Financial Aid

You want to go to college. You know it’s important for your future success. But going to college costs a lot. You have to pay for tuition and fees, books, a place to live, and a way to get around. You’re probably wondering how you’ll pay for it all. Here’s some good news:

There’s a lot of money out there to help you pay for college. It’s called financial aid, and everyone should apply for it! 

There are two different financial aid applications, but you only need to complete one! The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the California Dream Act Application (CADAA). To begin the application process, please sign in to your California Colleges account. 

FAFSA / CADAA applications open October 2025. The priority deadline is March 2, 2026.

The FAFSA is an application operated by the US Department of Education and the Office of Federal Student Aid (FSA) that allows students to qualify for federal, state and institutional aid. 

 You are eligible to complete the FAFSA if you:

• Are a US Citizen

• Are a Permanent Resident ("Green Card" holder)

• Have a T-Visa

• Are an Eligible Non-Citizen

The CADAA is California's state financial aid application operated by CSAC that allows undocumented and other eligible students to qualify for state and institutional financial aid.

 You are eligible to complete the CADAA if you:

• Are Undocumented

• Have a U-Visa or Temporary Protected Status (TPS)

• Meet the CA non-resident exemption requirements. 

• Have a T-Visa

What kinds of financial aid can you get?

 Grants and Scholarships

• Grants and scholarships are free money. Sometimes, they’re called “gift aid.” You don’t have to pay them back. 

• They’re the best kind of financial aid. 

• The money may come from the federal or state government, your college, private organizations, or companies. 

Work-Study

• Work-study is earned money. 

• After free money, it’s your next best option for paying for college. 

• You’ll work part-time while you go to school.  

• Jobs may be on- or off-campus. They may be related to your major or focus on community service. 

• Work-Study money may come from the federal government or your college. 

Loans

• Loans are borrowed money. After you graduate, you’ll have to pay it back, plus interest.

• If free and earned money aren’t enough to pay for college, you may need a student loan.

• Federal loans cost less over time than most private loans. They also offer more ways to pay the money back. 

Need help with your financial aid application?

Attend one of the free Cash for College workshops hosted by CSAC. Financial experts will be available to help you complete your FAFSA or CADAA and answer all of your questions! Both online webinarsa and in-person workshops near you are available.