MD HB700

Establishes a direct admission program beginning in the 2027-2028 academic year at participating public senior higher education institutions for Maryland high school students who meet the college and career readiness (CCR) standard in English language arts, mathematics, and science.

Participation by public senior higher education institutions (University System of Maryland, Morgan State University, and St. Mary's College of Maryland) is voluntary, but participating institutions must waive application fees and offer conditional direct admission to eligible students.

Maryland Higher Education Commission will administer the program through its financial aid system and the Common Application, generating customized lists of participating institutions for each eligible student.

Participating institutions may establish additional course requirements or criteria beyond the CCR standard, and may revoke admission offers if students fail to graduate, engage in academic misconduct, or experience significantly declining grades.

Direct admission does not guarantee placement in any specific academic program, college, or school within the participating institution; the act takes effect July 1, 2026.