There is a lot of financial aid out there to help students pay for college. All students are encouraged to submit the FAFSA or California Dream Act in order to be eligible to receive financial aid. If you are unsure which application you should fill out, please ask your counselor. Do not submit your application without having a counselor review it to avoid common mistakes which can delay your financial aid award. 

General Financial Aid Resources
​(click on links below to view more information)

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

To apply for federal student aid, such as federal grants, work-study, and loans, you need to complete the FAFSA. Completing and submitting the FAFSA is free, and it gives you access to the largest source of financial aid to pay for college or career school. In addition, many states and colleges use your FAFSA information to determine your eligibility for state and school aid, and some private financial aid providers may use your FAFSA information to determine whether you qualify for their aid. The 2022–23 FAFSA form will become available on Oct. 1st, 2021, for the 2022–22 award year and the priority deadline to submit is March 2nd 2022. Some funds run out, so submit your application prior to the deadline!

​Visit the following link to see if you are eligible to apply for the FAFSA or view the eligibility graphic: Eligibility Requirements & Eligibility Graphic

Helpful Links and Resources​

How to create an FSA ID tutorial:

This video will walk you through the process of creating your own FSA ID. An FSA ID is simply a username and password combination, which can be used to securely log in to U.S. Department of Education websites like https://fafsa.gov. If you plan to fill out the FAFSA when it becomes available in October, you (and your parent if you're a dependent student) should create an FSA ID ASAP. For more details, visit https://StudentAid.gov/fsaid





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​Troubleshooting Your Account Username and Password (FSA ID):

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​Determining Your Dependency Status:
Are you ready to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, but are unsure whether you'll need to provide parental information on the form?
Check out this video to help you determine whether you're an independent or dependent student. For additional information, visit http://StudentAid.gov.

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FSA ID and FAFSA Overview Workshop Recording



​FAFSA Application Step-by-Step

California Dream Act (CADAA)

The California Dream Act allows some undocumented students to apply for and receive state-based financial aid and institutional scholarships. Passing the California Dream Act symbolizes a milestone victory for undocumented students and allies in California who organized and advocated for increased access to college. This represents a critical investment in undocumented students and in the future of California.
The types of aid included in the CA Dream Act are: Cal Grants, UC Grants, State University Grants, California College Promise Grant and EOP or EOPS grants. It also includes the Middle-Class Scholarships and school-specific scholarships. The CA Dream Act can also give you access to Dream Loans at the CSU or UC, even if you are undocumented. (https://immigrantsrising.org/resource/ca-dream-act-overview/)

Is it safe to apply? Don’t be afraid to fill out the CADAA. Your information will only be used to figure out if you can get state financial aid. It won’t be shared with the federal government or used for immigration enforcement. 

Helpful Links and Resources​

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"How To" Dream Act Video:

Dream Act Presentation:

Cal-Grant

​The California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) awards Cal Grants to eligible California students. A grant is money that you don't need to pay back. You apply for all Cal Grants – there are multiple types -- when you complete your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or California Dream Act application and have your high school provide a verified grade point average (GPA) to CSAC. Selection is based on financial need, academic performance and other factors. You must apply for a Cal Grant by the March 2 deadline by filing your FAFSA or Dream Act application and ensuring your school submits your verified GPA. (https://www2.calstate.edu/attend/paying-for-college/financial-aid/types/Pages/cal-grants.aspx)

Helpful Links and Resources​

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​What are the basic requirements for all Cal Grant awards?To qualify for a Cal Grant, you must:
  • Submit the FAFSA or CADAA by March 2.
  • Make sure your Cal Grant GPA is submitted by March 2.
    • Your high school will probably do this for you automatically. 
  • Be a California resident for at least one year and one day. 
  • Be a U.S. citizen, an eligible non-citizen, or AB 540/AB 2000/SB 68 eligible. 
  • Meet U.S. Selective Service requirements. 
  • Enroll at least half-time at a participating college 
    • All CCC, CSU, and UC campuses participate. Most private colleges and trade schools in California do, too. 
  • Have financial need at your college. 
  • Not exceed income and asset ceilings 
https://www.californiacolleges.edu/#/cal-grant

"How To" Video: