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Maryland Pathways

Background

The University of Maryland has maintained a long tradition of providing high quality undergraduate education to academically talented students from the State of Maryland . However, access, affordability, and choice have become critical issues as recent economic conditions have made it harder for families of modest means to afford the rising costs of education. Increasingly, families with limited resources have had to assume debt to defray these costs.

To assist low-income families in these circumstances, the University of Maryland has created a financial assistance program: Maryland Pathways. This three-tiered program reduces the debt component and increases the grant component of the student's financial aid package.

The Programs

Work Grant Program
The Work Grant Program is for in-state students of families that have no financial resources to pay for college, as determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Maryland resident students qualifying for the Pathways program attend the University of Maryland debt free. These students are awarded Federal Work Study so they can work part-time on campus 5 to 10 hours per week to contribute to their "Cost of Attendance" (tuition, fees, room and board, etc.). The remaining cost of education will be offset by a combination of State and University Grants.

Pell Grant Supplement Program
The Pell Grant Supplement Program is designed to assist low-income students who would have qualified for the Pell Grant program had they not worked. Many low-income students who work often earn enough money to disqualify themselves from Pell eligibility. By reviewing only the parent's contribution, the University can offer an institutional grant at the same funding level as the Pell Grant.

Senior Debt Cap Program
The third Pathways program, called the Senior Debt Cap Program, began in Fall 2005. Seniors who have accumulated $15,900 or more in need-based federal loans are awarded a University grant covering his/her remaining financial need in the fourth year. Each year, the debt cap will be reassessed and any adjustments will be made in time to inform the next year's senior class.

Eligibility

The following eligibility policies not only help to define the program, but also support the University's academic success policies aimed at graduating students in four years. In order to be eligible for the program, the student must:

• file the FAFSA form
• enter the University as a first-time freshman
• register as a full-time student each year
• maintain academic standing

For more information including the policies and procedures of this or any financial aid program, please do not hesitate to contact our office at 301-314-8281.

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