Maryland $800 credit for Howard students will support applicants displaced before the fall 2026 semester. The state also offers expedited admission reviews at public universities with available places, as Baltimore Chronicle reports.
The initiative was announced by Governor Wes Moore on July 30. It applies to students disenrolled by Howard University in Washington, D.C. Maryland officials want to prevent an unexpected interruption in their education. The details appear in the official announcement from the Maryland governor’s office.
Who can receive the Maryland $800 student credit
The program covers students affected by Howard University’s recent enrollment decisions. Applicants must enroll at a participating University System of Maryland institution.
The $800 credit is intended to offset nonrefundable enrollment and housing deposits already paid to Howard. It is not described as a direct cash payment.
Eligible students can receive:
- an expedited late-admission review;
- assistance identifying available degree programs;
- guidance on financial aid options;
- an $800 account credit after enrollment.
The offer depends on available capacity at participating universities. Admission is therefore expedited but not guaranteed.
How displaced Howard students can apply
Students should contact the Maryland Higher Education Commission’s Office of Student Financial Assistance. The official contact address is osfamail.mhec@maryland.gov.
Staff will provide personalized guidance and connect applicants with institutions accepting late applications. Students should prepare academic records, financial aid documents and proof of their Howard enrollment status.
| Support offered | What students receive |
|---|---|
| Admission review | Faster consideration at participating institutions |
| Program search | Help locating degrees with available places |
| Financial aid | Guidance on grants, loans and other assistance |
| Deposit relief | An $800 credit after successful enrollment |
The coordinated process involves the Maryland Higher Education Commission and the University System of Maryland. Chancellor Jay Perman said the system wants students to continue their education with minimal disruption.
Why Howard University disenrolled 502 students
Howard University removed 502 incoming students after required payments or financial documents were not recorded by its deadlines. The university said families received several notices between March and July. Its fall semester begins on August 17.
Students and parents reported difficulties resolving pending loans, scholarships and account records. Howard later reviewed cases individually and restored enrollment for more than 200 students. Others may receive deferred enrollment rather than immediate reinstatement.
Maryland’s offer gives remaining students another option before classes begin. However, applicants should contact state officials immediately because campus capacity remains limited.
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