Financial Aid

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Information

What is the FAFSA?

The FAFSA is the form you need to fill out to get financial aid from the federal government to help pay for college. Each year, over 13 million students who file the FAFSA get more than $120 billion in grants, work-study, and low-interest loans from the U.S. Department of Education. 

Many states and colleges also use the FAFSA to determine which students get financial aid - and how much they'll get. 

The FAFSA asks for information about you and your family's finances, including tax returns, so you might need your parents' help to complete it. If you need additional help, reach out to your school counselor. 

You are eligible to complete the FAFSA if you are a:

• U.S. Citizen 

• Permanent Resident 

• Eligible non-citizen 

• T Visa holder

When is the deadline to submit the FAFSA?

If you are planning on attending college in the next academic year, you should complete the FAFSA in the fall of your senior year. You can file as early as October 1. It's a good idea to submit the application as soon as possible because financial aid is often given out on a first-come, first-served basis. 

• State deadline: March 2 is the last day you can apply for the state of California. 

• Federal deadline: June 30 is the last day you can apply for federal aid for the following academic year. 

California Dream Act Application (CADAA) Information 

What is the California Dream Act? 

The California Dream Act allows undocumented students, DACA recipients (valid or expired), U Visa holders and students under Temporary Protected Status (TPS), who qualify for non-resident exemption under Assembly Bill 540 (AB 540), Senate Bill 2000 (SB 2000) and Senate Bill 68 (SB 68), to receive certain types of financial aid such as: private scholarships funded through public universities, state administered financial aid, university grants, community college fee waivers, and Cal Grants. 

In addition, the California Dream Act, allows eligible students to pay in-state tuition at any public college in California. 

You are eligible to complete the CADAA if you are:

• Undocumented 

• Have a valid or expired DACA

• U Visa holders 

• Have Temporary Protected Status (TPS)

When is the deadline to submit the CADAA?

All students are encouraged to apply by the March 2 priority deadline to maximize their financial aid options. Students attending a CA Community College can apply by September 2. 

Remember: You should send in your financial aid application as soon as you can, regardless of deadlines. There's a lot of financial aid out there - give yourself the best shot at getting the most assistance by applying early.