Information for New and Prospective Freshmen

Welcome to UMBC!

UMBC offers both need and merit-based aid for prospective freshmen.  In addition to general merit-based awards, specialized scholars programs offer financial awards with special opportunities for advanced research, unique seminars, directed internships, study abroad and more.  Learn more about our merit scholarships for incoming freshmen.

UMBC is pleased to provide a student aid calculator as a guide for early financial planning for college. This calculator will provide a preliminary estimate of federal and institutional aid eligibility. The calculator is intended for use by U.S. citizens or permanent residents who will be incoming first-year, full-time students entering in the fall semester pursuing their first undergraduate degree.

Please note this calculator is for estimates only and the actual award package will vary depending upon the time of year, regulatory and institutional policy changes, availability of funds as well as verifiable financial information.

Click on "Net Price Calculator" below for your estimate:

Below is a step-by-step tool that will guide you through the financial aid process beginning with your application for admission to UMBC and concluding with the payment of your bill.  The links are helpful to both prospective and incoming freshmen. Be sure to visit the rest of our Web site for more information that may meet your specific needs.

Getting Started

• Apply for admission with the Office of Undergraduate Admissions.
• Create your myUMBC account and join UMBC’s online community.
• View our Financing Your Education brochure for an overview of our financial aid process.


• Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online after January 1, but by February 14 for priority consideration of financial aid.  Include our school code, 002105 and retain your confirmation page for your records.

What's Next?

• Once you have been admitted to UMBC you must upgrade your myUMBC account. Your upgraded account will allow you to set up your UMBC email. Please note that we will correspond with you exclusively through your UMBC email address so be sure to monitor it regularly.
• Financial Aid Award Notifications are sent beginning late March. You will be sent an electronic notification on myUMBC. If you just completed your FAFSA or were recently admitted to UMBC, you will be able to access your award notification 2-3 weeks after the date of submission of your FAFSA or the date you are admitted, whichever is later.
• Please review your 'To Do List' for missing documents. Failure to respond within the requested timeframe may reduce your financial aid funding.
• The awards listed on your initial Award Notification are based on full-time enrollment. If you plan to enroll for less than 12 credits, you must contact the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships to discuss how part-time enrollment may effect your awards.
• You must submit the Authorization to Release Information form if your parent(s) or any other person will be contacting our office concerning your financial aid.
• Estimate your out-of-pocket expenses by comparing your financial aid awards to estimated tuition, fees, room and board charges located under the Cost tab.

One More Step...

• Apply for a loan if a combination of your grants, scholarships and personal contributions are not sufficient to cover your costs. Apply for loans by our priority deadline date - please visit Loans for additional information and to see final application deadline dates.
• Complete Entrance Loan Counseling

After Orientation...

• Review your e-bill through myUMBC.
• Pay your bill prior to the due date and avoid late fees. UMBC's Late Fee Waiver Policy.
• Please note: federal financial aid cannot pay late fees. You can use money you received as a refund to pay these charges.
• Review the Book Loan policy to see if you are eligible.

Remember...

• Continue to check your myUMBC for additional email requests, award revisions, and requested documents.

In-Person Assistance...

The Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships has an appointment-based visitation schedule. You may call or stop in the office to receive information about the application process, the status of your awards or to drop off documents.

Inquiries surrounding eligibility or appeals will be directed to your assigned counselor who will schedule an appointment to discuss your questions. This personalized approach allows you to have one point of contact for your financial aid and scholarship inquiries. Please visit our Contact Us page to find your financial aid counselor’s contact information.