Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to file a Free
Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to
be considered for a merit scholarship?
No. It is to your advantage, however, to file a FAFSA in the
event you may be eligible for need-based aid.
Can I use my merit scholarship toward study abroad?
In most cases, merit awards can be used for approved programs
of study abroad. Scholarship recipients should discuss their plans with
the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships at least a semester in
advance of the start date of their program.
If I am awarded a scholarship, what is necessary to maintain
it?
Most UMBC merit awards require that students enroll full time.
Students are also required to maintain a minimum grade point average;
the requirement varies by program.
Are my scholarships taxable?
For Internal Revenue Service regulations that determine whether
or not your scholarship, grant or fellowship is tax free, please
visit IRS
Publication 520 (PDF).
What semesters are covered by my scholarship?
UMBC scholarships apply to fall and spring semesters only. They
do not cover college expenses for special summer or winter sessions.
How do I apply for scholarships?
- Incoming freshmen who apply to UMBC by February 1 are automatically
reviewed for general merit scholarships.
- Incoming freshmen interested in a Scholars
Program must complete the
program’s application.
- Incoming transfer students must complete the optional essay on the
admissions application in order to be considered for scholarship review.
How do I report private scholarships to UMBC?
If you are receiving funds from sources other than UMBC, you
should report this information to the Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships
in writing. Private scholarship checks should be submitted to
our office for processing. If the check is written to both the
student and UMBC, please endorse the back of the check before submission
to ensure timely processing.
Does my UMBC scholarship cover off-campus housing?
UMBC scholarships do not cover off-campus housing. The funds
may be applied to UMBC residence halls and on-campus apartments, including
Walker Avenue Apartments. Scholars must notify the Office of Financial
Aid and Scholarships of their intention to live in Walker Avenue Apartments
to ensure proper posting of their awards.
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