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Unlock Your Future with Financial Aid
Unlock Your Future with Financial Aid
California now requires all high school seniors to complete the FAFSA (Education Code 51225.7) if they plan to attend a university, community college, or trade school in the 2026-27 school year. The deadline to apply is March 2, 2026
Applying for financial aid is a crucial step in making higher education accessible and affordable. Financial aid can significantly reduce the financial burden of tuition, fees, and other educational expenses, allowing students to focus on their studies and future careers. Whether you are pursuing a degree at a community college, university, or trade school, there are numerous resources available to help you finance your education.
PLEASE NOTE: As a parent, submitting the FAFSA does not obligate you to pay for college costs. It simply gives consent for your student to access available financial aid, including grants and other resources that can help cover expenses beyond tuition. Without your consent, your student will only qualify for unsubsidized loans.
Please complete one of the following by March 2, 2026
Please complete one of the following by March 2, 2026
The state requires either a FAFSA submission or an Opt-Out Form submission by the deadline. Please choose an option below.
OPTION 1: FAFSA Submission:
OPTION 1: FAFSA Submission:
Create an Account: studentaid.gov.
Gather Required Documents: SSNs, tax returns, financial records
Start FAFSA: studentaid.gov
The Class of 2026 will complete a 2026-27 FAFSA Form.
Invite Parent(s) to FAFSA Form (guidance here)
Parent Completes Their Portion (via their own StudentAid.gov account)
Sign & Submit (both student & parent will "sign" the FAFSA electronically within their own accounts)
If you are a student who is not a U.S. Citizen, please complete a CADAA application in place of the FAFSA.
OPTION 2: Opt-Out Form:
OPTION 2: Opt-Out Form:
If opting out, complete FAFSA/CADAA Opt-Out Form and return it to the College & Career Center by March 2, 2026.
Key Financial Aid Resources
Key Financial Aid Resources
1. FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)
The FAFSA is the cornerstone of federal financial aid. By completing the FAFSA, you can access a variety of federal grants, work-study funds, and loans to help pay for college. Many states and colleges also use the FAFSA to determine eligibility for their financial aid programs.
Application Period: October 1st - June 30th (for the upcoming academic year)
2. CADAA (California Dream Act Application)
The CADAA allows undocumented and nonresident documented students who meet certain criteria to apply for state financial aid. This includes Cal Grants, Chafee Grants, Middle-Class Scholarships, and other institutional aid.
Application Period: October 1st - March 2nd
3. Cal Grant
Cal Grants are need-based financial aid awards that do not need to be repaid. They are available to California residents who attend qualifying colleges, universities, and career or technical schools in California.
Application Period: Submit FAFSA or CADAA by March 2nd. EDHS automatically submits all senior GPA Verifications to Cal Grant in the fall of their senior year.
Additional Resources
Additional Resources
CSS Profile
The College Scholarship Service (CSS) Profile is used by many private colleges and universities to award their own financial aid funds. It is a more detailed application than the FAFSA and may require a fee to submit.
Scholarship Search Engines
Explore a wide range of scholarships that can help reduce the cost of your education. Websites like Fastweb, Scholarships.com, and the College Board Scholarship Search provide extensive databases of scholarship opportunities.
Fastweb: Fastweb
Scholarships.com: Scholarships.com
College Board Scholarship Search: College Board
Tips for Applying for Financial Aid
Tips for Applying for Financial Aid
Start Early: Many financial aid programs have deadlines. Missing a deadline can mean missing out on valuable aid.
Be Accurate: Ensure all the information you provide is accurate and complete. Mistakes can delay your application or reduce the amount of aid you receive.
Seek Help: If you have questions or need assistance, reach out to the College & Career Center or use online resources for guidance.
By taking advantage of these financial aid resources, you can unlock opportunities for a brighter future and achieve your educational goals with less financial stress.
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