EXHIBIT 23.1

              CONSENT OF ERNST & YOUNG LLP, INDEPENDENT AUDITORS

      We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement
(Form S-8, No. 333-41869) pertaining to the 1997 Director Stock Option Plan, the
Registration Statement (Form S-8, No. 333-41867) pertaining to the 1997 Employee
Stock Purchase Plan and the Registration Statement (Form S-8, No. 333-41871)
pertaining to the 1997 Equity Incentive Plan of MAXIMUS, Inc., of our report
dated November 13, 1998 with respect to the consolidated financial statements of
MAXIMUS, Inc. included in the Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended
September 30, 1998.

                                    /s/ Ernst & Young LLP


Washington, DC
November 23, 1998