Attending a college, university, career or technical school can be expensive. About three‐quarters of all students get some type of financial assistance. However, there are many financial aid resources available to achieve your post secondary goals, including:
Federal or California grants;
Scholarships through your parents’ employers, religious groups, private clubs, lodges, businesses, foundations, unions, community groups, private individuals, and various organizations. They can be based on such things as academic merit, SAT or ACT scores, competitive essay, field of study, special talent, ethnicity, leadership ability, community service activities, and athletics. Determine what are the terms and conditions to renew the scholarship (i.e. GPA);
Loans;
Work study programs; and
Tuition reimbursement programs from part‐time employers (for example, Bank of America and Starbucks).
It is never too early for you to explore the opportunities for financial aid while in high school. Getting these financial resources requires some research. Most financial aid is based on your need, not your academic performance.
It is important for you to fill out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or other required forms prior to deadline dates. In this way, colleges determine what type of financial aid you are entitled to as well as your family’s contribution. An online calculator (FAFSA4caster) has been developed to assist families in financial planning for federal student aid. Colleges offer different packages and amounts of financial aid. Compare the offers of financial aid from various schools and accept only what you want!
Free Application for Federal Student Aid
California Dream Act Application
In order to be eligible to fill out the FAFSA, the student must be a US citizen, or eligible non-citizen (green card holder) or fall under one of these categories
In order to be eligible to fill out the CADAA, the student must be classified as undocumented, have a valid or expired DACA, U Visa holders, have Temporary Protected Status (TPS) 2, meet the non-resident exemption requirements under AB 540.
If you are or an L1, H4 or another visa, you are likely not eligible to fill out either of the above. Research the colleges Financial Aid websites to see if you are eligible for aid without filling out the FAFSA/CADAA.