Bill > HB688

This bill requires all public high school students in Maryland, starting in the 2026-2027 school year, to complete and submit either the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the Maryland State Financial Aid Application (MSFAA) as a graduation requirement. Students or their parents can opt out by submitting a signed form stating they understand the application but choose not to complete it. County school boards can also waive the requirement if a student has made a good faith effort to complete the application or if there are extenuating circumstances. The State Board of Education is required to develop regulations to support students in completing these financial aid applications. Additionally, each county board must submit annual reports to legislative committees from 2027 to 2032, detailing the number of students who completed the applications, declined to do so, and received waivers. The goal of this bill appears to be increasing awareness and access to financial aid for high school students by making application submission a standard part of the graduation process. The bill will take effect on October 1, 2025.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0688?ys=2025RS