The state of Maryland is stepping in to support students affected by the recent disenrollment at Howard University.
On Thursday, Governor Wes Moore’s office announced that students seeking to enroll in a University System of Maryland (USM) institution this fall will be offered expedited admissions along with an $800 credit.
Following directives from Governor Moore, the Maryland Higher Education Commission and the University System of Maryland have initiated a process designed to assist those impacted by the recent disenrollment at Howard. This program aims to help students find available programs, explore financial aid options, and navigate expedited late admissions reviews at USM institutions that have available capacity.
In addition, students who were disenrolled will receive an $800 credit to help cover the nonrefundable enrollment and housing deposits they had already submitted to Howard University.
Governor Moore remarked, “These students worked hard, earned admission to college, and were preparing to begin the next chapter of their lives. Historically Black Colleges and Universities are vital to education, research, and excellence for our entire nation. We support any young person pursuing higher education, and Maryland is acting swiftly to create a clear path forward with hands-on support, expedited admissions assistance, and financial relief, enabling them to stay on track to earn their degrees.”
This situation arose when 502 incoming freshmen were disenrolled after Howard received a staggering 37,000 applications and enrolled just 2,200 students.
Interim President of Howard University, Wayne A. I. Frederick, shared insights during an interview with the Associated Press, explaining that many students and their families misunderstood the financial obligations they were expected to meet before classes started in August.
Since the initial announcement about disenrollment, over 200 students have been readmitted to Howard.
Students interested in attending a USM institution are encouraged to reach out to the Maryland Higher Education Commission through the Office of Student Financial Assistance at osfamail.mhec@maryland.gov.
Officials have indicated that staff members will be available to guide students and assist them in exploring the financial aid options necessary for continuing their education.
University System of Maryland Chancellor Jay Perman stated, “The University System of Maryland is dedicated to helping these displaced students. Our objective is to allow these students to continue their education with minimal disruption.”
Linda R. Gooden, Chair of the University System of Maryland Board of Regents, expressed empathy for the students who were eager to further their educational pursuits at Howard University. “In Maryland, the University System of Maryland is fully aligned with the Moore-Miller Administration in support of these students and is prepared to provide options for those wishing to continue their higher education journey with determination.”
