Financial Aid can include everything from gift aid (free money in the form of scholarships and grants) to earned money (like Federal Work Study) to student and/or parent loans.  Financial Aid can come from an institution of higher learning itself, the Federal Government, your state government, or outside agencies and sources.  There could be several different things you need to apply and several deadlines you need to keep track of.  Always consult with the Financial Aid Office at the schools you are interested in for more information and assistance.  Below are several resources to help you find the most money for school.

SPHS School Counselors recommend that each student applying to any post-secondary education opportunity (4-year universities, community colleges, trade schools) apply for financial aid by completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).  Even if you do not feel as through your family may qualify for any need-based aid, many institutions still need FAFSA data to award scholarships and any institutional awards.  It is also the way students will become eligible for federally-backed student loans and parents will become eligible for federally-backed Parent Plus loans.

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FAFSA will become available for all Class of 2024 students (starting post-secondary education in fall 2024) on December 1st, 2023.  Students and families should apply by March 1st, 2024 to be considered for any financial aid that could be award by the State of Maryland.

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Filling out the FAFSA

Step-by-step guide to completing FAFSA questions

Types of Financial Aid

CSS Profile - Do I need to file one?

College Cost Analyzer

Financial Aid Estimator

The Essential FAFSA Checklist 

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