UMBC has two kinds of merit money. The first is automatic: apply by November 1 and your student is reviewed for a General Merit Scholarship worth $1,000 to $15,000 a year with no extra paperwork. The second is the seven Scholars Programs (Meyerhoff, CWIT, Cyber, Humanities, Linehan, Sherman, Sondheim). Those need a separate application and an interview, and the biggest awards go to out-of-state students. Your student can apply to both, but can only keep one.
📌 University of Maryland, Baltimore County at a Glance
Average Net Price
$17,141/year (in-state estimate)
Average paid for residents.
Automatic Merit
$1,000 to $15,000/yr
No separate application.
Scholarships Tracked
11 opportunities
1 automatic · 7 competitive · 3 hidden gem
Merit Evaluation
Holistic Review / Varies
Merit depends on profile rigor.
Testing Policy
Test-optional
No superscore.
Key Deadlines
Priority: Nov 1 • FAFSA: Mar 1
Honors College
Honors Program Available
Residency & Waivers
ACM
🚨 Easy-to-Miss “Gotchas” at UMBC (Read This First)
One UMBC merit award, period. If your student is offered General Merit and a Scholars Program award, they have to pick one. Applying to several Scholars Programs is fine. Keeping two awards is not.
November 1 is the real money deadline. Applying by Early Action guarantees merit review. After that, UMBC only awards while money is left.
Scholars Programs have their own clock. Most close January 15, Meyerhoff has a December 1 priority date, and Linehan closes January 31. Your student can’t open those applications until UMBC sends a campus ID, which takes about a week after the Common App goes in.
Merit offers are final. UMBC does not take appeals on General Merit amounts.
Testing is truly optional, even for money. Students who skip scores are still reviewed for merit and Scholars Programs. UMBC does not publish a superscore policy, so send the single best sitting unless admissions tells you otherwise.
FAQ
Is this college test-optional? Yes, for admission. University of Maryland, Baltimore County is test-optional for admission.
What is the middle 50% ACT/SAT? ACT: 25-31; SAT: 1240-1420.
Average net price? About $17,141/year after aid.
Does this school use waivers/reciprocity?
Yes. It participates in ACM.
💰 Cost of Attendance at University of Maryland, Baltimore County: 2026–2027 Rates
Figures verified against official sources in October 2026.
📅 Planning for 2027–2028? These are the 2026–2027 rates, the newest University of Maryland, Baltimore County has published. Colleges usually release next year's costs in the spring, and we update this page when they do.
Budgeting tip: costs typically rise 2% to 5% a year. For 2027–2028, plan on roughly
$600 to $1,500 more than the in-state total below.$1,000 to $2,500 more than the out-of-state total below.
In-State: billed cost per year
$29,824
Tuition, fees, housing, and meals for two semesters
Tuition & mandatory fees
$14,086
Housing & meals (typical)
$15,738
Total billed cost
$29,824
Out-of-State: billed cost per year
$49,921
Tuition, fees, housing, and meals for two semesters
Tuition & mandatory fees
$34,183
Housing & meals (typical)
$15,738
Total billed cost
$49,921
That is $20,097 more per year than Maryland residents pay, before any waivers or scholarships.
Average federal net price: $17,141 per year.
This is what first-time, full-time students who received grant aid paid after grants and scholarships, for in-state students only, based on the most recent federal data. It counts books and living costs, so it can run higher than the billed total above. Families who got no grants are not in this average, so many middle-income families pay more. New to Net Price & SAI? Read our guide.
Out-of-state families: this average does not include you. Run the college's own net price calculator for a number based on your situation.
📌 Regional Tuition & Waiver Options
UMBC charges higher tuition to students who are not Maryland residents, and there is no broad regional discount like WUE or MSEP. Maryland does take part in the Academic Common Market (ACM), which can let residents of other SREB states pay in-state tuition for an approved major their home state does not offer. Approved majors are set state by state and change over time, so check the SREB ACM search for your home state before counting on it.
Out-of-State Savings & Waivers
There’s no broad regional discount at UMBC, but there are two things worth knowing. Maryland takes part in the Academic Common Market (ACM), which can help residents of some southern states for specific majors their home state doesn’t offer. More useful for most families: UMBC’s Scholars Programs pay out-of-state students more ($10,000 to $22,000 a year versus $5,000 to $15,000 for Maryland residents), which takes a real bite out of the non-resident premium.
FAQ: Cost of Attendance at UMBC
Why is out-of-state tuition so much higher?
For 2026-2027, tuition and mandatory fees are $14,086 for Maryland residents and $34,183 for everyone else. That roughly $20,000 gap is the state subsidy Maryland families get through their taxes. Housing and meals cost the same no matter where you live.
What does UMBC’s full cost of attendance look like?
Living on campus, UMBC estimates about $42,456 a year in-state and $62,553 out-of-state. Those totals add books ($1,600), transportation ($1,900), personal costs, and loan fees on top of the billed charges in the table above. Living at home with family drops the in-state estimate to about $33,992.
How much are housing and meal plans?
A standard single or double in the residence halls is $4,827 per semester, and residential meal plans run from $2,800 to $3,561 per semester. UMBC’s cost-of-attendance table shows $9,248 for in-state housing and $9,428 for out-of-state, but the billing office charges everyone the same housing rates. We use the $9,248 figure for both.
Can out-of-state students get in-state tuition?
Not automatically. The ACM can work if your home state is an SREB member and has approved a UMBC major it doesn’t offer itself, so check the SREB ACM search for your state. Otherwise, residency for tuition follows Maryland’s rules, which generally require living in the state for reasons other than school.
Is the average net price really around $17,000?
That’s the federal average families paid after grants and scholarships (not loans). Families with strong need or a big Scholars award often pay less. Out-of-state families without aid will pay much closer to the full sticker price.
Is there a grant for Baltimore City students?
Yes. The Best of Baltimore Grant covers whatever is left on the bill (in-state tuition, fees, and on-campus housing and meals) for Baltimore City residents starting college whose FAFSA shows significant need. There’s no separate application. See the Hidden Gems section below.
Will the price go up after freshman year?
Probably. The University System of Maryland Board of Regents sets tuition each year, and UMBC reserves the right to change rates. Merit scholarships are four-year awards, so ask the Scholarships office whether your student’s award amount stays fixed if tuition rises.
November 1: Early Action. Applying by today guarantees General Merit review.
December 1: Meyerhoff priority date.
Late December: Admission and merit letters for November 1 applicants.
January 15: Most Scholars Program applications close (Linehan runs to January 31).
March 1: FAFSA priority date for need-based aid.
Early April: Most Scholars Program decisions. May 1: decide and accept.
Parent rule of thumb: get the Common App in by November 1 even if your student is still deciding. It locks in merit review and gets the campus ID you’ll need for every Scholars application.
Automatic Merit Scholarships at UMBC
UMBC’s General Merit Scholarship needs no separate application. Every admitted first-year student is reviewed using what they sent with their admission application. Awards run $1,000 to $15,000 per year for four years. UMBC doesn’t publish a GPA or test cutoff. Instead, it compares your student’s grades, course rigor, and scores (if sent) against the rest of the admitted pool.
Find your student's tier
Enter the numbers you have. We'll highlight the automatic award your student would actually get and tuck the rest out of the way. Leave it blank to browse everything.
Residency
Based on published cutoffs for entering freshmen. Always verify with the college before finalizing plans.
One award, not a pile. Colleges apply your student's single best automatic award. Automatic scholarships almost never stack with each other, though some stack with housing, departmental, or outside money. The stacking notes on each card tell you which.
Automatic
General Merit Scholarship (First-Year)
📅 Deadline: Nov 1 · 📢 Results: Late December for Nov 1 applicants; February or rolling thereafter ✓ Renews (3.25 GPA, 4 yrs)
$1,000–$15,000/yr
✔ Stackable
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
UMBC lets a student accept only one UMBC academic or merit scholarship. If your student is offered General Merit and a Scholars Program award, they must pick one. Outside private scholarships and need-based federal and state aid can be added on top, but the total from all sources cannot go above UMBC's cost of attendance for the year.
💡
Strategic Detail
UMBC's main automatic merit award for incoming first-year students. It is a four-year award worth $1,000 to $15,000 per year, sized by how the student's file compares with the rest of the admitted pool. There is no separate application. Applying for admission by the November 1 Early Action deadline guarantees scholarship review, and UMBC keeps awarding after that date only while money remains. Award decisions are final and cannot be appealed. Open to in-state, out-of-state, undocumented, DACA, and international applicants.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Admitted first-year students with strong cumulative grades, solid grades in core subjects, and a rigorous 9th through 11th grade schedule. UMBC does not publish a GPA or test cutoff. Test scores count only if the student sends them, so a test-optional applicant is judged on the transcript alone.
Data last verified Oct 12, 2026.* GPA/test bands are estimates based on official selectivity and prior cohort profiles. "Who Actually Wins" insights are pulled from external peer-sourced data where students and parents have reported real-world award results. Because colleges can change funding thresholds and deadlines at any time, always verify these details with the institution before finalizing your application strategy.
Note: Your student can accept only one UMBC academic or merit scholarship. If a Scholars Program offer also comes in, they’ll choose between it and General Merit.
Automatic Merit FAQs (UMBC)
When does my student need to apply to get merit money?
By November 1 (Early Action) with a complete file. That guarantees review. Students who apply later are reviewed only while money remains, and their letters come in February instead of late December.
Does my student need SAT or ACT scores for merit?
No. UMBC reviews test-optional students for merit using grades, individual course grades, and their 9th through 11th grade schedule. Scores help only if they’re strong compared to UMBC’s middle range of 1240 to 1420 on the SAT.
What GPA or score do you need?
UMBC doesn’t publish one. The award size depends on how your student’s file stacks up against the other admitted students that year.
How does my student keep the scholarship?
Keep at least a 3.25 cumulative GPA and complete 12 credits every fall and spring. UMBC checks every semester. Merit pays for fall and spring only, not summer or winter.
Can we appeal the amount?
No. UMBC treats merit amounts as final. Your best move is the Scholarship Retriever general application, which matches your student to other UMBC awards.
Do we need the FAFSA for merit?
Not for General Merit, but file it anyway. Need-based grants, including the Best of Baltimore Grant, run through the FAFSA (UMBC school code 002105).
How does my student accept the award?
By signing the scholarship agreement in myUMBC. Students deferring a semester still have to sign it.
Are out-of-state, DACA, and international students eligible?
Yes. UMBC reviews in-state, out-of-state, undocumented, DACA, and international applicants for General Merit.
UMBC’s big competitive money lives in seven Scholars Programs. Each one is a four-year award plus a real community: seminars, mentoring, research, internships, and often a shared residence hall floor. Most pay $5,000 to $15,000 a year for Maryland residents and $10,000 to $22,000 a year for out-of-state students. Every one needs a separate application in Scholarship Retriever, and finalists interview at Scholar Selection Day.
📋 The Seven Programs at a Glance
Program
Built For
First-Year Deadline
Meyerhoff
STEM students headed for a Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D.
Dec 1 priority, Jan 15 final
CWIT
Computing and engineering majors (all genders)
Jan 15
Cyber
CS, computer engineering, or IS with a cyber focus
Jan 15 (aim for Jan 1)
Sondheim
Public service, policy, law, nonprofits
Jan 15
Humanities
History, languages, philosophy, and related majors
Jan 15
Linehan
Dance, music, theatre, visual arts majors
Jan 31 + audition or portfolio
Sherman
Future STEM and early childhood teachers for urban schools
Jan 15
✅ Can You Stack Scholarships at UMBC?
Aid Type
Stacks?
Parent Translation
General Merit + a Scholars Program
No
Pick one. Usually that’s the Scholars award, which pays more and comes with the community.
Two Scholars Programs
No
Apply to every program that fits. If two say yes, your student chooses one.
Honors College
Yes
Honors is an academic program, not a scholarship, so it never counts against the one-award rule.
Outside scholarships
Yes, up to cost of attendance
Report them to UMBC. Total aid can’t go above the cost of attendance.
Need-based grants
Usually
Federal, state, and UMBC grants fill gaps after merit. File the FAFSA by March 1.
App Requiredcitizenshipcareer intentmajor
Meyerhoff Scholars Program
📅 Deadline: December 1 · 📢 Results: End of March (typically) ✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
$5,000–$22,000/yr
✘ Not stackable
🏫 3.0+ GPA✎ ~24 ACTMinimum 600 on SAT Math or a 24 ACT composite, if scores are submitted. Cumulative high school GPA of 3.0 or higher and at least a B average in math and science. Must plan to pursue a Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D. in a STEM field, show commitment to community service, be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, and major in one of 12 approved STEM majors.
✚
Stacking & Combining
Students may receive only one UMBC institutional merit award; when offered Meyerhoff, it generally replaces any general merit scholarship.
📄
How to Apply
Apply for UMBC admission, then complete the Meyerhoff Scholars Program application (including essays and supplemental questions) by the January 15 priority deadline; finalists are invited to a selection weekend before final decisions.
Selection criteria: Holistic review emphasizing academic excellence in STEM, strength of curriculum, commitment to research and graduate study, leadership, and contribution to diversity in the sciences.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview💌 Letters of Rec🌟 Finalist Event
💡
Strategic Detail
Awards range from $5,000–$15,000 per year for in-state and $10,000–$22,000 per year for out-of-state students for four years, helping cover tuition, mandatory fees, and related expenses.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
High-achieving STEM students aiming for a Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D., usually with strong math and science grades, calculus, research experience, and teacher recommendations. A nomination from a counselor or teacher is no longer required but is strongly encouraged. Strong preference goes to Ph.D. plans over M.D.-only plans. The program is open to all students who support the advancement of minorities in the sciences.
App Required
Center for Women in Technology (CWIT) Scholars
📅 Deadline: January 15 · 📢 Results: End of March (typically) ✓ Renews (4 yrs)
$5,000–$22,000/yr
✘ Not stackable
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Structured as a four-year institutional scholars award that normally replaces general merit; students generally receive one primary UMBC merit/scholars package.
📄
How to Apply
Apply to UMBC, then submit the CWIT Scholars application via Scholarship Retriever by January 15, including required short-answer questions and any requested supplemental materials; finalists are interviewed by a faculty committee.
Selection criteria: Evaluates academic preparation in computing and engineering, alignment with CWIT mission, leadership and outreach experiences, and potential to contribute to an inclusive cohort.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview
💡
Strategic Detail
CWIT Scholars receive four-year scholarships ranging from $5,000–$15,000 per year for in-state students and $10,000–$22,000 per year for out-of-state students, along with mentoring, special courses, and industry connections.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Incoming computing and engineering students who strongly support CWIT’s mission to increase women’s participation in technology and demonstrate solid academics, leadership, and fit with the cohort model.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Cyber Scholars Program
📅 Deadline: January 15 ✓ Renews (4 yrs)
$5,000–$22,000/yr
✘ Not stackable
🏫 3.3+ GPA👥 ~Program aims to support 15–20 scholars annually. winners/yr🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Administered with CWIT; typically serves as a primary scholars award that replaces general merit rather than stacking.
📄
How to Apply
Apply to UMBC and then submit the Cyber Scholars application through Scholarship Retriever by the published deadlines (January 15 for freshmen, March 1 for transfer and current students), including required essays and any optional recommendations.
Selection criteria: Selection emphasizes academic performance in quantitative and computing coursework, interest in cybersecurity or related fields, and engagement with the program’s learning community.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview
💡
Strategic Detail
Cyber Scholars receive $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000 per year if in-state and $10,000, $15,000, or $22,000 per year if out-of-state, plus a first-year living-learning community, mentoring, and early access to cybersecurity, AI, and data science internships and research. Heads up: the Cybersecurity Institute page lists January 1 for first-year applicants while UMBC Admissions and the Scholarships office list January 15, so submitting by January 1 is the safe move.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Incoming, transfer, and current UMBC undergraduates with at least a 3.25 GPA who show strong interest and potential in cybersecurity, AI, or data science and engagement with the program community.
App Required
Sondheim Public Affairs Scholars
📅 Deadline: January 15 ✓ Renews (4 yrs)
$5,000–$22,000/yr
✘ Not stackable
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Students typically receive one primary UMBC scholars or merit award; Sondheim funding usually replaces general merit rather than stacking on top.
📄
How to Apply
Apply to UMBC and submit the Sondheim Public Affairs Scholars application by the January 15 scholars deadline, including essays and supplemental questions about public service and leadership.
Selection criteria: Holistic review emphasizing public service involvement, leadership in civic or community organizations, academic preparation, and fit with a public affairs cohort.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
Sondheim Scholars receive four-year awards of $5,000 to $15,000 per year in-state and $10,000 to $22,000 per year out-of-state, plus service-learning, internships, and policy work aimed at careers in government, law, nonprofits, education, health care, and sustainability. Applications for the 2027-28 class are open through January 15, 2027.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students with strong academic records and a demonstrated commitment to public service, policy, and civic leadership through sustained activities and leadership roles.
App Required
Humanities Scholars Program
📅 Deadline: January 15 ✓ Renews (4 yrs)
$5,000–$22,000/yr
✘ Not stackable
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Designed as a primary humanities scholars package; students generally do not combine this award with other large UMBC merit scholarships.
📄
How to Apply
Apply to UMBC and submit the Humanities Scholars Program application by the January 15 scholars deadline, including essays on humanities interests and experiences.
Selection criteria: Holistic review focusing on academic performance in humanities courses, writing strength, and evidence of engagement with humanities inquiry and projects.
✎ Essays💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
Part of UMBC's Scholars Programs, which award $5,000 to $22,000 per year. The program does not publish its own tier breakdown. Scholars take two first-year interdisciplinary seminars, spend a semester studying abroad in junior year, and can live together on the Humanities floor.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students with strong academic preparation and clear commitment to humanities disciplines such as history, languages, philosophy, or related fields.
App Required
Linehan Artist Scholars
📅 Deadline: January 31 ✓ Renews (4 yrs)
$5,000–$22,000/yr
✘ Not stackable
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Structured as a primary scholars award that typically replaces general institutional merit rather than stacking.
📄
How to Apply
Apply to UMBC, then submit the Linehan Artist Scholars application and required audition or portfolio materials by the January 15 scholars deadline.
Selection criteria: Selection focuses on artistic excellence demonstrated through portfolio or audition, along with academic preparation and potential for leadership in the arts community.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
Linehan Artist Scholars receive $5,000 to $15,000 per year in-state and $10,000 to $22,000 per year out-of-state for four years. Open only to incoming freshmen majoring in dance, music, theatre, or visual arts. The arts department picks scholars through its own audition or portfolio review, and the student must also submit the Linehan application with a short essay in Scholarship Retriever. Finalists interview at Scholar Selection Day in late February.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Exceptionally talented visual and performing arts students with strong portfolios or auditions and solid academic preparation.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Sherman Teacher Scholars
📅 Deadline: January 15 ✓ Renews (4 yrs)
$5,000–$22,000/yr
✘ Not stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Program typically serves as a primary scholarship package in combination with service and teaching commitments; may replace general merit awards.
📄
How to Apply
Apply to UMBC and submit the Sherman STEM Teacher Scholars application by the posted deadline for your entry path, including essays about teaching goals and required recommendations.
Selection criteria: Evaluates academic readiness, commitment to teaching in high-need schools, reflective essays, and recommendations indicating potential as a transformative educator.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
Prepares future STEM and early childhood or elementary teachers to work in urban and high-poverty schools. UMBC lists Scholars Program awards at $5,000 to $22,000 per year, but the Sherman program does not publish its own award tiers. Applicants need at least three full semesters left in their degree plan, and finalists interview at Scholar Selection Day.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students preparing to teach in high-need schools who demonstrate strong academic potential, commitment to education, and alignment with the program’s service mission.
Data last verified Oct 12, 2026.* GPA/test bands are estimates based on official selectivity and prior cohort profiles. "Who Actually Wins" insights are pulled from external peer-sourced data where students and parents have reported real-world award results. Because colleges can change funding thresholds and deadlines at any time, always verify these details with the institution before finalizing your application strategy.
❓ Scholars Program FAQs
How many Scholars Programs can my student apply to?
As many as fit. The catch is at the end: your student can only accept one, and it replaces General Merit.
When can my student start the application?
After UMBC sends a campus ID, about 5 to 7 business days after the Common App is submitted. Scholars applications live in Scholarship Retriever and need that ID to log in. That’s one more reason to apply by November 1.
What is Scholar Selection Day?
After applications close, programs invite finalists to campus to interview and meet current scholars. Linehan’s is February 27, 2027. Meyerhoff holds its own Selection Weekends, with invitations mailed around January 31, and invited students take UMBC’s math placement test first.
When do we find out?
Most programs notify in early April. Linehan notifies in mid-March, and Meyerhoff mails decisions April 1. Students accept by May 1.
Why do out-of-state students get more?
UMBC sets higher award ranges for non-residents ($10,000 to $22,000 versus $5,000 to $15,000) to offset the higher tuition. For an out-of-state family, a Scholars award is the single biggest lever on UMBC’s price.
Is Meyerhoff only for students of color?
No. Meyerhoff is open to all high-achieving seniors who plan to earn a Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D. in STEM and who support the advancement of minorities in the sciences. It does require U.S. citizenship or permanent residency, a 3.0 GPA, and (if scores are sent) 600 SAT Math or a 24 ACT. Strong preference goes to Ph.D. plans over M.D.-only plans.
Can transfer or current students apply?
Only to Cyber (March 1) and Sherman (March 15 priority for fall). The other five programs are for incoming freshmen only.
Does my student need test scores?
No. Scholars Programs follow UMBC’s test-optional policy. Strong essays and recommendations matter more here. Our Essay Toolkit and Brag Sheet Builder can help.
🧠 Parent Strategy: The Scholarship Retriever Habit
Getting admitted doesn’t mean your student has applied for all of UMBC’s money. Once the campus ID arrives, log into
Scholarship Retriever and fill out the General Application. It automatically matches your student with awards from across campus.
Finish the General Application in detail. Reviewers read it for every award it matches.
Check back every 2 to 3 weeks. New awards post all year.
Redo the General Application every year. It doesn’t carry over.
Screenshot your confirmations.
Parent translation: General Merit finds your student on its own. Everything in Retriever only comes if your student goes looking.
💎 Hidden Gem Scholarships
These are the awards most families never hear about. Some are need-based, some are for later years or transfer students, and one is a full-tuition-plus-stipend deal for future cyber pros. Check who each one is for before you count on it.
Automaticgeographicneed based
Best of Baltimore Grant
📅 Deadline: No separate application; file the FAFSA early (UMBC priority date March 1) ✓ Renews (4 yrs)
$1,100–$22,000/yr
✔ Stackable
⚠ Baltimore City residents entering college for the first time with significant FAFSA need.
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Built as a last-dollar grant, so it sits on top of other aid and fills what is left of the bill. If your student wins another scholarship later, this grant can shrink by a similar amount.
💡
Strategic Detail
First awarded in fall 2025. Covers the billed costs left over (in-state tuition, mandatory fees, and on-campus housing and meal plan) after federal grants, subsidized loans, state and institutional grants, and scholarships are applied. For 2025-26, awards ranged from $1,100 to $22,000. Renewed for three more years as long as the FAFSA still shows significant need and the student keeps Satisfactory Academic Progress. Does not cover books or course material fees, and the amount can drop if the student moves off campus or picks up other grants.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Baltimore City residents starting college for the first time whose FAFSA shows significant financial need. Consideration is automatic once the FAFSA lists UMBC (school code 002105).
App Required⚠ Transfer Onlytransfergeographicneed basedmajorcitizenship
T-SITE Scholars Program (Transfer)
📅 Deadline: March 1 ✓ Renews (3 yrs)
$8,000/yr
✘ Not stackable
⚠ Maryland community college transfers in five computing and engineering majors; FAFSA need required.
🏫 3.0+ GPA🎓 Transfer
✚
Stacking & Combining
NSF-funded scholars program that typically functions as a primary transfer STEM scholarship rather than stacking with other large institutional awards.
📄
How to Apply
Transfer from a Maryland community college into an eligible computing or engineering major at UMBC and submit the T-SITE Scholars application by March 1.
Selection criteria: Focuses on academic performance in community college STEM coursework, persistence indicators, and commitment to completing a computing or engineering degree at UMBC.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Need-based scholarship funded by the National Science Foundation, worth up to $8,000 per year for new transfer students coming from a Maryland community college into chemical engineering, computer engineering, computer science, information systems, or mechanical engineering. The amount depends on FAFSA need. Scholars must keep a 3.0 GPA and take part in CWIT community events.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Maryland community college transfer students in computing or engineering who demonstrate academic potential and commitment to completing a STEM degree at UMBC.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
USM Board of Regents Student Excellence Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Early February (the 2026 cycle closed February 6; USM posts 2027 details in December 2026) · 📢 Results: Early May Non-Renewable
$2,000
✔ Stackable
⚠ Current USM students only; not open to incoming freshmen.
🏫 3.0+ GPA👥 ~Up to two undergraduate winners per category (one freshman/sophomore and one junior/senior) plus up to one graduate winner per category, system-wide, per year. winners/yr🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Adds on top of existing UMBC merit and need-based aid. The only limit is that total aid from all sources cannot exceed the cost of attendance, so UMBC may adjust other aid if your student is already at that ceiling.
📄
How to Apply
Submit the USM Board of Regents Student Excellence online application via usmd.edu in the category that best fits your student's work: (1) Leadership and Advocacy, (2) Outreach and Engagement, (3) Innovation and Creative Activity, or (4) Academics, Scholarship, and Research. The application includes a 300–350 word essay on excellence in the chosen category, a current resume, a bulleted list of 2–4 signature experiences that map to the category, and (for the Academics category only) a current unofficial transcript. Have one recommender email a letter of recommendation directly to bor-studentexcellencescholarships@usmd.edu by the cycle deadline.
✎ Essays💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
A system-wide award from the University System of Maryland Board of Regents for students already enrolled at a USM school, including UMBC. Each winner gets a one-time $2,000 scholarship, a commemorative stole, and recognition at a Board of Regents ceremony. Categories are Leadership and Advocacy, Outreach and Engagement, Innovation and Creative Activity, and Academics, Scholarship, and Research. Incoming high school seniors are not eligible.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: A very small group across all USM schools: up to two undergraduates per category each year (one freshman or sophomore, one junior or senior). Winners show specific, sustained impact outside of class, a job, or an internship, backed by a strong recommendation letter.
Full TuitionApp Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Army ROTC Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Varies ✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Full Tuition
tuition, fees, room_and_board_stipend
✘ Not stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Covers full tuition or room and board plus stipend; may affect eligibility for certain institutional aid but can stack with some external scholarships and federal benefits subject to Army and UMBC policies.
📄
How to Apply
Apply through the U.S. Army ROTC national or campus-based scholarship process, complete required fitness, medical, and academic evaluations, and enroll in Army ROTC at UMBC if awarded.
Selection criteria: Evaluated by the Army on academic performance, leadership potential, physical fitness, and suitability for commissioning as an officer.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
UMBC students take Army ROTC through Johns Hopkins University and Air Force ROTC through the University of Maryland, College Park. National Army ROTC scholarships can pay full tuition or room and board plus a stipend for cadets who accept a service commitment. Ask UMBC financial aid how an ROTC award will interact with any UMBC merit offer.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students who meet Army ROTC academic, physical, and medical standards and commit to commissioning as U.S. Army officers after graduation.
Data last verified Oct 12, 2026.* GPA/test bands are estimates based on official selectivity and prior cohort profiles. "Who Actually Wins" insights are pulled from external peer-sourced data where students and parents have reported real-world award results. Because colleges can change funding thresholds and deadlines at any time, always verify these details with the institution before finalizing your application strategy.
Money the college does not control. Federal programs, city promise funds, foundations, and employers. The college may help you apply, but someone else writes the check, and these almost always stack with the college's own awards.
📅 Deadline: Mid-February (February 15 for the Fall 2026 group; check the SFS page for the current cycle) ✓ Renews
Varies
✘ Not stackable
⚠ Juniors and above in cyber-aligned majors; must accept a government service commitment and be clearance-eligible.
🏫 3.0+ GPA🎓 Upperclassmen
💡
Strategic Detail
Federal CyberCorps program run at UMBC. Covers tuition and mandatory fees, pays undergraduates a $27,000 yearly stipend, and adds up to $6,000 a year for certifications, conferences, and training. Requires a summer internship and paid government cybersecurity work after graduation for the required service period. New scholars must also take four AI courses. UMBC says it is top five nationally by number of SFS graduates. Students must have junior standing (60 credits) when the scholarship starts, so this is a later-years opportunity, not a freshman award. Ask financial aid how SFS will interact with any UMBC merit award.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
UMBC juniors, seniors, and graduate students in computer science, computer engineering, information systems, or cybersecurity who want a government cybersecurity career, can get a security clearance, and bring strong technical coursework, cyber defense team or research experience, and a clear commitment to public service.
Data last verified Oct 12, 2026.* GPA/test bands are estimates based on official selectivity and prior cohort profiles. "Who Actually Wins" insights are pulled from external peer-sourced data where students and parents have reported real-world award results. Because colleges can change funding thresholds and deadlines at any time, always verify these details with the institution before finalizing your application strategy.
❓ Hidden Gems FAQ
Who qualifies for the Best of Baltimore Grant?
Baltimore City residents starting college for the first time whose FAFSA shows significant need. There’s no application; it’s automatic through the FAFSA. It pays the billed costs left after other grants and scholarships. Awards ranged from $1,100 to $22,000 in 2025-26, and the grant renews for three more years if need continues.
Can a freshman get CyberCorps Scholarship for Service?
Not right away. SFS starts at junior standing (60 credits). It’s still worth planning for from day one: it covers tuition and fees, pays a $27,000 yearly stipend, and adds up to $6,000 a year for training. In exchange, your student completes an internship and works in government cybersecurity after graduation. They’ll need a 3.0 GPA, U.S. citizenship or permanent residency, and the ability to get a security clearance.
We’re starting at community college. Anything for us?
Yes. T-SITE pays up to $8,000 a year, based on need, to Maryland community college transfers heading into computing or engineering majors with a 3.0 GPA. Cyber Scholars and Sherman Scholars also take transfer applicants.
What’s the USM Board of Regents scholarship?
A one-time $2,000 award for students already enrolled at a University System of Maryland school. It’s very selective (up to two undergraduates per category, system-wide). Keep it in mind for sophomore year and beyond. USM posts the 2027 details in December 2026.
Does UMBC have ROTC?
UMBC students take Army ROTC through Johns Hopkins and Air Force ROTC through the University of Maryland, College Park. ROTC scholarships come from the military, not UMBC, so ask financial aid how one would interact with a UMBC merit award.
My student didn’t get General Merit. Now what?
Scholars Programs are a separate decision, so apply anyway. Then lean on Scholarship Retriever and the FAFSA. Need-based UMBC Grants and Maryland state aid can still move the number.
The UMBC Honors College is a selective community of about 500 students from every major. Think small seminar-style classes with specially designed content, a freshman living-learning community, and a medallion to wear at graduation. Admission is separate from regular admission, so your student has to opt in.
How to apply: Answer “Yes” to the Honors question on the Common App and complete the Honors writing supplement. Students applying to a Scholars Program can instead check a box on that application to count it as their Honors application.
Freshman deadlines: November 1 priority, February 1 regular. Freshmen can only start in the fall.
Missed it? Students can download the Honors application later and email it in, and current UMBC students can apply on a rolling basis.
Honors College Scholarships
This institution does not offer designated Honors College scholarships at this time.
Straight Talk on Money: We could not find any scholarship that comes automatically with UMBC Honors admission. At UMBC, the money is in General Merit and the Scholars Programs. The good news is that Honors doesn’t count as a scholarship, so it never bumps into the one-award rule. Your student can be an Honors student and a Meyerhoff, Sondheim, or General Merit recipient.
Why Honors Still Pays Off
Small classes: Seminar-style courses with unique topics, a real contrast to big intro lectures.
Built-in community: Freshmen can live together in the Honors living-learning community.
Prestigious scholarships help: The Honors College points students to UMBC’s office for national awards like Goldwater, Fulbright, and Truman.
Honors College FAQs (UMBC)
Is Honors admission automatic for high achievers?
No. Your student has to answer the Honors question and write the supplement (or check the box on a Scholars application).
Does the Honors College give its own scholarships?
Not that we could find. Plan your money around General Merit and the Scholars Programs, and treat Honors as an academic upgrade.
Can my student do Honors and a Scholars Program?
Yes. They’re separate, and the Scholars application can double as the Honors application.
Can transfer students join?
Yes. Fall transfers have March 1 (early) and June 1 (regular) deadlines, and spring transfers have October 15 and December 1.
What’s the deadline we should actually aim for?
November 1. It’s the Honors priority date, the Early Action date, and the date that guarantees General Merit review, all in one.
UMBC is a public research university of about 13,500 students sitting between Baltimore and Washington, D.C. It doesn’t have the big-game-day reputation of a flagship. What it does have is a national name for turning motivated students into scientists, engineers, and tech professionals, and a commuter-friendly price for Maryland families. U.S. News lists it among the Most Innovative schools and recognizes it for undergraduate teaching.
Nationally Known Program: Meyerhoff Scholars Program: For more than 30 years, Meyerhoff has been one of the best-known pipelines in the country for students headed to Ph.D. and M.D./Ph.D. programs in science and engineering. Colleges across the U.S. have studied it as a model. If your student is serious about research, this is the program that put UMBC on the map.
Computing and Information Systems: Computer science and information systems are two of UMBC’s most common degrees, backed by the CWIT and Cyber Scholars communities.
Cybersecurity: UMBC’s Cybersecurity Institute runs a CyberCorps program that ranks top five nationally by number of graduates. Being next door to the federal and defense tech corridor helps with internships.
Engineering: Mechanical, chemical, and computer engineering, with research labs and the bwtech@UMBC research park on campus.
Biological Sciences: A large, research-heavy major that feeds medical school and Ph.D. paths.
Psychology: UMBC’s most common undergraduate degree among alumni, often paired with social work, sociology, or pre-health tracks.
Arts and Humanities: Smaller than STEM, but the Linehan, Humanities, and Sondheim Scholars programs give arts, humanities, and public-service students a funded, close-knit home.
🔗 Official UMBC Links
Use UMBC’s official pages below to double-check deadlines, scholarship rules, costs, and data. Always treat these pages as the final word on award terms and dates.
Here’s UMBC in one breath: a public research school that punches way above its size in science, computing, and cyber, with a merit system that rewards families who move early. Get the Common App in by November 1 and General Merit takes care of itself. The bigger money, though, is in the Scholars Programs, and those take real effort: a separate application, an interview, and a choice at the end because your student can only keep one award.
For out-of-state families, that choice matters even more, since Scholars awards climb to $22,000 a year for non-residents. For Baltimore City families with real need, the Best of Baltimore Grant can cover what’s left of the bill. And if your student is a future researcher, Meyerhoff alone is reason to put UMBC on the list.
Your kid did everything right. That does not mean the money follows.
Most families build a college list first and think about scholarships second, which is backwards. This free four-part series shows you where the money actually comes from, and how to build a list around it.
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Leo is a parent who went through the college money maze with his own daughter and built CollegeReadyParent to help middle-income and first-generation families find the aid they qualify for, free and in plain English. More about Leo →
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