There are many sources of financial assistance students can access while planning for, applying to, and attending college. The main types of financial aid are; Federal and Private Student Loans (subsidized and unsubsidized), Scholarships, Work Study, and Grants. Each family has different circumstances and unique situations that may alter the amount of aid they can receive. 

The first step in accessing financial aid should always start with completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). It is now a state requirement that all California high school seniors complete the application! This is because over $550,000,000 in federal aid goes left unclaimed each year. This application, which should be completed every year while attending college, will tell you exactly how much financial assistance you may qualify based on your economic situation, including loans, federal and local grants, as well as scholarships from colleges and universities. Head to the FAFSA & CADAA tab to learn more about financial aid applications!

Scholarships are also available at the national, state, and local level to any students who meet the minimum requirements for applying. Application requirements may vary depending on demographics, school grade level, subject interest of study, among other things. Head to the Scholarships tab to start your scholarship search!