Types of financial aid

Did you know that an estimated 75% of college students receive some form of financial aid? This means that that the "sticker price" of a college is rarely what you end up paying! Here is a list of the different types of financial aid you may receive when the time comes:

Grants

FREE money from the government that you don't need to pay back! They are typically based on income & GPA. (Apply through FAFSA or CA Dream Act Application).

Scholarships

FREE money from schools or organizations that you don't need to pay back! Scholarships can be based on a wide variety of factors, including income, GPA, race, ethnicity, gender, religion, academic or career interests, and more. (Students need to do their own research to find scholarships they are eligible for).

Loans

Money that is borrowed from a bank or other financial institution. The money must be paid back with interest, meaning you will have to pay back more than you originally borrowed! Typically, student loans are paid back a little bit each month over the course of many years. (Apply through FAFSA or CA Dream Act Application).

Work Study

On or off campus job that is obtained through the college or university where you don't pay taxes on the money you earn! Students qualify based on their family's income. (Apply through FAFSA or CA Dream Act Application).