Finish Line Returners

You’re near the Finish Line! The following recommendations will help ensure you are considered for maximum financial aid resources to assist in reaching your degree.

Complete the FAFSA Application
  • The FAFSA needs to be completed each academic year. At UMBC the academic year begins with the summer semester and ends with the spring semester.
  • Include the UMBC school code (002105) on the FAFSA application to ensure it is sent to UMBC.
  • If your FAFSA does not reflect your current financial circumstances, you may be eligible to submit a Change in Circumstances Appeal.
  • Undocumented Maryland residents should consider completing the Maryland State Financial Aid Application (MSFAA) in place of the FAFSA.
Follow-up with Financial Aid Alerts
  •  If additional documentation is needed, you will receive a notification on myUMBC. All documentation must be received before your award offer is created.
  • You can find more information on accessing and accepting awards under ‘Current Undergraduate Students‘
Apply for Scholarships
  • Scholarship Retriever allows you to apply for consideration for scholarships from UMBC.
  • Apply for State Aid with the Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) if you’re a Maryland resident.
    • Automatic consideration for some state awards by completing the FAFSA or MSFAA Application by March 1st.  MHEC has postponed the priority date for 2024-2025 to June 1, 2024.
    • Apply for the Near Completer Grant

The Near Completer grant is designated for Maryland residents who previously enrolled in a degree program and are planning to re-enroll to complete their bachelor’s degree.  You may be eligible if you: 

      • Have previously attended a senior higher education institution
      • Earned a minimum of 90 credit hours toward their bachelor’s degree
      • Have a minimum 2.0 GPA
      • Are a Maryland resident who is eligible for in-state tuition
      • Are not currently enrolled at a post-secondary institution.

While the FAFSA or MSFAA is not required for the Near Completer Grant, all students are encouraged to complete the applicable application for full financial aid consideration. More information about eligibility requirements and how to apply can be found at MHEC – Near Completer Grant.

Additional Options:

If you have applied for the options above and find that you will have remaining tuition costs that will prohibit your return and degree completion, reach out to Colleen Lindbeck , Senior Associate Director, to discuss your financial circumstances.  UMBC offers a limited number of institutional Completer Grants which may cover the gap.  These grants are designated for students who demonstrate financial need (from FAFSA), have exhausted grant and loan options, and for whom the financial cost of tuition is impacting enrolling in those final classes.  UMBC is committed to assisting you reach your degree!