Maximizing your financial aid package is crucial to making your college education more affordable. Meeting priority deadlines ensures you receive the most aid possible, whether it’s federal, state, or institutional.

Remember, you need to reapply for financial aid every year, and even if you’ve already paid your college bill, you may still be eligible for financial aid reimbursement. Be sure to keep track of the important dates below and consult the Financial Aid Office for any questions.

Important Dates to Remember

October 1 – March 1

Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the upcoming academic year at www.fafsa.gov. Remember, the FAFSA doesn’t renew automatically—you must reapply each academic year. Use your prior-prior year’s federal tax documents (e.g., for the 2024-2025 academic year, use 2022 tax documents).

Complete the FAFSA

March 1

Submit the FAFSA by this date to be considered for Maryland State scholarships, including Promise.

Learn More About MD State Scholarships

Mid to Late April

Submit the Chesapeake College Institutional Scholarship form by this time to be considered for institutional scholarships. Deadlines vary yearly, so check the scholarship application for the exact date. Pay close attention to private scholarship deadlines as well, as they vary.

Apply for Institutional Scholarships

May 1

Submit the FAFSA by this date to be considered for federal financial aid for the Fall semester. While you can apply anytime during the academic year, earlier applications may yield more financial aid based on eligibility.

Complete the FAFSA

December 1

Submit the FAFSA by this date to be considered for federal financial aid for the Spring semester.

Complete the FAFSA

View All Important Dates

Explore the current academic calendar for more information on registration deadlines, semester start and end dates, college holidays, pay-by dates, drop dates, and more.