Program.
(2)
The Teacher Development and Retention Program is a pilot program designed to incentivize a cohort of students to pursue a career in the teaching profession.
(b)
(1)
The purpose of the Program is to provide support to eligible individuals who ultimately pledge to fulfill a service obligation as a teacher employed full–time in a high–needs school, grade level, or content area in the State in which there is a shortage of teachers, as identified by the Department.
(2)
The Program shall provide financial support to eligible individuals interested in pursuing a career in the teaching profession, beginning by offering eligible individuals a one–time stipend for participation in an experiential learning opportunity in a classroom and concluding by placing those individuals in high–needs schools, grade levels, or content areas.
(c)
The Office shall establish eligibility criteria for the Program, including requirements for an applicant to:
(1)
Be enrolled in the first or second year at an institution of initial eligibility in an associate’s or a bachelor’s degree program; and
(2)
Before receiving an educator internship stipend under § 18–2703 of this subtitle, pledge to fulfill a service obligation as a teacher employed full–time in a high–needs school, grade level, or content area in which there is a shortage of teachers, as identified by the Department, for a minimum of 2 years.
(d)
The Office shall administer the Program and establish a process for eligible individuals to apply to the Program.
(e)
(1)
The Office shall develop a process for awarding stipends to individuals who meet the eligibility criteria for the Program.
(2)
The Office shall give preference to applicants who have been employed in a public school or a publicly funded prekindergarten program within the last 5 years.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2703 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 27. Teacher Development and Retention Program
§ 18–2703LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
In each school year from the 2024–2025 school year through the 2026–2027 school year, a recipient who is selected for support under the Program shall receive an initial stipend to support the recipient’s participation in an experiential learning opportunity in a public school or publicly funded prekindergarten classroom.
(2)
The experiential learning opportunity shall:
(i)
Occur within the first or second year of the recipient’s enrollment in an institution of initial eligibility; and
(ii)
Contribute to the education of the students in the classroom in which the recipient participates.
(3)
The purpose of the initial stipend awarded under this subsection is to nurture in the recipient a passion for becoming a teacher.
(4)
If the institution of initial eligibility has a written agreement with a public partner school or publicly funded prekindergarten program for the establishment of a training practicum under § 6–120 of this article, then the recipient’s experiential learning opportunity shall be in a classroom within the partner school.
(5)
The Office shall determine the amount of the initial stipends awarded under this subsection.
(b)
(1)
In each school year from the 2027–2028 school year through the 2029–2030 school year, a Program recipient shall be eligible for an internship stipend if the Program recipient:
(i)
Is currently enrolled in a teacher preparation program at an institution of higher education in the State that, through its course of study leads to a Maryland professional teacher’s certificate;
(ii)
Is currently engaged in an internship or a practicum providing direct experience working with students in a public school or publicly funded prekindergarten program as part of the recipient’s course of study;
(iii)
Continues to make satisfactory progress toward a degree and maintain the standards of the institution; and
(iv)
Pledges to fulfill a service obligation for 2 years as a teacher employed full–time in a high–needs school, grade level, or content area in which there is a shortage of teachers, as identified by the Department under paragraph (4) of this subsection.
(2)
A Program recipient who meets the requirements of paragraph (1) of this subsection shall receive an internship stipend of up to $20,000 for a 10–month educator internship.
(3)
If the recipient of an internship stipend does not fulfill the service obligation, the recipient shall repay the Commission the funds received under this subsection as set forth in § 18–112 of this title.
(4)
In order to ensure that Program recipients fulfill the service obligation, the Department shall submit to the Office a list of:
(i)
High–needs schools in which there are a significant proportion of:
(1)
Teacher vacancies; and
(2)
Teachers teaching in a grade level or content area other than the grade level or content area in which they are certificated; and
(ii)
Grade levels and content areas in which there are a significant proportion of:
(1)
Teacher vacancies; and
(2)
Teachers teaching in a grade level or content area other than the grade level or content area in which they are certificated.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2704 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 27. Teacher Development and Retention Program
§ 18–2704LinkCopy Citation
Funding for the Program shall be as provided in the State budget.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2705 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 27. Teacher Development and Retention Program
§ 18–2705LinkCopy Citation
(a)
On or before July 1, 2029, the Commission shall conduct an evaluation of the effectiveness of the Program in attracting new teachers to the profession.
(b)
On or before January 1, 2030, the Commission shall report the results of the evaluation to the Governor, and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of the State Government Article, the General Assembly.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2706 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 27. Teacher Development and Retention Program
§ 18–2706LinkCopy Citation
(a)
There is a Teacher Development and Retention Fund.
(b)
The purpose of the Fund is to provide support to eligible individuals who are interested in pursuing a career in the teaching profession and who ultimately pledge to fulfill a service obligation as a teacher employed full–time in a high–needs school, grade level, or content area in which there is a shortage of teachers.
(c)
The Commission shall administer the Fund.
(d)
(1)
The Fund is a special, nonlapsing fund that is not subject to § 7–302 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.
(2)
The State Treasurer shall hold the Fund separately, and the Comptroller shall account for the Fund.
(e)
The Fund consists of:
(1)
Money appropriated in the State budget to the Fund;
(2)
Interest earnings of the Fund; and
(3)
Any other money from any other source accepted for the benefit of the Fund.
(f)
(1)
The Fund shall be used to administer the Program and provide support to recipients under the Program.
(2)
The Fund may be used for administrative expenses for the Program.
(g)
(1)
The State Treasurer shall invest the money of the Fund in the same manner as other State money may be invested.
(2)
Any interest earnings of the Fund shall be credited to the Fund.
(h)
Expenditures from the Fund may be made only in accordance with the State budget.
Subtitle 27A. Grow Your Own Educators Grant Program
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-27A-01 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 27A. Grow Your Own Educators Grant Program
§ 18–27A-01LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)
“Collaborative” means an agreement outlining commitments of a partnership among:
(1)
At least one local school system;
(2)
At least one employee organization representing employees of a local school system in accordance with Title 6, Subtitle 4 or Subtitle 5 of this article; and
(3)
(i)
At least one institution of higher education in the State; or
(ii)
An alternative partnership model formed in accordance with § 18–27A–04(e) or (f) of this subtitle.
(c)
“Noncertified education support professional” means a public school employee who is not:
(1)
A certificated employee designated as part of a bargaining unit under Title 6, Subtitle 4 of this article;
(2)
A managerial employee; or
(3)
A confidential employee.
(d)
“Program” means the Grow Your Own Educators Grant Program established under this subtitle.
(e)
“Provisional teacher” means an individual employed by a local school system through a provisional contract as a conditional teacher.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-27A-02 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 27A. Grow Your Own Educators Grant Program
§ 18–27A-02LinkCopy Citation
(a)
There is a Grow Your Own Educators Grant Program.
(b)
(1)
The purpose of the Program is to provide support to collaboratives that offer teacher licensure programs with on–the–job experiential learning for eligible individuals who:
(i)
Are interested in pursuing a career in the teaching profession;
(ii)
Are employed by a local school system in the State as a school–based part–time or full–time employee; and
(iii)
Ultimately pledge to fulfill a 3–year service obligation as a teacher employed full–time in a high–needs school, grade level, or content area in the local school system in which they are currently employed.
(2)
The Department shall administer the Program.
(c)
To be eligible for the Program, a teacher candidate applicant shall:
(1)
Be employed as a noncertified education support professional or provisional teacher by a participating local school system on the effective date of the Program in a school–based position;
(2)
Have a high school diploma or its equivalent; and
(3)
Commit to pursue a teacher licensure pathway approved by the Department.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-27A-03 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 27A. Grow Your Own Educators Grant Program
§ 18–27A-03LinkCopy Citation
(a)
A collaborative shall negotiate an agreement that meets the requirements of subsection (b) of this section.
(b)
A collaborative shall develop and submit to the Department:
(1)
A plan that includes:
(i)
Identification of the collaborative members, including the roles and responsibilities of each member;
(ii)
School–based part–time or full–time positions that allow a teacher candidate to systematically develop teaching skills through experiential learning and ultimately demonstrate teaching competencies;
(iii)
Identification of at least one content area in the local school system in which there is a shortage of teachers, as identified by the Department;
(iv)
A mentor who is a regularly employed teacher in the local school system assigned for the entirety of the Program to a teacher candidate, consistent with proper supervision, training, and continuity of employment and applicable provisions in collective bargaining agreements;
(v)
A systemic program of experiential learning that results in credits from the institution of higher education if credits are required for completion, including credits toward the practicum; and
(vi)
The designation of a Program administrator from the local school system to assist teacher candidates, evaluate the effectiveness of the Program, and manage the administration associated with the Program;
(2)
An estimate, based on appropriate data, of the number of projected participants to include in the Program; and
(3)
Evidence of a written billing agreement with an institution of higher education that includes:
(i)
The total cost to the collaborative for the cohort of teacher candidates;
(ii)
Prorated tuition cost the collaborative shall pay the institution of higher education if a candidate does not complete the Program; and
(iii)
A provision that no teacher candidate shall be required to pay tuition, books, or fees as part of the teacher candidate’s course of study.
(c)
A collaborative shall develop and submit to the Department:
(1)
An outreach plan to recruit teacher candidates and mentor teachers that:
(i)
Prioritizes candidates and mentor teachers with linguistic diversity and from racial and ethnic groups historically underrepresented in the teaching profession; and
(ii)
Identifies a sustainability plan to continue recruiting, preparing, and mentoring teacher candidates after completion of the Program; and
(2)
Any other materials required by the Department.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-27A-04 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 27A. Grow Your Own Educators Grant Program
§ 18–27A-04LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
Beginning July 1, 2025, the Department shall consult with a national nonprofit entity that has successfully guided other state education agencies or local education agencies that have increased the number of licensed teachers by:
(i)
Launching sustainable, cost–effective grow–your–own teacher preparation programs;
(ii)
Implementing registered teacher apprenticeships; and
(iii)
Implementing teacher residencies.
(2)
The entity selected under paragraph (1) of this subsection shall support the Department in the design, implementation, and evaluation of the Program, including the development of metrics for establishing high–quality teacher preparation and licensure programs that have the highest likelihood of aiding the State by:
(i)
Increasing the teacher workforce; and
(ii)
Improving teacher retention and diversity.
(3)
The entity selected under paragraph (1) of this subsection may work directly with collaboratives to support the development and implementation of grow–your–own teacher preparation programs.
(b)
The Department shall award a grant to a local school system that is part of a collaborative for employees of the local school system to complete a pathway to teacher licensure under the agreement described in § 18–27A–03 of this subtitle.
(c)
The Department shall award a grant to a local school system for:
(1)
Tuition, books, and fees for teacher candidates;
(2)
Stipends for mentor teachers; and
(3)
Costs associated with the administration of the Program.
(d)
(1)
Grants shall be awarded on a competitive basis.
(2)
In awarding a grant, the Department shall prioritize collaboratives that partner with institutions of higher education offering to negotiate a lower tuition cost for teacher candidates.
(e)
The Department may award a grant to a collaborative formed between at least one local school system and one employee organization representing employees of a local school system in accordance with Title 6, Subtitle 4 or Subtitle 5 of this article, if the collaborative uses a program model that allows candidates to complete coursework that does not require enrollment in an institution of higher education.
(f)
(1)
This subsection applies only to collaboratives that implement a registered teacher apprenticeship program model under the Program.
(2)
In awarding a grant under this subsection, the Department shall prioritize collaboratives that:
(i)
Are composed of a group of more than one local school system and more than one employee organization representing employees of a local system in accordance with Title 6, Subtitle 4 or Subtitle 5 of this article; and
(ii)
Implement a registered teacher apprenticeship program to be administered by the Department with a standardized curriculum that promotes on–the–job experiential learning to be leveraged across the State.
(3)
An institution of higher education in the State may provide related instruction for a registered teacher apprenticeship program under this subsection through a competitive bidding process.
(g)
(1)
A teacher candidate shall be paid a rate of pay and offered benefits that are at least equal to the rate of pay received by and benefits offered to a noncertified education support professional or provisional teacher of the equivalent classification and tenure in the local school system provided in the collective bargaining agreement.
(2)
(i)
This paragraph does not apply to a provisional teacher.
(ii)
Except as provided in subparagraph (iii) of this paragraph, a teacher candidate may not serve as a teacher of record or a substitute teacher for any teacher other than the mentor teacher assigned to the teacher candidate.
(iii)
A teacher candidate may serve as a daily substitute teacher if:
(1)
The teacher candidate does so in accordance with the collective bargaining agreement of the local school system;
(2)
The teacher candidate agrees to the assignment;
(3)
The teacher candidate’s mentor approves of the assignment; and
(4)
The principal of the school in which the teacher candidate is employed approves of the assignment.
(h)
A local school system may not reduce the compensation or benefits of a teacher candidate.
(i)
A local school system and an employee organization that represents the teacher candidates shall negotiate a gradual release model that allows teacher candidates to focus primarily on internship and practicum requirements, if applicable.
(j)
A teacher candidate shall perform a service obligation to teach full–time in the State in a public school or a public prekindergarten program in a content area in which there is a shortage of qualified educators, as identified by the Department for a minimum of 2 years.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-27A-05 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 27A. Grow Your Own Educators Grant Program
§ 18–27A-05LinkCopy Citation
The Governor may include in the annual budget bill an appropriation for the Program.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-27A-06 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 27A. Grow Your Own Educators Grant Program
§ 18–27A-06LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Each year, the Department shall collect:
(1)
Data on teacher candidate race, gender, and linguistic status;
(2)
Data on teacher candidate status and retention;
(3)
Spending by category;
(4)
A summary of teacher candidate recruitment methods; and
(5)
If applicable, the hiring status and retention data of Program graduates.
(b)
(1)
On or before July 1, 2026, and each July 1 thereafter, the Department shall report on the data collected under subsection (a) of this section to the General Assembly, in accordance with § 2–1257 of the State Government Article.
(2)
In issuing reports under this section, the Department shall make reasonable efforts to anonymize the data to protect the privacy of teacher candidates.
Subtitle 28A. Maryland Loan Assistance Repayment Program for Farmers
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-28A-01 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 28A. Maryland Loan Assistance Repayment Program for Farmers
§ 18–28A-01LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)
“Department” means the Department of Agriculture.
(c)
“Higher education loan” means a loan that is obtained for tuition, education expenses, or living expenses for undergraduate or graduate study leading to a degree in agriculture or an agriculture–related field, including farming.
(d)
“Program” means the Maryland Loan Assistance Repayment Program for Farmers.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-28A-02 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 28A. Maryland Loan Assistance Repayment Program for Farmers
§ 18–28A-02LinkCopy Citation
(a)
There is a Maryland Loan Assistance Repayment Program for Farmers in the State.
(b)
The Office shall assist in the repayment of a higher education loan owed by a farmer who:
(1)
Has received an undergraduate or graduate degree in agriculture or an agriculture–related field from a public or private nonprofit institution of higher education located in the State;
(2)
Has been a farmer for at least 5 years but not more than 10 years since obtaining the degree;
(3)
Receives an income that is less than the maximum eligible total income levels established by the Office, in consultation with the Department, including any additional sources of income; and
(4)
Satisfies any other criteria established by the Office.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-28A-03 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 28A. Maryland Loan Assistance Repayment Program for Farmers
§ 18–28A-03LinkCopy Citation
The Office, in consultation with the Department, shall adopt regulations to establish:
(1)
The maximum starting income for eligibility in the Program;
(2)
The maximum total income for eligibility in the Program, including any additional sources of income;
(3)
That priority for participation in the Program shall be given to a farmer who:
(i)
Graduated from an institution of higher education in the State in the last 10 years;
(ii)
Is employed as a farmer on a full–time basis; and
(iii)
As determined by the Department in consultation with the Department of the Environment, uses sustainable agricultural techniques and demonstrates environmental stewardship;
(4)
A limit on the total amount of assistance provided by the Office in repaying the higher education loan of a farmer, based on the farmer’s total income and outstanding higher education loan balance;
(5)
A procedure and schedule for the payment of the amount of loan assistance provided by the Office to the farmer; and
(6)
An annual review of the eligibility of each farmer participating in the Program.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-28A-04 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 28A. Maryland Loan Assistance Repayment Program for Farmers
§ 18–28A-04LinkCopy Citation
Funds for the Program shall be provided on an annual basis in the State budget.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-28A-05 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 28A. Maryland Loan Assistance Repayment Program for Farmers
§ 18–28A-05LinkCopy Citation
As part of the annual report required under § 18–1505 of this title, the Office shall include information regarding implementation of the Program, including:
(1)
The amount of money allocated for the Program;
(2)
The number of awards made and amounts of the awards; and
(3)
The number of applicants denied an award.
Subtitle 29. Maryland First Scholarship
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-2901 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 29. Maryland First Scholarship
§ 18–2901LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
(2)
“Eligible institution” means a public or private nonprofit institution of higher education in the State that possesses a certificate of approval from the Commission.
(3)
“First–generation student” means a student whose parents have not earned a degree from an institution of higher education.
(4)
“Fund” means the Maryland First Scholarship Fund.
(5)
“Scholarship” means the Maryland First Scholarship.
(b)
There is a Maryland First Scholarship.
(c)
An individual may apply to the Office for the scholarship if the individual:
(1)
Is a resident of the State;
(2)
(i)
Is accepted for admission or enrolled in the regular undergraduate program at an eligible institution; or
(ii)
Is accepted for admission or enrolled in a 2–year terminal certificate program in which the course work is acceptable for transfer credit for an accredited baccalaureate program in an eligible institution;
(3)
(i)
Except as provided in item (ii) of this paragraph, attained a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale or its equivalent at the end of the first semester of the senior year of high school; or
(ii)
Has completed 40 hours of verifiable community service in the year before applying for the scholarship if the individual graduated from high school more than 4 years prior to enrolling in an eligible institution;
(4)
Demonstrates financial need;
(5)
Is a first–generation student; and
(6)
Meets any other criteria established by the Office.
(d)
In addition to providing any other information the Office requires, each applicant shall describe the types of community service completed during high school or in the year before applying for the scholarship.
(e)
A scholarship awarded under this section:
(1)
May be used for the tuition and mandatory fees and room and board for on–campus housing at any eligible institution; and
(2)
May be in an annual amount up to:
(i)
50% of the tuition and mandatory fees charged to the recipient if the recipient is enrolled as an undergraduate student at a 4–year public eligible institution;
(ii)
75% of the tuition and mandatory fees charged to the recipient if the recipient is enrolled at a 2–year public eligible institution;
(iii)
50% of the annual average tuition and mandatory fees of a resident undergraduate student at the 4–year public institutions of higher education within the University System of Maryland, other than the University of Maryland Global Campus and University of Maryland, Baltimore Campus, if the recipient is enrolled at a 4–year private nonprofit eligible institution; or
(iv)
75% of the annual average out–of–county tuition and mandatory fees of a student at the 2–year public institutions if the recipient is enrolled in a 2–year terminal certificate program under subsection (c)(2)(ii) of this section.
(f)
Each scholarship recipient shall maintain a grade point average of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale to be determined at the end of the academic year during which the recipient held the award and before the recipient’s reenrollment for the next academic year.
(g)
Subject to subsection (f) of this section, each scholarship recipient may hold the award for:
(1)
5 years of full–time study or 8 years of part–time study at a 4–year eligible institution; or
(2)
3 years of full–time study or 4 years of part–time study at a 2–year eligible institution.
(h)
A scholarship applicant or recipient shall file for federal and State financial aid by March 1 of each year.
(i)
(1)
There is a Maryland First Scholarship Fund in the Commission.
(2)
The purpose of the Fund is to provide money for scholarship awards under this section and for administrative expenses incurred by the Commission in making scholarship awards under this section.
(3)
The Commission shall administer the Fund.
(4)
The Fund is a special, nonlapsing fund that is not subject to § 7–302 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.
(5)
(i)
The State Treasurer shall hold the Fund separately and shall invest the money in the Fund in the same manner as other State money may be invested.
(ii)
Any investment earnings of the Fund shall be credited to the Fund.
(6)
The Comptroller shall account for the Fund.
(7)
The Commission:
(i)
May accept any gift or grant from any person for the Fund;
(ii)
Shall use any gift or grant that it receives for a scholarship from the Fund; and
(iii)
Shall deposit any gift or grant that it receives for the Fund with the State Treasurer.
(8)
The Fund consists of:
(i)
Money appropriated in the State budget to the Fund;
(ii)
Gifts or grants received by the Commission for the Fund;
(iii)
Investment earnings of the Fund; and
(iv)
Any other money from any other source accepted for the benefit of the Fund.
(9)
The Fund may be used only for:
(i)
Making scholarship awards under this section; and
(ii)
Administrative expenses incurred by the Commission in making scholarship awards under this section.
(10)
Money provided to the Fund that is not awarded by the end of the fiscal year shall remain in the Fund.
(11)
(i)
At the end of the fiscal year, the Commission shall prepare an annual report of the Fund that includes an accounting of all financial receipts and expenditures to and from the Fund.
(ii)
The Commission shall submit a copy of the report to the General Assembly in accordance with § 2–1257 of the State Government Article.
(j)
The Governor annually shall include funds in the State budget to be used to implement this section.
Subtitle 30. Maryland Technology Internship Program
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3001 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 30. Maryland Technology Internship Program
§ 18–3001LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)
“Program” means the Maryland Technology Internship Program.
(c)
“Technology–based business” means a commercial or industrial enterprise, or a nonprofit organization that is exempt from taxation under § 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, that is engaged in the application of scientific knowledge to practical purposes in a particular field.
(d)
“UMBC” means the University of Maryland Baltimore County.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3002 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 30. Maryland Technology Internship Program
§ 18–3002LinkCopy Citation
There is a Maryland Technology Internship Program.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3003 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 30. Maryland Technology Internship Program
§ 18–3003LinkCopy Citation
The purposes of the Program are to:
(1)
Connect college and university students, recent graduates, and veterans with small innovative businesses in the high–growth technology sector through internships;
(2)
Encourage high–achieving students at institutions of higher education in the State to remain in the State after graduation;
(3)
Increase student understanding of employment opportunities in the State;
(4)
Create connections between students and community business leaders and entrepreneurs and develop opportunities for student involvement in communities;
(5)
Assist small technology–based businesses in developing internship programs and recruiting future employees; and
(6)
Foster business retention and development, job creation, workforce development, and new investment in the State.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3004 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 30. Maryland Technology Internship Program
§ 18–3004LinkCopy Citation
(a)
UMBC shall administer the Program.
(b)
To carry out the purposes of the Program, UMBC, in collaboration with the Department of Commerce, shall:
(1)
Utilize an Internet site through which:
(i)
Students may learn about technology–based businesses, technology–based positions in units of State and local governments, and internship opportunities;
(ii)
Technology–based businesses may register, post information about internship opportunities, and apply for reimbursement of internship stipends as provided under this subtitle; and
(iii)
Units of State and local governments may register, post information about technology–based internship opportunities, and apply for reimbursement of internship stipends as provided under this subtitle;
(2)
Develop application and registration requirements;
(3)
Develop orientation and training programs for participants in the Program;
(4)
Review applications and award reimbursements of internship stipends under this subtitle;
(5)
Provide opportunities for students to meet entrepreneurs, visit technology–related industry incubators, and learn about starting a business in the State;
(6)
Provide recruitment and training opportunities and support for participating businesses and units of State and local government; and
(7)
Track and assess Program outcomes.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3005 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 30. Maryland Technology Internship Program
§ 18–3005LinkCopy Citation
To qualify for participation in the Program, an individual shall:
(1)
(i)
(1)
Be a student enrolled at a public or private nonprofit institution of higher education in the State that possesses a certificate of approval from the Commission; and
(2)
Maintain a cumulative 2.5 grade point average on a 4.0 scale each academic year;
(ii)
(1)
Within 12 months before the date of application for the Program, have graduated from a public or private nonprofit institution of higher education in the State that possesses a certificate of approval from the Commission; and
(2)
Have maintained a cumulative 2.5 grade point average on a 4.0 scale during the latest academic year the individual was enrolled as a student;
(iii)
(1)
Be a student enrolled at a public or private nonprofit institution of higher education outside the State, if the student graduated from a high school in the State; and
(2)
Maintain a cumulative 2.5 grade point average on a 4.0 scale each academic year; or
(iv)
(1)
Have been honorably discharged from the uniformed services or a reserve component within 18 months of the date of application;
(2)
Be a resident of Maryland; and
(3)
Have graduated from a public or private nonprofit institution of higher education;
(2)
Commit to working a minimum of 120 hours during a spring, fall, or summer semester;
(3)
Attend an orientation session provided or approved by UMBC; and
(4)
Meet any other criteria established by UMBC.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3006 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 30. Maryland Technology Internship Program
§ 18–3006LinkCopy Citation
(a)
To qualify for participation in the Program, a business shall:
(1)
Be located in the State;
(2)
Be a technology–based business;
(3)
Commit to hosting an intern for a minimum of 120 hours during a spring, fall, or summer semester;
(4)
Provide a detailed description of an intern position with the business; and
(5)
Provide proof that a representative has attended an orientation or training program provided or approved by UMBC.
(b)
To qualify for participation in the Program, a unit of State or local government shall:
(1)
Commit to hosting an intern for a minimum of 120 hours during a spring, fall, or summer semester;
(2)
Provide a detailed description of a technology–based intern position with the unit; and
(3)
Provide proof that a representative has attended an orientation or training program provided or approved by UMBC.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3007 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 30. Maryland Technology Internship Program
§ 18–3007LinkCopy Citation
(a)
UMBC shall develop a process for tracking and assessing the outcomes of the Program, including:
(1)
The total number of individuals, businesses, and units of State and local governments participating in the Program;
(2)
The locations and sizes of participating businesses and units of State and local governments;
(3)
The number of participating students remaining in the State after graduation;
(4)
The number of employee hires resulting from internships;
(5)
The effect of the Program on student understanding of opportunities for entrepreneurs and small businesses in the State;
(6)
Student skill growth resulting from internship experiences;
(7)
Business growth or improvement resulting from internships; and
(8)
The effect of the Program on relationships between businesses and institutions of higher education in the State.
(b)
UMBC shall obtain feedback from Program participants:
(1)
At the conclusion of any orientation or training program;
(2)
At the conclusion of each internship; and
(3)
At the following intervals after the conclusion of each internship:
(i)
3 months;
(ii)
6 months;
(iii)
1 year;
(iv)
2 years; and
(v)
3 years.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3008 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 30. Maryland Technology Internship Program
§ 18–3008LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Subject to subsections (b) and (c) of this section, money awarded under this subtitle:
(1)
May be used to reimburse a technology–based business or a unit of State or local government up to 50% of a stipend paid to an intern, but not more than:
(i)
$1,800 for the first semester; and
(ii)
$1,200 for the second semester; and
(2)
May total not more than $3,000 each year for each intern.
(b)
The maximum reimbursement amounts established in subsection (a) of this section may be increased in accordance with changes in employment market conditions as jointly determined by UMBC and the Department of Commerce.
(c)
At least 50% of the internships supported by the Program each year shall be with businesses that have not more than 150 employees.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3010 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 30. Maryland Technology Internship Program
§ 18–3010LinkCopy Citation
The Governor annually shall include funds in the State budget for:
(1)
The reimbursement of internship stipends under this subtitle; and
(2)
UMBC to administer the Program.
Subtitle 31. Montgomery County Student Loan Refinancing Authority
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3101 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 31. Montgomery County Student Loan Refinancing Authority
§ 18–3101LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In accordance with this subtitle, Montgomery County is authorized to create a body corporate and politic to be known as the Montgomery County Student Loan Refinancing Authority.
(b)
The purpose of the Authority is to provide a system of financial assistance consisting of affordable grants, loans, and other aids to enable Montgomery County residents, graduates of the county public school system, individuals employed by the county government or public school system, and other individuals as determined by the Authority, to obtain a postsecondary education.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3102 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 31. Montgomery County Student Loan Refinancing Authority
§ 18–3102LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Before Montgomery County may establish the Montgomery County Student Loan Refinancing Authority, the county shall:
(1)
Study aspects of implementing the Authority in accordance with State and county law, including:
(i)
Performing a feasibility and demand study;
(ii)
Assessing the potential benefit to recruitment and retention of county and school system employees; and
(iii)
Studying the operation of similar programs in other systems, including operating costs;
(2)
Hold public hearings; and
(3)
Provide an opportunity for public comment.
(b)
If Montgomery County decides to establish the Authority as authorized in § 18–3101 of this subtitle, the county’s governing body must pass an ordinance that creates the Authority in accordance with this subtitle.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3103 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 31. Montgomery County Student Loan Refinancing Authority
§ 18–3103LinkCopy Citation
(a)
If Montgomery County establishes the Montgomery County Student Loan Refinancing Authority, the Authority shall meet the requirements of this section.
(b)
The Montgomery County Student Loan Refinancing Authority shall be subject to:
(1)
The Montgomery County public ethics law; and
(2)
The Open Meetings Act under Title 3 of the General Provisions Article.
(c)
If the Montgomery County Student Loan Refinancing Authority is granted the power to issue bonds for the purpose of making loans to finance postsecondary education, any bonds issued by the Authority shall be obligations of the Authority only and not of Montgomery County or the State.
(d)
The provisions of the Montgomery County Charter do not apply to the Authority unless the governing body of Montgomery County expressly provides by law that a charter provision applies to the Authority.
Subtitle 32. Maryland Loan Assistance Repayment Program for Foster Care Recipients
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3201 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 32. Maryland Loan Assistance Repayment Program for Foster Care Recipients
§ 18–3201LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)
“Foster care recipient” means an individual who was placed in an out–of–home placement by a state’s or unit of a state government’s department of social services for 3 years or more.
(c)
“Higher education loan” means any loan for undergraduate or graduate study that is obtained for tuition, educational expenses, or living expenses from:
(1)
An institution of higher education, government, or commercial source; or
(2)
An organization, an institution, an association, a society, or a corporation that is exempt from taxation under § 501(c)(3) or (4) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.
(d)
“Program” means the Maryland Loan Assistance Repayment Program for Foster Care Recipients.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3202 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 32. Maryland Loan Assistance Repayment Program for Foster Care Recipients
§ 18–3202LinkCopy Citation
(a)
There is a Maryland Loan Assistance Repayment Program for Foster Care Recipients in the State.
(b)
The Office shall assist in the repayment of higher education loans owed by a foster care recipient who:
(1)
Is employed for a minimum of 20 hours per week by the State or a county or municipality of the State;
(2)
Received an undergraduate or a graduate degree from an institution of higher education in the State; and
(3)
Meets any other requirement established by the Office.
(c)
An applicant for assistance in the repayment of a commercial loan shall demonstrate to the Office that the commercial loan was used for tuition, educational expenses, or living expenses for undergraduate or graduate study.
(d)
Assistance in the repayment of a loan from an entity set forth in § 18–1601(c)(2) of this title shall require the approval of the Office.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3203 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 32. Maryland Loan Assistance Repayment Program for Foster Care Recipients
§ 18–3203LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Subject to the availability of funds appropriated under subsection (b) of this section, the award amount under the Program shall be equal to the lesser of:
(1)
$5,000; or
(2)
10% of the eligible individual’s total higher education loan debt for each year the individual qualifies for the Program.
(b)
The Governor annually shall include an appropriation of $100,000 in the State budget for the Commission to disburse assistance under this subtitle.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3204 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 32. Maryland Loan Assistance Repayment Program for Foster Care Recipients
§ 18–3204LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Each recipient of an award under the Program may hold the award for 3 years if the recipient:
(1)
Continues to meet the qualifications specified under § 18–3202 of this subtitle; and
(2)
Signs an agreement at the time of the award to remain employed by the State or a county or municipality of the State for at least 1 year after the expiration of the term of the award.
(b)
Each award under the Program shall be renewable on the expiration of the term of the award.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3205 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 32. Maryland Loan Assistance Repayment Program for Foster Care Recipients
§ 18–3205LinkCopy Citation
An award under the Program shall be used only for repayment of the higher education loans owed by the recipient.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3206 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 32. Maryland Loan Assistance Repayment Program for Foster Care Recipients
§ 18–3206LinkCopy Citation
The Office shall adopt regulations to implement the provisions of this subtitle.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3207 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 32. Maryland Loan Assistance Repayment Program for Foster Care Recipients
§ 18–3207LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Department of Budget and Management shall provide to State employees information about the Program.
(b)
The local governing body of each county and municipality of the State shall provide their employees with information about the Program.
Subtitle 33. Workforce Development Sequence Scholarships
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3301 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 33. Workforce Development Sequence Scholarships
§ 18–3301LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)
“Eligible student” means a student who is a Maryland resident, or has graduated from a Maryland high school, and:
(1)
Is enrolled in a Workforce Development Sequence at a public community college in the State; or
(2)
Is enrolled directly in a registered apprenticeship program that partners with a public community college in the State.
(c)
(1)
“Workforce Development Sequence” means:
(i)
A program offered by a community college that is approved by the Commission and is composed of courses that are related to:
(1)
Job preparation or an apprenticeship;
(2)
Licensure or certification; or
(3)
Job skill enhancement; or
(ii)
A registered apprenticeship program approved by the Division of Workforce Development and Adult Learning in the Maryland Department of Labor.
(2)
“Workforce Development Sequence” does not include a sequence of courses leading to an associate’s or bachelor’s degree.
(d)
“Workforce Development Sequence Scholarship” means an award made to an eligible student under this subtitle.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3302 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 33. Workforce Development Sequence Scholarships
§ 18–3302LinkCopy Citation
There is a Workforce Development Sequence Scholarship administered by the Office.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3303 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 33. Workforce Development Sequence Scholarships
§ 18–3303LinkCopy Citation
(a)
An individual may apply to the Office for a scholarship under this section if the individual is an eligible student.
(b)
An eligible student who receives a Workforce Development Sequence Scholarship under this subtitle may use the award for tuition, mandatory fees, other associated costs of attendance, or costs to participate in a registered apprenticeship program.
(c)
The annual amount of a scholarship awarded to an eligible student may not exceed $2,000.
(d)
The Governor shall provide in the annual budget an appropriation of at least $1,000,000 to the Commission for the Workforce Development Sequence Scholarship.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3304 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 33. Workforce Development Sequence Scholarships
§ 18–3304LinkCopy Citation
On or before December 1 each year, the Commission shall report to the General Assembly, in accordance with § 2–1257 of the State Government Article, on:
(1)
The number of students who received a Workforce Development Sequence Scholarship;
(2)
The amount of the award made to each recipient;
(3)
The community college that the recipient attended;
(4)
The workforce development sequence in which the recipient enrolled; and
(5)
The registered apprenticeship program in which the recipient participated.
Subtitle 34. Howard County Student Loan Assistance Repayment Program for Teachers
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3401 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 34. Howard County Student Loan Assistance Repayment Program for Teachers
§ 18–3401LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)
“Higher education loan” means any loan for undergraduate or graduate study that is obtained for tuition, educational expenses, or living expenses from:
(1)
A college or university, government, or commercial source; or
(2)
An organization, an institution, an association, a society, or a corporation that is exempt from taxation under § 501(c)(3) or (4) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.
(c)
“Program” means the Howard County Student Loan Assistance Repayment Program for Teachers.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3402 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 34. Howard County Student Loan Assistance Repayment Program for Teachers
§ 18–3402LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In Howard County, the governing body of the county may establish a Student Loan Assistance Repayment Program for Teachers employed by the Howard County Public School System.
(b)
The purpose of the Program is to attract, recruit, and retain a diverse cadre of qualified teachers in the Howard County Public School System that is reflective of the student population within the county schools.
(c)
Subject to subsection (d) of this section, the county shall assist in the repayment of higher education loans owed by an individual who:
(1)
Receives a graduate, professional, or undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university;
(2)
Obtains employment as a full–time teacher in the Howard County Public School System;
(3)
Commits to teach in the Howard County Public School System for a period of not less than 5 years;
(4)
Receives an income that is less than the maximum eligible total income levels established by the county, including any additional sources of income;
(5)
Is not in default on any student loan; and
(6)
Satisfies any other criteria established under the Program by the county.
(d)
An applicant for assistance in the repayment of a commercial loan shall demonstrate to the county that the commercial loan was used for tuition, educational expenses, or living expenses for graduate or undergraduate study.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3403 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 34. Howard County Student Loan Assistance Repayment Program for Teachers
§ 18–3403LinkCopy Citation
Loan assistance under the Program shall be in the amount and on the terms and conditions established by the county.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3404 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 34. Howard County Student Loan Assistance Repayment Program for Teachers
§ 18–3404LinkCopy Citation
The Program shall be administered by the Howard County Public School System.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3405 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 34. Howard County Student Loan Assistance Repayment Program for Teachers
§ 18–3405LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Funds for the Program shall be as provided on an annual basis in the county budget in an appropriation separate from the county’s appropriation to the operating budget of the Howard County Board of Education.
(b)
Funds for the Program may be used to cover administrative expenses of the Program.
Subtitle 35. Cybersecurity Public Service Scholarship Program
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3501 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 35. Cybersecurity Public Service Scholarship Program
§ 18–3501LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)
“Eligible institution” means a public or private nonprofit institution of higher education in the State that:
(1)
Possesses a certificate of approval from the Commission; or
(2)
Is approved under operation of law.
(c)
“Program” means the Cybersecurity Public Service Scholarship Program.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3502 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 35. Cybersecurity Public Service Scholarship Program
§ 18–3502LinkCopy Citation
(a)
There is a scholarship program known as the Cybersecurity Public Service Scholarship Program in the State.
(b)
The purpose of the Program is to support students who are pursuing an education in programs that are directly relevant to cybersecurity.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3503 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 35. Cybersecurity Public Service Scholarship Program
§ 18–3503LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Office shall administer the Program.
(b)
An individual may apply to the Office for a scholarship under this subtitle if the individual:
(1)
Is eligible for in–State tuition;
(2)
Except as provided in subsection (f) of this section, is a student who:
(i)
Is enrolled full–time at an eligible institution in an approved degree or certificate program that is directly relevant to cybersecurity; and
(ii)
Is within 3 years of graduation from the individual’s degree or certificate program;
(3)
Has maintained a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale; and
(4)
(i)
Has not received a federal CyberCorps Scholarship for Service; or
(ii)
Has applied for but has not received a federal CyberCorps Scholarship for Service.
(c)
A scholarship award under this subtitle may be used at any eligible institution to pay for education expenses as defined by the Office, including:
(1)
Tuition and mandatory fees; and
(2)
Room and board.
(d)
A scholarship recipient shall maintain a grade point average of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
(e)
Except as provided in subsection (f) of this section, each recipient of a scholarship under this subtitle may hold the award for 3 years of full–time study.
(f)
(1)
Beginning with the 2023–2024 Program application period, a part–time student may apply to the Office for a scholarship under this subtitle in accordance with regulations adopted by the Office.
(2)
Each recipient of a scholarship under this subtitle may hold the award for 6 years if the recipient:
(i)
Is a part–time student;
(ii)
Continues to be eligible for in–State tuition under this article; and
(iii)
Continues to be a student at the institution and takes at least 6 semester hours of courses each semester leading to a degree or certificate that is directly relevant to cybersecurity.
(3)
The Office shall determine an award amount that is appropriately prorated for the part–time status of the student.
(4)
On or before January 1, 2023, the Office shall adopt regulations to administer the Program for part–time students.
(g)
The Department shall provide information on the Program to high school students who participate in career and technology education programs related to cybersecurity.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3504 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 35. Cybersecurity Public Service Scholarship Program
§ 18–3504LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, for 1 year for each year that the recipient receives a scholarship under this subtitle, a scholarship recipient shall:
(i)
Work in the State in the cybersecurity field for a:
(B)
Public high school; or
(C)
Community college; or
(2)
Unit of:
(A)
State government;
(B)
County government; or
(C)
City or municipal government; or
(ii)
Teach in the State in an education program that is directly relevant to cybersecurity in:
(1)
A public high school; or
(2)
A community college.
(2)
(i)
Subject to subparagraphs (ii) and (iii) of this paragraph, the Office shall adopt guidelines on or before January 1, 2023, establishing a work obligation, appropriately prorated, for a scholarship recipient who receives a scholarship as a part–time student.
(ii)
The work obligation for a part–time student shall equal the amount of time needed for an equivalent full–time student to complete the certification.
(iii)
The work obligation for a part–time student may not exceed 3 years.
(b)
In accordance with § 18–112 of this title, a scholarship recipient shall repay the Commission the funds received under this subtitle if the recipient does not:
(1)
Earn credit as a full–time student as defined in regulations adopted by the Office for the Program or as a part–time student as required in § 18–3503(f) of this subtitle;
(2)
Complete an approved degree or certificate program that is directly relevant to cybersecurity at an eligible institution; and
(3)
Perform the work obligation required under subsection (a) of this section.
(c)
Except as otherwise provided in this section, a recipient shall begin repayment at any time during the period that the recipient is no longer performing the work obligation required under subsection (a) of this section.
(d)
Except as otherwise provided in this section, repayment shall be made to the State within 6 years after the repayment period begins and shall follow a repayment schedule established by the Office.
(e)
The Office may waive or defer repayment in the event of disability or extended sickness that prevents the recipient from fulfilling the work obligation required under subsection (a) of this section.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3505 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 35. Cybersecurity Public Service Scholarship Program
§ 18–3505LinkCopy Citation
Funds for the Program shall be as provided in the annual budget of the Commission by the Governor.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3506 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 35. Cybersecurity Public Service Scholarship Program
§ 18–3506LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Office shall adopt regulations to implement this subtitle.
(b)
The regulations adopted under subsection (a) of this section shall:
(1)
Identify the programs that meet the requirements of § 18–3503(b)(2) of this subtitle; and
(2)
Define the number of credits a scholarship recipient must earn as a student.
Subtitle 36. Maryland Community College Promise Scholarships
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3601 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 36. Maryland Community College Promise Scholarships
§ 18–3601LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)
“Annual adjusted gross income” means the total of the combined adjusted gross income of the applicant and the applicant’s parents, or the applicant and the applicant’s spouse if the applicant is married, as reported on the most recent federal or State income tax return.
(c)
“Award” means a scholarship award from the Maryland Community College Promise Scholarship.
(d)
“Community college” includes Baltimore City Community College.
(e)
“Local promise scholarship” means a community college scholarship program in effect on July 1, 2018, that provides a scholarship to any high school senior who is eligible for enrollment at the community college.
(f)
(1)
“Tuition” means the basic instructional charge for courses offered at a community college.
(2)
“Tuition” includes any fees for:
(i)
Registration;
(ii)
Application;
(iii)
Administration;
(iv)
Laboratory work; and
(v)
Other mandatory fees.
(3)
“Tuition” does not include:
(i)
Costs associated with the parts of a registered apprenticeship that take place at a location that is not a community college; or
(ii)
Any fees for room and board that are related to an on–campus residential facility for students.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3602 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 36. Maryland Community College Promise Scholarships
§ 18–3602LinkCopy Citation
(a)
There is a program of Maryland Community College Promise Scholarships in the State that are awarded under this subtitle.
(b)
The purpose of the program is to provide tuition assistance for students to attend a community college in the State.
(c)
The Office and each community college shall publicize the availability of Maryland Community College Promise Scholarships.
(d)
(1)
The Office shall allocate Maryland Community College Promise Scholarship funding to each community college in the State based on the proportion of Pell–eligible students at each community college for each community college to award Maryland Community College Promise Scholarship awards to students.
(2)
If a community college does not award all funding allocated to the community college under paragraph (1) of this subsection, the community college shall distribute the remaining funding to other community colleges to make Maryland Community College Promise Scholarship awards to students in the award year.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3603 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 36. Maryland Community College Promise Scholarships
§ 18–3603LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
(i)
Subject to subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, a student may apply annually to a Maryland community college located in the county or, in the case of a regional community college, in the region where the applicant lives to receive a Maryland Community College Promise Scholarship award.
(ii)
If the community college located in the county or region where the applicant lives does not offer the degree or certification program in which the applicant wants to enroll, the student may apply to the community college outside the county or, in the case of a regional community college, outside the region where the applicant lives to receive a Maryland Community College Promise Scholarship award.
(2)
A community college annually shall select eligible applicants and offer a Maryland Community College Promise Scholarship award to each selected applicant to be used for tuition at the community college.
(b)
An applicant is eligible for a Maryland Community College Promise Scholarship award if the applicant:
(1)
Is eligible for in–State tuition;
(2)
(i)
Enrolls at:
(1)
The community college located in the county where the applicant lives;
(2)
The regional community college located in the region where the applicant lives; or
(3)
A community college in the State that has an on–campus residential facility for students; and
(ii)
(1)
Enrolls as a candidate for a vocational certificate, a certificate, or an associate’s degree or participates in a registered apprenticeship after graduating from a high school or successfully completing a GED in the State; or
(2)
(A)
Enrolls as a candidate for a vocational certificate, a certificate, or an associate’s degree or participates in a registered apprenticeship after graduating from Delmar High School in Delmar, Delaware; and
(B)
Is a resident of Delmar, Maryland;
(3)
Except as provided in subsection (c)(3) and (4)(i) of this section, has earned a cumulative grade point average of:
(i)
For an initial award, at least 2.3 on a 4.0 scale or its equivalent at the end of the first semester or the end of the year of the senior year in high school; or
(ii)
While enrolled at a community college in the State, at least 2.5 on a 4.0 scale or its equivalent;
(4)
Has an annual adjusted gross income of not more than:
(i)
$100,000 if the applicant is single or resides in a single–parent household; or
(ii)
$150,000 if the applicant is married or resides in a two–parent household;
(5)
(i)
Enrolls in:
(1)
At least 6 credits per semester at the community college; or
(2)
A sequence of credit or noncredit courses that leads to licensure or certification; or
(ii)
Participates in a registered apprenticeship program; and
(6)
(i)
Timely submits a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or any other applications for any State or federal student financial aid, other than a student loan, for which the applicant may qualify; or
(ii)
Is ineligible to submit a FAFSA, qualifies for in–State tuition under § 15–106.8 of this article, and timely submits an application for any State student financial aid, other than a student loan, for which the applicant may qualify.
(c)
(1)
An applicant who receives any other educational grants or scholarships that cover the applicant’s full cost of attendance at the community college is ineligible to receive an award under this subtitle.
(2)
An applicant who has earned a bachelor’s degree or an associate’s degree is ineligible to receive an award under this subtitle.
(3)
An applicant who graduated from high school 5 or more years before the date of application is not subject to the grade point average requirements established in subsection (b)(3)(i) of this section for an initial award.
(4)
An applicant who enrolls in a noncredit vocational certificate program, enrolls in a sequence of noncredit courses leading to licensure or certification, or participates in a registered apprenticeship program:
(i)
Is not subject to the grade point average requirements in subsection (b)(3) of this section; and
(ii)
Is not subject to the requirements in subsection (b)(6) of this section, unless the applicant is enrolling in a noncredit program for which a federal Pell Grant may be used.
(d)
On request the community college shall assist an applicant to submit a FAFSA or any other applications for State or federal student financial aid.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3603.1 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 36. Maryland Community College Promise Scholarships
§ 18–3603.1LinkCopy Citation
(a)
A community college shall verify the eligibility of an applicant for a Maryland Community College Promise Scholarship award in accordance with this section.
(b)
(1)
A community college shall:
(i)
Verify that an applicant qualifies for a Maryland Community College Promise Scholarship award under the requirements of § 18–3603 of this subtitle;
(ii)
Evaluate the applicant’s income eligibility using federal standards for verification and in accordance with income eligibility criteria established by the Office;
(iii)
Maintain records used by the community college to determine the eligibility of applicants for not less than a period of 5 years after the end date of the award year associated with the student’s last award; and
(iv)
Provide the Commission with an audit, in accordance with rules adopted by the Commission, to show that awards verified and administered under this section have been made properly.
(2)
A verification obtained by an applicant under paragraph (1)(i) of this subsection may be used at another community college.
(c)
(1)
The Office shall review the audit provided to the Commission under subsection (b)(1)(iv) of this section not less than once every 3 years to verify that recipients met the eligibility requirements for an award.
(2)
(i)
If the Office determines that a community college made an incorrect award to an ineligible student, the community college shall remit to the Commission the total amount of the award made in error.
(ii)
The Commission shall pay all amounts received under subparagraph (i) of this paragraph to the Need–based Student Financial Assistance Fund under § 18–107 of this title.
(iii)
The community college may not require a student to repay the community college for an incorrect award made from the Maryland Community College Promise Scholarship.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3604 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 36. Maryland Community College Promise Scholarships
§ 18–3604LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Beginning in the 2019–2020 academic year, the annual scholarship award shall be not more than $5,000 per recipient, or actual tuition, whichever is less.
(b)
(1)
Except as provided in paragraph (3) of this subsection, any State or federal student financial aid, other than a student loan, received by the recipient shall be credited to the recipient’s tuition before the calculation of any award amount provided under this subtitle.
(2)
(i)
(1)
Initial scholarship awards shall be provided to recipients based on greatest demonstrated financial need.
(2)
Priority for scholarship awards in subsequent years shall be given to:
(A)
Prior year recipients who remain eligible for the program;
(B)
All eligible students who are enrolled in at least 12 credits per semester, or enrolled in a sequence of credit or noncredit courses that lead to licensure or certification; and
(C)
If any funds remain to be allocated, students enrolled in at least 6 credits per semester.
(3)
Notwithstanding § 18–3603(b) of this subtitle, an eligible recipient who does not receive an award under this subparagraph due to insufficient funding of the program remains eligible for the program the following academic year.
(ii)
Eligible applicants who do not receive an award under this subtitle shall be notified and placed on a waiting list.
(3)
If a recipient is eligible for a local promise scholarship, an award provided under this subtitle shall be credited to the recipient’s tuition before the award of the local promise scholarship.
(c)
(1)
Subject to paragraphs (2) and (3) of this subsection, each recipient may hold the award until the earlier of:
(i)
3 years after first enrolling:
(1)
As a candidate for a noncredit vocational certificate;
(2)
In a sequence of credit or noncredit courses leading to licensure or certification;
(3)
In credit or noncredit courses that are required for participation in a registered apprenticeship program;
(4)
As a candidate for a certificate; or
(5)
As a full–time candidate for an associate’s degree at a community college in the State;
(ii)
6 years after first enrolling as a part–time candidate for an associate’s degree at a community college in the State; or
(iii)
The date that the individual is awarded an associate’s degree.
(2)
A community college may extend the duration of an award for an allowable interruption of study if the recipient provides to the community college satisfactory evidence of extenuating circumstances that prevent the recipient from continuous enrollment.
(3)
Each recipient may hold the award in accordance with paragraph (1) of this subsection only if the recipient:
(i)
Continues to be eligible for in–State tuition;
(ii)
(1)
Continues to enroll in and complete at least 6 credits per semester, or a sequence of credit or noncredit courses that leads to licensure or certification, or their equivalent, as determined by the community college; or
(2)
Continues to participate in a registered apprenticeship program;
(iii)
Maintains a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.5 on a 4.0 scale or its equivalent for the requisite credit–bearing coursework for the remainder of the award or, failing to do so, provides to the community college satisfactory evidence of extenuating circumstances;
(iv)
Makes satisfactory progress toward a vocational certificate, a certificate, or an associate’s degree;
(v)
Continues to meet the income limitations under § 18–3603(b)(4) of this subtitle; and
(vi)
Continues to timely submit an application under § 18–3603(b)(6) of this subtitle.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3605 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 36. Maryland Community College Promise Scholarships
§ 18–3605LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Through fiscal year 2025, the Governor shall include an annual appropriation of at least $15,000,000 in the State budget for the Commission to disburse Maryland Community College Promise Scholarships under this subtitle.
(b)
For fiscal year 2026 and each fiscal year thereafter, the Governor shall include an annual appropriation of at least $13,500,000 in the State budget for the Commission to disburse Maryland Community College Promise Scholarships under this subtitle.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3606 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 36. Maryland Community College Promise Scholarships
§ 18–3606LinkCopy Citation
The Commission shall adopt regulations necessary to implement the provisions of this subtitle.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3607 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 36. Maryland Community College Promise Scholarships
§ 18–3607LinkCopy Citation
On or before December 1, 2020, and each December 1 thereafter, the Commission shall report to the General Assembly, in accordance with § 2–1257 of the State Government Article, on the implementation of the Maryland Community College Promise Scholarship program, including:
(1)
The number of applicants who received a Maryland Community College Promise Scholarship in the academic year disaggregated by the community college at which the scholarship was used;
(2)
The number of scholarship recipients enrolled in an associate’s degree program;
(3)
The number of scholarship recipients enrolled in a vocational certificate program;
(4)
The number of scholarship recipients enrolled in a certificate program;
(5)
The amount of the award made to each scholarship recipient;
(6)
The number of eligible applicants, if any, who were placed on a waiting list and the amount of demonstrated financial need, in the aggregate, of those applicants;
(7)
The number of scholarship recipients who earned an associate’s degree within 2, 3, or 4 years after receiving an award;
(8)
The number of scholarship recipients who earned a vocational certificate within 1, 2, or 3 years after receiving an award;
(9)
The number of scholarship recipients who transferred to a 4–year institution in the State;
(10)
The number of scholarship recipients who received a baccalaureate degree after transferring to a 4–year institution in the State; and
(11)
The outreach activities made by the Commission for the scholarship.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3608 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 36. Maryland Community College Promise Scholarships
§ 18–3608LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Commission shall:
(1)
Contact each school counselor at each public high school in the State with information on the Maryland Community College Promise Scholarship, including the eligibility, availability, and deadlines for the scholarship; and
(2)
Post on the Commission’s website, in a readily accessible location, information on the Maryland Community College Promise Scholarship, including the eligibility, availability, and deadlines for the scholarship.
(b)
Each community college in the State shall post on the community college’s website, in a readily accessible location, information on the Maryland Community College Promise Scholarship, including the eligibility, availability, and deadlines for the scholarship.
Subtitle 37. Maryland Loan Assistance Repayment Program for Police Officers and Probation Agents
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3701 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 37. Maryland Loan Assistance Repayment Program for Police Officers and Probation Agents
§ 18–3701LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)
“Correctional officer” has the meaning stated in § 8–201 of the Correctional Services Article.
(c)
“Eligible employment” means to work as:
(1)
A police officer or correctional officer in the State for at least 2 years; or
(2)
A parole and probation agent, supervisor, or regional director in the State for at least 2 years.
(d)
“Higher education loan” means a loan that is obtained for tuition for undergraduate study.
(e)
“Police officer” has the meaning stated in § 3–201 of the Public Safety Article.
(f)
“Probation agent” means an individual serving as a parole and probation agent, supervisor, or regional administrator for the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services.
(g)
“Program” means the Maryland Loan Assistance Repayment Program for Police Officers, Probation Agents, and Correctional Officers.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3702 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 37. Maryland Loan Assistance Repayment Program for Police Officers and Probation Agents
§ 18–3702LinkCopy Citation
(a)
There is a Maryland Loan Assistance Repayment Program for Police Officers, Probation Agents, and Correctional Officers in the State.
(b)
The Office shall distribute funds from the Program to assist in the repayment of a higher education loan owed by a police officer, probation agent, or correctional officer who:
(1)
Receives a graduate, professional, or undergraduate degree from a public college or university in the State;
(2)
Obtains eligible employment; and
(3)
Satisfies any other criteria established by the Office.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3703 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 37. Maryland Loan Assistance Repayment Program for Police Officers and Probation Agents
§ 18–3703LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Office shall adopt regulations to carry out this subtitle.
(b)
The regulations shall include a limit on the total amount of assistance provided by the Office in repaying the loan of an eligible individual, based on the individual’s total income and outstanding higher education loan balance.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3704 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 37. Maryland Loan Assistance Repayment Program for Police Officers and Probation Agents
§ 18–3704LinkCopy Citation
(a)
For fiscal year 2025, the Governor shall include in the annual budget bill an appropriation of at least $500,000 for the Program.
(b)
For fiscal year 2026, the Governor shall include in the annual budget bill an appropriation of at least $2,000,000 for the Program.
(c)
For fiscal year 2027 and each fiscal year thereafter, the Governor shall include in the annual budget bill an appropriation of at least $500,000 for the Program.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3705 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 37. Maryland Loan Assistance Repayment Program for Police Officers and Probation Agents
§ 18–3705LinkCopy Citation
Subject to § 2–1257 of the State Government Article, the Office shall report to the General Assembly by January 1 each year on the implementation of the Program.
Subtitle 38. Maryland Police Officers and Probation Agents Scholarship Program
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3801 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 38. Maryland Police Officers and Probation Agents Scholarship Program
§ 18–3801LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)
“Correctional officer” has the meaning stated in § 8–201 of the Correctional Services Article.
(c)
“Eligible institution” means:
(1)
A public senior higher education institution in the State; or
(2)
A community college in the State.
(d)
“Police officer” has the meaning stated in § 3–201 of the Public Safety Article.
(e)
“Probation agent” means an individual serving as a parole and probation agent, supervisor, or regional administrator for the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services.
(f)
“Service obligation” means to work as a police officer, probation agent, or correctional officer in the State not less than 5 years during the 8–year period after graduation.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3802 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 38. Maryland Police Officers and Probation Agents Scholarship Program
§ 18–3802LinkCopy Citation
(a)
There is a Maryland Police Officers, Probation Agents, and Correctional Officers Scholarship Program.
(b)
The purpose of the program is to provide tuition assistance for students who are:
(1)
Attending an eligible institution and enrolled in a degree or certificate program that would further the student’s intent to become a police officer, probation agent, or correctional officer after graduation; or
(2)
Employed as a police officer, probation agent, or correctional officer, attending an eligible institution, and enrolled in a degree or certificate program that would further the police officer’s, probation officer’s, or correctional officer’s career.
(c)
The Office shall publicize the availability of the Maryland Police Officers, Probation Agents, and Correctional Officers Scholarship.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3803 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 38. Maryland Police Officers and Probation Agents Scholarship Program
§ 18–3803LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Each year, the Office shall select eligible students and offer a scholarship to each student selected to be used at an eligible institution of the student’s choice.
(b)
A recipient of the Maryland Police Officers, Probation Agents, and Correctional Officers Scholarship shall:
(1)
Be a Maryland resident or have graduated from a Maryland high school;
(2)
Be accepted for admission or currently enrolled at an eligible institution as a full–time or part–time undergraduate or graduate student pursuing a course of study, program, or certificate that would further the recipient’s career;
(3)
Sign a letter of intent to perform the service obligation on completion of the recipient’s required studies; and
(4)
Satisfy any additional criteria the Commission may establish.
(c)
A current police officer, probation agent, or correctional officer shall be eligible for a Maryland Police Officers, Probation Agents, and Correctional Officers Scholarship if they meet the eligibility criteria under subsection (b) of this section.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3804 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 38. Maryland Police Officers and Probation Agents Scholarship Program
§ 18–3804LinkCopy Citation
The recipient of a Maryland Police Officers, Probation Agents, and Correctional Officers Scholarship shall repay the Commission the funds received as set forth in § 18–112 of this title if the recipient does not:
(1)
Satisfy the degree or certificate requirements of the eligible course of study or program or fulfill other requirements as provided in this subtitle; or
(2)
Perform the service obligation to work as a police officer, probation agent, or correctional officer for at least 5 years during the 8–year period after graduation.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3805 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 38. Maryland Police Officers and Probation Agents Scholarship Program
§ 18–3805LinkCopy Citation
The annual scholarship award shall be 50% of the equivalent annual tuition and mandatory fees of a resident undergraduate student at the eligible institution.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3806 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 38. Maryland Police Officers and Probation Agents Scholarship Program
§ 18–3806LinkCopy Citation
(a)
For fiscal year 2025, the Governor shall include in the annual budget bill an appropriation of at least $500,000 to the Commission to award scholarships under this subtitle.
(b)
For fiscal year 2026, the Governor shall include in the annual budget bill an appropriation of at least $2,000,000 to the Commission to award scholarships under this subtitle.
(c)
For fiscal year 2027 and each fiscal year thereafter, the Governor shall include in the annual budget bill an appropriation of at least $500,000 to the Commission to award scholarships under this subtitle.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3807 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 38. Maryland Police Officers and Probation Agents Scholarship Program
§ 18–3807LinkCopy Citation
The Office shall:
(1)
Publicize the availability of Maryland Police Officers, Probation Agents, and Correctional Officers Scholarships; and
(2)
To the extent practicable, award scholarships under this subtitle in a manner that reflects ethnic, gender, racial, and geographic diversity.
Subtitle 39. Pilot Program for Human Services Careers Scholarship
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3901 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 39. Pilot Program for Human Services Careers Scholarship
§ 18–3901LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)
“Eligible county” means:
(1)
Baltimore City;
(2)
Baltimore County; or
(3)
Prince George’s County.
(c)
“Eligible institution” means a public higher education institution in the State.
(d)
“Scholarship” means the Pilot Program for Human Services Careers Scholarship established under this subtitle.
(e)
(1)
(i)
“Service obligation” means to work in a targeted position for a minimum period of time, as provided in subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, during the 8–year period immediately following the awarding of a Scholarship.
(ii)
The service obligation period shall be 15 months for each academic year that the Scholarship is awarded, regardless of the credit hours or semesters completed by the recipient during the academic year.
(2)
“Service obligation” includes work in a targeted position while a student is attending an eligible institution.
(f)
“Targeted positions” means the following positions in the Department of Human Services in an eligible county:
(1)
Child Support Specialist Series;
(2)
Family Investment Specialist Series;
(3)
Family Support Worker Series;
(4)
Family SVS Caseworker Series; and
(5)
Social Worker Series.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3902 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 39. Pilot Program for Human Services Careers Scholarship
§ 18–3902LinkCopy Citation
(a)
There is a Pilot Program for Human Services Careers Scholarship.
(b)
The purpose of the Scholarship is to provide tuition assistance to students who are enrolled in a program at an eligible institution that will enable the student to obtain a credential or degree that is necessary to work in or further a career in a targeted position in the Department of Human Services.
(c)
A Scholarship recipient shall:
(1)
Be a Maryland resident or a graduate of a Maryland high school;
(2)
Be accepted for admission or currently enrolled at an eligible institution in a program that will enable the recipient to obtain a credential or degree that is necessary to work in or further a career in a targeted position in the Department of Human Services;
(3)
Enter into a written agreement with the Commission, in the form and manner prescribed by the Office, to meet the conditions of the Scholarship under this subtitle;
(4)
Maintain a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.5 on a 4.0 scale or its equivalent; and
(5)
Satisfy any additional criteria established by the Office or the Department of Human Services.
(d)
The annual scholarship award shall be 100% of the equivalent annual tuition and mandatory fees at the eligible institution.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3903 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 39. Pilot Program for Human Services Careers Scholarship
§ 18–3903LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
Each year the Office shall work with the Department of Human Services to award Scholarships to students to be used at an eligible institution.
(2)
The Office and the Department of Human Services shall publicize the availability of the Scholarship, including providing information on the Scholarship to every employee in a targeted position.
(b)
(1)
The Department of Human Services shall:
(i)
Identify and select eligible applicants; and
(ii)
Determine the amount of Scholarship awards.
(2)
The Department of Human Services shall prioritize selecting applicants for a Scholarship who participated in the Pilot Program for Human Services Careers established under § 2–303 of the Human Services Article.
(c)
The Office shall:
(1)
Award Scholarships to applicants selected by the Department of Human Services in the amounts determined by the Department of Human Services; and
(2)
Provide oversight related to the service obligation of the Scholarship.
(d)
A Scholarship recipient shall repay the Office the funds received under this subtitle as set forth in § 18–112 of this title if the recipient does not:
(1)
Satisfy the degree requirements of the eligible course of study or program or fulfill other requirements as provided in this subtitle; or
(2)
Perform the service obligation after graduation.
(e)
The amount to be repaid for failure to perform the service obligation shall be:
(1)
Equal to the total amount of funds received; or
(2)
As determined by the Commission.
(f)
(1)
The Scholarship is nonrefundable.
(2)
The amount of the Scholarship shall be reduced if the total amount of scholarship funds and additional resources exceeds tuition and mandatory fees.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-3904 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 39. Pilot Program for Human Services Careers Scholarship
§ 18–3904LinkCopy Citation
Funding for the Scholarship shall be as provided in the State budget.
Subtitle 40. Fallen Transportation Workers Scholarship Program
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-4001 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 40. Fallen Transportation Workers Scholarship Program
§ 18–4001LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)
“Eligible recipient” means an individual who is:
(1)
Accepted for admission or enrolled in a regular undergraduate, graduate, or professional program at an institution of postsecondary education;
(2)
At least 16 years old; and
(3)
(i)
A surviving transportation worker;
(ii)
A child, stepchild, spouse, or unmarried partner of a surviving transportation worker;
(iii)
(1)
A surviving child, stepchild, spouse, or unmarried partner of a fallen transportation worker; or
(2)
If a fallen transportation worker does not have a surviving child, stepchild, spouse, or unmarried partner, a sibling of the fallen transportation worker; or
(iv)
A child or stepchild of an unmarried partner.
(c)
“Fallen transportation worker” means an individual:
(1)
Whose occupation is in the construction, rehabilitation, or operation of a transportation facility or transportation facilities project in the State; and
(2)
Who died, on or after January 1, 2022, as a result of an accident occurring while the individual was performing any job duty necessary for the construction, maintenance, rehabilitation, or operation of a transportation facility or transportation facilities project in the State.
(d)
“Fund” means the Fallen and Surviving Transportation Workers Scholarship Fund.
(e)
“Program” means the Fallen and Surviving Transportation Workers Scholarship Program.
(f)
“Surviving transportation worker” means an individual:
(1)
Whose occupation is in the construction, rehabilitation, or operation of a transportation facility or transportation facilities project in the State; and
(2)
Who survived, on or after January 1, 2022, an accident:
(i)
Resulting in at least $100,000,000 in total damages to a transportation facility or transportation facilities project in the State; and
(ii)
Occurring while the individual was performing any job duty necessary for the construction, maintenance, rehabilitation, or operation of a transportation facility or transportation facilities project in the State.
(g)
“Transportation facilities project” has the meaning stated in § 4–101 of the Transportation Article.
(h)
“Transportation facility” has the meaning stated in § 3–101 of the Transportation Article.
(i)
“Unmarried partner” means an individual who:
(1)
At the time of a fallen transportation worker’s death:
(i)
Was in a committed relationship with the fallen transportation worker;
(ii)
Shared a primary residence with the fallen transportation worker; and
(iii)
Was receiving and relied on, in whole or in part, the reasonable necessities of life from the fallen transportation worker; or
(2)
At the time of a surviving transportation worker’s accident:
(i)
Was in a committed relationship with the surviving transportation worker;
(ii)
Shared a primary residence with the surviving transportation worker; and
(iii)
Was receiving and relied on, in whole or in part, the reasonable necessities of life from the surviving transportation worker.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-4002 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 40. Fallen Transportation Workers Scholarship Program
§ 18–4002LinkCopy Citation
(a)
There is a Fallen and Surviving Transportation Workers Scholarship Program.
(b)
The purpose of the Program is to provide tuition assistance to a student who was impacted by an accident involving a fallen transportation worker or a surviving transportation worker.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-4003 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 40. Fallen Transportation Workers Scholarship Program
§ 18–4003LinkCopy Citation
(a)
An individual may apply to an eligible institution of postsecondary education for a scholarship under this subtitle if the individual is an eligible recipient of a scholarship under this subtitle.
(b)
A scholarship awarded under this subtitle:
(1)
May be used for the total cost of attendance at any institution of postsecondary education; and
(2)
May not:
(i)
Exceed the equivalent annual tuition and mandatory fees of an undergraduate student at the 4–year institution of higher education within the University System of Maryland, other than the University of Maryland Global Campus and the University of Maryland, Baltimore Campus, with the highest annual expenses for a full–time undergraduate; and
(ii)
Be less than the lesser of:
(1)
$3,000; or
(2)
The equivalent tuition and mandatory fees of the institution attended by the recipient of the scholarship.
(c)
(1)
Each institution of postsecondary education shall determine eligibility of individuals who apply to the institution for the Program.
(2)
Subject to the availability of funds, funds for the Program shall be allocated by the Commission to each institution of postsecondary education based on the number of eligible recipients attending each institution.
(3)
In February and October each year, beginning in 2024, each institution of postsecondary education shall report to the Commission the number of eligible recipients attending the institution.
(4)
The Commission shall allocate funds for awards to institutions of postsecondary education on verification of eligible recipients attending the institutions.
(5)
If funds cannot be allocated in the fiscal year in which awards are made, priority shall be given to allocating funds for those awards in the immediately following fiscal year.
(d)
Each recipient of a scholarship under this subtitle may hold the award for 5 years of full–time study or 8 years of part–time study.
(e)
To the extent practicable, the Department of Transportation, a local department of transportation, or a contractor that employed fallen transportation workers or surviving transportation workers shall provide to the Commission the names and contact information for the families of the fallen transportation workers or surviving transportation workers after any accident resulting in eligibility for a scholarship under this subtitle.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-4004 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 40. Fallen Transportation Workers Scholarship Program
§ 18–4004LinkCopy Citation
(a)
There is a Fallen and Surviving Transportation Workers Scholarship Fund.
(b)
The Commission shall administer the Fund.
(c)
(1)
The Fund is a special, nonlapsing fund that is not subject to § 7–302 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.
(2)
The State Treasurer shall hold the Fund separately, and the Comptroller shall account for the Fund.
(d)
The Fund consists of:
(1)
Money appropriated in the State budget to the Fund;
(2)
Interest earnings; and
(3)
Any other money from any other source accepted by the Commission for the benefit of the Fund.
(e)
The Fund may be used only to award scholarships under the Program.
(f)
(1)
The State Treasurer shall invest the money of the Fund in the same manner as other State money may be invested.
(2)
Any interest earnings of the Fund shall be credited to the Fund.
(g)
Expenditures from the Fund may be made only in accordance with the State budget.
(h)
The Commission:
(1)
May accept any gift or grant from any person for the Fund; and
(2)
Shall deposit any gift or grant that it receives for the Program with the State Treasurer.
(i)
Funding for the Program shall be as provided in the State budget.
Subtitle 41. Anne Arundel County Student Loan Assistance Repayment Program for Educators
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-4101 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 41. Anne Arundel County Student Loan Assistance Repayment Program for Educators
§ 18–4101LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)
“Educator” includes a classroom teacher, an education support professional, an education–related service provider, and a specialist eligible for certification from the State Department of Education.
(c)
“Higher education loan” means any loan for undergraduate or graduate study that is obtained for tuition, educational expenses, or living expenses from:
(1)
A college or university, government, or commercial source; or
(2)
An organization, an institution, an association, a society, or a corporation that is exempt from taxation under § 501(c)(3) or (4) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.
(d)
“Program” means the Anne Arundel County Student Loan Assistance Repayment Program for Educators.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-4102 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 41. Anne Arundel County Student Loan Assistance Repayment Program for Educators
§ 18–4102LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In Anne Arundel County, the governing body of the county may establish a student loan assistance repayment program for educators employed by the Anne Arundel County Public School System.
(b)
The purpose of the Program is to attract, recruit, and retain a diverse cadre of qualified educators in the Anne Arundel County Public School System that is reflective of the student population within the county schools.
(c)
Subject to subsection (d) of this section, the county shall assist in the repayment of higher education loans owed by an individual who:
(1)
Receives a graduate, professional, or undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university;
(2)
Obtains employment as an educator in the Anne Arundel County Public School System;
(3)
Commits to serve in the Anne Arundel County Public School System for a period of not less than 5 years;
(4)
Receives an income that is less than the maximum eligible total income levels established by the county, including any additional sources of income the individual may earn;
(5)
Is not in default on any student loan; and
(6)
Satisfies any other criteria established under the Program by the county.
(d)
An applicant for assistance in the repayment of a commercial loan shall demonstrate to the county that the commercial loan was used for tuition, educational expenses, or living expenses for graduate or undergraduate study.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-4103 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 41. Anne Arundel County Student Loan Assistance Repayment Program for Educators
§ 18–4103LinkCopy Citation
Loan assistance under the Program shall be in the amount and on the terms and conditions established by the county.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-4104 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 41. Anne Arundel County Student Loan Assistance Repayment Program for Educators
§ 18–4104LinkCopy Citation
The Program shall be administered by the Anne Arundel County Public School System.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-4105 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 41. Anne Arundel County Student Loan Assistance Repayment Program for Educators
§ 18–4105LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Funds for the Program shall be as provided on an annual basis in the county budget in an appropriation separate from the county’s appropriation to the operating budget of the Anne Arundel County Board of Education.
(b)
Funds for the Program may be used to cover administrative expenses of the Program.
Subtitle 42
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-4201 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 42
§ 18–4201LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)
“PAREA” means the Practical Applications of Real Estate Appraisal.
(c)
“Program” means the Practical Applications of Real Estate Appraisal Grant Program.
Md. Code Ann., Educ. § 18-4202 (2026)
Title 18. Student Financial Assistance
Subtitle 42
§ 18–4202LinkCopy Citation
(a)
There is a Practical Applications of Real Estate Appraisal Grant Program in the Commission.
(b)
The purpose of the Program is to:
(1)
Assist in closing appraisal gaps that occur in historically redlined neighborhoods and underrepresented communities;
(2)
Award grants to minorities who reside in historically redlined neighborhoods and underrepresented communities with the goal of pursuing PAREA; and
(3)
Diversify the appraisal field.
(c)
The Commission shall administer the Program.