Maryland families interested in a Catholic education for their children can take advantage of two state programs: BOOST scholarships and Maryland 529 education savings plans.
Anyone in Maryland can open a Maryland 529 education savings plan for a child. Up to $10,000 can be used each year for K-12 tuition in Maryland (or saved for college later on). These plans offer tax benefits plus, if you apply by May 31, you can be eligible for up to $500 in matching funds.
BOOST is a very popular scholarship program available for Maryland students who are eligible for FARMs (free or reduced–price school meals). Parents must apply by June 30, 2023, for the fall.
Learn more about the plans below.
Apply for a BOOST Scholarship by June 30
The Maryland General Assemby authorized $9 million for 2023-24 BOOST scholarships. Families can apply for students currently in public school to transfer to a nonpublic school or for students already in a Catholic or private school to stay at their school.
The BOOST application website has lots of details, a list of participating schools and the application. (Use the “translate” button on the top right of the webpage for Spanish and other languages.)
Current BOOST families must submit an application each year for their BOOST students. These students and their siblings are prioritized.
We also have online resources to help parishes and other organizations get the word out to families who may be eligible for BOOST.
Use a 529 Savings Plan for K-12 Tuition
Maryland residents can use Maryland 529 education savings plans for K-12 tuition as well as college. Not only that, but the State of Maryland will match your Maryland 529 contributions — up to $500 per beneficiary — if you apply for the match by May 31.
These plans can be set up for a child by parents, grandparents, godparents, etc., with as little as $25 to start. And each plan owner is eligible to use up to $10,000 each year toward Maryland Catholic school tuition.
There are federal and state tax benefits as well. Please check the state website for details, which notes up to $2,500 in Maryland state tax savings per beneficiary plus tax-free qualified distributions (federal and state).
Please note: Nothing herein constitutes tax advice. You should consult a tax professional for more information.