So that a higher percentage of Maryland’s working population has the benefit of postsecondary education, the Maryland State Department of Education and the Maryland Higher Education Commission (in partnership with the American Council on Education) are sponsoring the Maryland College Application Campaign (MCAC), October 17–21.
MCAC’s goal is to increase the number of students who are applying to college early in their senior year, particularly those from families that have never attended college or may be from low-socioeconomic circumstances.
Maryland is implementing a comprehensive and supportive process that culminates in students’ acceptance into a postsecondary institution. More than 100 high schools in 18 Maryland school systems are taking part in MCAC: Anne Arundel, Baltimore City, Baltimore County, Calvert, Caroline, Cecil, Charles, Dorchester, Garrett, Kent, Montgomery, Prince George’s, Queen Anne’s, Somerset, St. Mary, Talbot, Washington, and Wicomico.
“The Maryland College Application Campaign recognizes that education beyond high school is critical for both our high school graduates and Maryland employers,” said Karen Salmon, state superintendent of schools. “For many careers, an associate’s degree is an entry-level credential. It is essential that more students take advantage of that golden opportunity.”
During MCAC, students receive special assistance when applying to any of Maryland’s community colleges, independent colleges, private career schools, and public universities. The initiative includes working with staff from the Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (Gear-Up) initiative and school counselors to prepare students for the rigorous college application process. It also establishes a formal partnership with College Goal Maryland to assist with completing financial aid applications.
Starting in October and continuing through March, College Goal Maryland staff and volunteers will provide guided assistance in completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) application. In addition, professionals working with College Goal Maryland will assist parents/guardians and students in understanding financial aid resources, the financial aid application process, and how to access information regarding statewide student services and admission requirements
- On Twitter: @MDCollegeApp #MDCollegeStrong
- By email: info.msde@maryland.gov
