Maryland BOOST Scholarship
We do not administer or manage any programs. For help, visit the official program website.
Summary
The Maryland BOOST (Broadening Options and Opportunities for Students Today) Scholarship is a state-funded scholarship initiative in Maryland that aims to provide educational choices for low-income families. The BOOST program offers scholarships to children eligible for the free or reduced-price meals program (FARMS) to attend participating nonpublic schools of their choice.
Student Funding
Funding Type: Voucher
Maryland funds the BOOST Scholarship through the current budget and any carry-over from the previous year. The state mandates using a portion of the allocated funding to provide additional awards for students with documented special needs.
The award amounts are dependent on several factors, including household income, the academic level of the child, and any financial assistance that the school provides to the child. The BOOST Advisory Board meets in the summer to determine award amounts.
Student Eligibility
To be eligible for a Maryland BOOST Scholarship, children must qualify for the FARMS program. Priority is given to children who received a BOOST Scholarship the previous year and their siblings. As part of the application, parents upload their Federal 1040 tax returns to verify their annual income and household size.
Rules & Requirements
- Income Level: Families must qualify for the free or reduced-price meals program (FARMS).
- Residency: Applicants must be residents of Maryland.
- Educational Status: Students in grades K-12 must be enrolled (or plan to enroll) at a participating nonpublic school.
- School Requirements: Families can use funds at eligible nonpublic schools which have decided to participate in the Maryland BOOST Scholarship and meet state standards.
Using Your Funds
Families can use BOOST Scholarship funds to cover tuition costs at participating nonpublic schools, including religious institutions. The program sends a check to the school, and parents sign the back of the check at the school. If the BOOST Scholarship award exceeds the tuition owed, the program reduces the award amount to the school. If the parent has already made tuition payments to the school, then the school will owe the parent a refund.
How to Apply
- Review the Program Details: Review the Program Information Guide on the BOOST page of the Maryland Department of Education site which has important information for the Maryland BOOST Scholarship.
- Check Eligibility: Ensure your child meets the FARMS requirement.
- Gather Documentation: Collect required documents, including Federal 1040 tax return for the prior year.
- Choose an Eligible School: Research and select a participating nonpublic school. Information on participating nonpublic schools can be found on the BOOST page of the Maryland Department of Education site.
- Complete the Application: Follow the application process on the BOOST page of the Maryland Department of Education site during the open enrollment period.
- Submit: Review and submit the application along with any necessary documentation.
For other Maryland School Choice Programs: Refer to our Maryland State Summary.