Rouse Company Foundation Student Services Building at Howard Community College

Home / Services & Support / Academic Support / Academic Support Programs / Parent Scholars Program

Parent Scholars Program

Group photo of Parent Scholars and children wearing “got kids? (so do I)” T-shirts at Howard Community College.

A Selective Program for Student Parents

The Parent Scholars Program provides support for eligible student parents who are selected to participate in this highly competitive, cohort-based program. Serving 145 students annually, the program offers individualized guidance to help participants balance the demands of college, work and family while accessing resources that support their academic, career and employment goals. Through personalized support and accountability, Parent Scholars build the skills, connections and confidence needed to persist, achieve their goals and complete their educational programs.

Benefits of the Parent Scholars Program

The Parent Scholars Program is a formal, structured program that connects participants with additional HCC and community services. Specific benefits include:

Academic coaching and college success strategies
Career counseling and workforce development support
Regular progress meetings and personalized check-ins
Wellness support and community resource referrals
Scholarship opportunities (when available)
Workshops, networking opportunities and family-friendly events
A supportive community of fellow student parents

Eligibility

You may be eligible for the Parent Scholars Program if you:

Are pregnant or parenting a dependent child.
Have a household income below the median household income for Howard County residents.
Are enrolled in, or plan to enroll in, an eligible Howard Community College credit or noncredit program.
Are committed to achieving your educational goals and completing your program of study.

Noncredit Student Eligibility

Must be enrolled in, or planning to enroll in, a GED, English language learning, workforce training, certification, apprenticeship, or other career-focused noncredit program.
Credit Student Eligibility
First-Semester Students
Must be eligible to enroll in college-level English and mathematics courses.

Returning Students
- Must have a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher.
- Must demonstrate placement into college-level English and mathematics through placement testing or another approved placement method.

Ready to apply to the Parent Scholars Program?

If you meet the program’s eligibility criteria and are a current, registered HCC student, complete the application below to be considered for the Parent Scholars Program.
Parent Scholars Program Application

Not yet an HCC student? Complete the HCC admissions application first. You can apply to the Parent Scholars Program once you are registered and meet the program's eligibility criteria.
Apply to HCC

HCC is committed to supporting students who are pregnant, parenting or sharing caregiving responsibilities. Learn about the resources, accommodations and support available to help you continue your education and achieve your goals free from discrimination.

Pregnant and Parenting Student Support Plan