The 2026-2027 FAFSA and CADAA are now open!
Priority Deadline - March 2, 2026
Even though the priority deadline has passed, you can still apply and qualify for certain types of aid.
Student who are attending Palomar College in the Fall MUST submit the FAFSA/CADAA to qualify for the Palomar Promise (2 years of free tuition)!
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
Students should only file one application - either the FAFSA or the CADAA. Use the flow chart below to help determine which one you should submit.
