All seniors must complete a FAFSA or CADAA no later than March 2, 2026. *
The FAFSA/CADAA applications are OPEN now!
What is a FAFSA/CADAA?
FAFSA stands for Free Application for Federal Student Aid and CADAA stands for California Dream Act Application (CADAA). Both serve as the applications for California State aid (Cal Grant, Middle Income Scholarship, Promise Program). The completion of a FAFSA or CADAA is also required in order to receive institutional awards and scholarships like academic, athletic, or departmental monies at your college. If you are not sure about which form your should complete, click the link below under "Helpful Links" to find out more.
What is Student Aid?
Student Aid comes in different forms, offered at the Federal level, state level and institutional level. Grants = FREE money, Scholarships = FREE money, Loans = money that has to be paid back, Work Study = money earned through campus work.
Why complete a FAFSA/CADAA?
Simply put, access. If you do not complete a FAFSA or CADAA you will not know what you may qualify for. If you do not know what you qualify for, your access to college and career training programs may be limited based on how much cash you are able to pay for college or trade/technical school. You may be surprised at the student aid that is available for all income levels. Also, in the state of California, the completion of a FAFSA or CADAA is a graduation requirement.
Helpful Links
What is the FAFSA and why should I fill it out?
What is a CADAA and why should I fill it out?
FAFSA or CADAA, which one should I complete?
FAFSA Walkthrough Video (presented by University of the Pacific)
8 Steps for Parents Completing the FAFSA form
How to Complete the FAFSA
Financial Aid Programs - California
FAFSA/CADAA Workshops
Financial Aid and Resources for Undocumented Students in California
*California Education Code (CEC) § 51225.7 requires a local educational agency to confirm each 12th-grade student’s completion and submission of a FAFSA or CADAA unless the student is determined to be exempt or an opt-out form is completed. Opt out forms are available in the College and Career Center, room A222.
