Announcements:
2026–2027 FAFSA Processing Update
The Office of Financial Aid would like to inform students of an important update regarding the processing of the 2026–2027 FAFSA.
Due to recent federal changes associated with the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), along with required system updates from the U.S. Department of Education, the University will temporarily pause certain financial aid processing activities. This includes the loading of FAFSA records, requests for additional documentation, and the awarding of financial aid for FAFSA applications submitted on or after April 25.
This temporary pause is necessary to ensure our systems are fully updated and compliant with new federal requirements. Once updates are complete, normal processing will resume, and financial aid applications will continue to be reviewed and awarded as quickly as possible.
At this time, no action is required from students unless you are contacted directly by the Office of Financial Aid.
We understand the importance of timely financial aid information and appreciate your patience during this transition. Updates will be posted here as soon as processing resumes.
2026 SECU MD Foundation Scholarship Program
The SECU MD Foundation Scholarship Program is now accepting applications for the 2026 cycle. This opportunity is designed to support Maryland students who are continuing their education at a four year public college or university within the state.
Application Deadline: May 1, 2026
Students are encouraged to apply early to ensure all materials are submitted on time.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Applicants must be a Maryland resident and a member in good standing with SECU Maryland. Students who are not currently members are encouraged to become a member to establish eligibility.
Applicants must be a current Maryland community college student who is transferring to a Maryland four year public college or university, or who has transferred within the past 18 months.
Applicants must plan to attend a Maryland four year public college or university during the 2026 to 2027 academic year.
Ineligibility Criteria
Students are not eligible to apply if they have received a SECU MD Foundation Scholarship within the past 10 years.
Additionally, applicants are not eligible if they are an employee, director, or volunteer of SECU or the SECU MD Foundation, or an immediate family member, relative, or dependent of an individual serving in those roles, as defined by the SECU MD Foundation.
Apply Today
Students who meet the eligibility requirements are strongly encouraged to apply and take advantage of this opportunity to support their educational goals.
Work Study
Thank you for your interest in the Federal Work-Study Program. At this time, all available positions have been filled, and the program is now closed for the academic year.
We encourage students to check back for future opportunities and to explore other on-campus and community employment options.
The 2025 – 2026 FAFSA IS OPEN!
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) had unprecedented changes to how students and families apply for federal student aid and how eligibility is determined. These changes have led to many challenges for the US Department of Education.
Here with Additional Help with Student Loan Repayment
To provide you additional support, The University of Maryland Eastern Shore has partnered with Student Connections to help you understand your loan repayment commitments and address any issues you may encounter. This service is completely free to you.
As you enter student loan repayment, Student Connections may contact you through emails, text messages and phone calls to:
- Help you understand your loan obligations and responsibilities.
- Discuss available options for an affordable repayment plan.
- Ensure you are aware of repayment options during financial hardships.
These advocates are available to answer questions about your outstanding loans and, when appropriate, work with you and your loan servicer. Visit www.repaymyloans.org or talk to a borrower advocate for free at (866) 311-9450.
Who is Student Connections?
Student Connections is passionate about helping students. They partner with schools to provide support for borrowers throughout the student loan repayment process. With more than 60 years of experience in counseling student loan borrowers, their primary goal is to help establish the best repayment plan for you.
