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                                                                    EXHIBIT 23.1


                        Consent of 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 28, 1997 with respect to the financial statements of
MAXIMUS, Inc. included in the Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended
September 30, 1997.

                                                           /s/ ERNST & YOUNG LLP




Washington, DC
December 18, 1997