Financial Aid

💰 Key Financial Aid Resources for California Students

1. FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)

The FAFSA is the primary application for federal financial aid, including Pell Grants, federal loans, and work-study opportunities. It also serves as the basis for determining eligibility for many state and institutional aid programs. Students can access the FAFSA at studentaid.gov

2. California Dream Act Application (CADAA)

Undocumented students and those who meet specific eligibility criteria can apply for state financial aid through the CADAA. This application allows access to Cal Grants and other state-funded aid without sharing information with federal immigration authorities. Students can apply via dream.csac.ca.gov

3. Cal Grants

Cal Grants are California's primary state-funded financial aid program, offering funds for tuition, fees, and living expenses. To qualify, students must submit the FAFSA or CADAA and a GPA verification form by the March 2 deadline. More information is available at www.csac.ca.gov/cal-grants

4. Chafee Grant for Foster Youth

This grant provides up to $5,000 annually for current or former foster youth pursuing post-secondary education or vocational training. Eligibility and application details can be found at www.chafee.csac.ca.gov

5. CalKIDS

CalKIDS is California's college savings account program, offering up to $1,500 in seed money for eligible public school students with experience in foster care or homelessness. Learn more at www.calkids.org

6. Cash for College Workshops

These workshops provide students and families with assistance in completing the FAFSA and CADAA applications. They are offered both in-person and virtually across California. Registration and more information are available at www.cash4college.csac.ca.gov

7. uAspire Financial Aid Trainings

uAspire offers live virtual trainings for counselors and college access staff, focusing on financial aid topics such as FAFSA completion and understanding the Student Aid Index (SAI). Upcoming sessions can be found at www.uaspire.org

PRIORITY DEADLINE FOR FAFSA/CADAA IS

OCTOBER 1, 2025 - MARCH 2, 2026

Meet with your counselor to get support!

California law (AB 469) encourages all high school seniors to complete a financial aid application—either the FAFSA or the California Dream Act Application (CADAA)—to help pay for college. These applications can unlock grants, scholarships, and even free community college!

What this means for students and families:

Everyone is encouraged to apply. Completing the FAFSA or CADAA helps students access money for college, even if they don’t think they qualify.
Opt-out option available. Families who choose not to participate, please contact your child's counselor.
Priority matters. To be considered for free community college programs and other state aid, applications should be submitted during the priority window (by April 2 for most students).
We’re here to help. Your Post-Secondary Counselor can guide you through the process, answer questions, and provide resources to make it easy.

Helpful links:

FAFSA
California Dream Act Application
Cal Grants

Create your FSA ID

(Updated July 2022)

Completing the FAFSA Form

(Updated January 2025)

What Happens After Submitting?

(Updated October 2024)