FAFSA: Free Application for Federal Student Aid
Most Frequently asked QuestionsWhat is financial Aid?
Financial aid is any money being given to a student pursuing a higher education after high school. This includes community colleges, universities, trade/vocational schools, and credential programs.
Who is eligible to receive financial aid?
Any student pursuing a higher education: US citizens, Non-US citizens
Where does financial aid come from?
One or more of the below entities might provide Financial Aid:
The Federal Government, the State, a college, a private organization, a business
What are the 3 types of finacial aid?
Free Money- Grants and scholarships
Borrowed Money- Loans
Earned Money- Work Study
FAFSA STEPS:
(U.S Citizens and or legal Residents) :
Obtain an FSA ID For student here : FSA ID
Obtain an FSA ID For one parent: (same link as above)
(It can take up to 2 days for them to verify you with your FSA ID before you can complete the FAFSA application below)
CA DREAM ACT APPLICATION STEPS:
(The California Dream Act allows undocumented students, DACA recipients (valid or expired), U Visa holders and students under Temporary Protected Status (TPS) to receive certain types of financial aid such as: private scholarships funded through public universities, state administered financial aid, university grants, community college fee waivers, and Cal Grants. In addition, the California Dream Act, allows eligible students to pay in-state tuition at any public college in California. )
If you are not eligible to complete the FAFSA and are eligible under AB540 then you can complete the California Dream Act Application (CADAA)
CADAA
CA GRANT
888-224-7268
Email: studentsupport@csac.ca.gov
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is required for most types of Financial Aid, including scholarships. It is the key to paying for university, community college, or technical school. Current seniors should submit a FAFSA for the 2025-2026 academic year. The FAFSA is due by March 2nd
Financial Aid Info (MiraCosta College Presentation- Oct 2024)
Financial Aid Info (Spanish) (MiraCosta College Presentation - Oct 2024)
Financial Aid Handout (MiraCosta College)
Net-Price Calculator: Watch this brief video to better understand how an institution's net price calculator can assist with financial planning
2025-2026 FAFSA Essential Information
Resources:
Cal SOAP San Diego -- College access program that hosts financial aid workshops, events and webinars as well as individual financial aid application assistance.
Review the resources below to prepare for the 2025-2026 application changes.
*Create your FSA ID now to prepare for the new form*
Free Application for Federal Student Aid – FAFSA — Helpful Links:
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