UMD Introduces Financial Program for Low-Income Students

On Oct. 24, The University of Maryland introduced a generous program covering tuition and fees for low-income in-state college students. 

The program known as the Terrapin Commitment will begin in Jan. 2023, dramatically decreasing financial barriers for students in stressful financial situations. 

The Terrapin Commitment will provide up to $20 million total each year, making it the largest single-year investment through need-based scholarships in UMD’s history. Barbara Gill, the Associate Vice President of Enrollment Management, states, “[the program will help] provide new pathways for the best and brightest students in the state, improve graduation rates and reduce student debt.”

To qualify for the program, students must be in-state and enrolled full-time in the university, which means taking twelve or more credits per semester. They must also complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year and qualify to receive the Federal Pell Grant, as well as keep satisfactory academic progress–or a minimum GPA of 2.0.

UMD has an undergraduate population of over 30,000, and over 3,000 students are expected to benefit from this aid. According to a press release from the university, if an eligible student’s funding sources, including scholarships and family contributions, fall below UMD tuition and fees, then 50% of the remaining balance will be paid off by UMD. 

Seniors might want to consider applying to UMD since it’s less than half an hour away from Blake and has a variety of programs. Additionally, it’s a good school for students who wish to transfer from Montgomery College, which presents an all-around affordable college experience.

Overall, this program provides Maryland students with an extra opportunity to get a quality education at UMD without worrying about the price. The Early Action deadline was November 1, but the regular decision deadline isn’t until Jan. 20.