What is the FAFSA?

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the form students use to apply for federal, state, and college financial aid. 

Who should complete the FAFSA?

• U.S. citizens

• Permanent residents

• Students with a T visa

• Eligible non-citizens (such as green card holders)

Why is it important?
Filing the FAFSA gives you access to:

• Federal Pell Grants (free money for college!)

• Cal Grants (California state aid)

• Work-Study programs

• Federal student loans

• Some scholarships and aid from colleges

What is the CADAA?

The California Dream Act Application (CADAA) allows eligible undocumented and nonresident students to apply for state-based financial aid. 

Who should complete the CADAA?

• Undocumented students

• DACA recipients

• Students with a U visa or Temporary Protected Status (TPS)

• U.S. citizens whose parent(s) are undocumented (mixed-status families) can also apply for the CADAA if they do not want to submit a FAFSA

Why is it important?

Filing the CADAA helps student access:

• Cal Grants

• Community college tuition waivers (e.g., Palomar Promise)

• Some scholarships and campus-based aid