Frequently Asked Questions

• Are all scholarships based on academic excellence?

  No. The majority of Foundation scholarships are need-based. However, there are also a number of merit-based scholarships. Applicants will be assessed for both scholarships based on one application.

• When can students apply for scholarships?

  You can apply from January 1 - April 30 for a scholarship for the upcoming academic year. To be considered for a scholarship, you must have a current Cecil identification number. If you do not have a Cecil ID, go to Apply Now to complete the admission application, or contact the admissions office at 410-287-1000, ext. 346.

  You need only apply once per academic year to be considered for all scholarships. All application materials must be submitted to the Foundation office by April 30 in order to be considered for a scholarship.

• When are scholarship awards made?

  For the majority of scholarships, recipient selection is usually completed by the end of June. You will be notified by U.S. mail once selections are completed. At that time, you will be given a date to visit the Foundation office to review and sign your scholarship agreement, and write a thank you note to the donor.

  You will also be given the date of the annual scholarship breakfast which is held in September. The breakfast provides an opportunity for you to meet donors, trustees, and foundation directors.

• How are scholarship awards disbursed to the students account?

  One half of your award will be applied for the Fall semester and, provided you maintain the required GPA and any other scholarship requirements, the second half of your award will be applied to your account for the Spring semester. For instance, if you receive a scholarship award in the amount of $1,000, then $500 will be applied to your account for the Fall semester, and $500 will be applied to your account for the Spring semester. You will need to apply for a scholarship each year you plan to attend Cecil.

• Who selects scholarship recipients?

  The foundation scholarship committee reviews all applications to determine eligibility.

• How is financial need determined?

  Financial need is determined by completing the Free Application for Federal Students Aid (FAFSA), which is required for all need-based scholarship awards. Therefore, for best consideration, students are required to file the FAFSA form to receive a scholarship based on financial need. In addition, this form is used to identify your qualification for other grants and/or loans for which you may be eligible. To file online, visit www.fafsa.ed.gov. For additional information please visit our Financial Aid office.

• Are transcripts and/or recommendations needed?

  High school graduates applying to Cecil as Freshmen will be given broader consideration if transcripts are submitted. You will be notified if a letter of recommendation is required.

• Will I receive a cash refund?

  No. All Cecil College Foundation scholarships are for tuition and in some instances fees and books. Scholarship funds are applied after all other forms of financial aid and scholarships are received. If it is determined that a student was awarded an amount that is more than their balance after all other forms of aid have been applied, the funds will be returned directly to the foundation.

Tips for success.

• Electronic applications are preferred; however, paper applications received by April 30 are given the same consideration. Only one form of submission is required.
• Make sure the information you provide in your essay explains your interest in the academic program you have chosen and why you should receive a scholarship. Provide a brief description of your career plans, involvement in community organizations, hobbies and other interests.

Scholarship Application