Scholarships

College Clearance

Senior Acceptance Picture - ALL seniors must complete this form.

Guaranteed Access Grant Pre-qualification Application

In Person Information Session

Who:  All grade levels and their parent(s)

Date: Wednesday, March 4th, 2026
Time: 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Location: HPHS Media Center

Registration Link

Understanding Financial Aid Letters:

Tips for Families

Navigating the world of college financial aid can be a daunting task for families. With each college sending its own version of a financial aid letter, the differences in format and terminology can make it challenging to compare offers effectively. Here are some helpful tips to support families in understanding and evaluating these important documents.
 
1. Identify Key Components
 
Financial aid letters typically include several key components. Familiarizing yourself with these can help you better interpret the details:

• Cost of Attendance (COA): This is an estimate of the total cost for one year of college, including tuition, fees, room and board, books, and other expenses.
• Expected Family Contribution (EFC): Calculated from the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), it's the amount the government believes your family can contribute annually.
• Gift Aid: This includes scholarships and grants that do not need to be repaid.
• Work-Study: Part-time work opportunities provided on or near campus for students to earn money for college expenses.
• Loans: Money that must be repaid, often with interest. Understand the differences between federal and private loans.

2. Compare Offers

Not all financial aid offers are created equal. When comparing offers from different colleges, consider:

• Net Price: Subtract the total gift aid from the COA to determine how much you will actually need to pay or borrow.
• Loan Terms: Take note of interest rates, repayment terms, and whether the loans are subsidized or unsubsidized.
• Renewability: Check if scholarships or grants are renewable and what requirements must be met to maintain them.
• 3. Clarify Confusing Terms

Colleges may use different language or abbreviations, which can be confusing. Don't hesitate to contact the college's financial aid office for clarification. They can explain any unclear terms, help you understand your letter, and provide guidance on next steps.
 
4. Utilize Online Resources
 
Several online tools and resources can help you decode financial aid letters:

• Net Price Calculators: Available on college websites, these tools estimate your net cost after aid.
• Financial Aid Glossaries: Websites like Federal Student Aid offer glossaries to demystify financial aid jargon.

5. Seek Professional Guidance
 
Consider consulting a financial aid advisor or a school counselor who can offer personalized advice. They can help you understand the financial implications of each offer and aid in making a well-informed decision.
 
By taking the time to thoroughly understand financial aid letters, families can make more informed choices about college finances. With these tips, the complex financial aid process can become more manageable, ensuring students and their families choose the best path forward with confidence.
  

Scholarship of the Week

The Dream. US: National Scholarship
 
The following are the requirements for the 2026-2027 Round: Applications are open to first generation immigrant students with or without DACA or TPS who came to the U.S. before the age of 16 and before Nov. 1, 2020. The National Scholarship Award will help cover your tuition and fees at one of our Partner Colleges ( Morgan State University or St. Mary’s College of Maryland) up to a maximum of $33,000 for a bachelors degree.
 
Scholars also receive an additional stipend for books, supplies, and transportation up to a maximum of $6,000. While we consider your GPA, we place great emphasis on your dedication to community service and your commitment to academic and career success despite the barriers and challenges that Dreamer students face daily.
 
The award follows students through the completion of a bachelor’s degree and is renewable each year. Recipients must meet the continuing eligibility criteria and renew the award in June.
 

Summer Program of the Week

Du Bois Summer Institute at Princeton University
 
The program is for current 7th-11th graders. Students apply for admittance in 1 of 5 academies (based on their grade):
 
Current 7th & 8th graders can apply for admittance in one of two academies: Junior Achiever's Academy (current 7th graders), Fellows Academy (current 8th graders)
 
Current 9th, 10th, and 11th graders can apply for admittance in one of three academies: Pre-Med/Biological Sciences Academy, Engineering Academy, Leadership Academy.
 
During the summer, students take rigorous university-level classes throughout the day Mondays-Thursdays. Fridays are reserved for trips. On the weekends, students participate in free-time, leadership workshops, and guest lectures. 
 
Students are required to stay in a Princeton University dorm for the duration of the program (including weekends). Commuting is not an option.
 
Current 7th and 8th graders: June 28th – July 25th | 2026
 
Current 9th, 10th, & 11th graders: June 21st – July 25th | 2026

++ Find scholarships and summer programs like this in SchooLinks

Maryland Students: Applications are OPEN for the Maryland Public Service Scholars programs!
 
These 10 to 11-week-long paid internships will help you form lifelong connections and make you part of our mission to build a Maryland that leaves no one behind.
 
Apply at go.md.gov/SummerInternship  

Upcoming Events

•  FAFSA Support Nights
• Understanding Maryland 529 College Savings
• Navigating the NCAA Clearinghouse
• What is Inclusive Postsecondary Education for Students with Intellectual Disability?