FAFSA DEADLINE IS March 2
Our basic eligibility requirements are that you must
demonstrate financial need for need-based federal student aid programs;
be a U.S. citizen or an eligible noncitizen;
have a valid Social Security number (with the exception of students from the Republic of the Marshall Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, or the Republic of Palau);
be enrolled or accepted for enrollment as a regular student in an eligible degree or certificate program;
maintain satisfactory academic progress in college or career school;
provide consent and approval to have your federal tax information transferred directly into your 2024–25 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) form, if you’re applying for aid for July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025;
sign the certification statement on the FAFSA form stating that you’re not in default on a federal student loan, you do not owe money on a federal student grant, and you’ll only use federal student aid for educational purposes; and
show you’re qualified to obtain a college or career school education.
The following documents are required to apply for financial aid:
Student social security number (if applicable)
Parent social security number or tax identification number (if applicable) & birthdates
Date arrived to CA if not born in state, Marriage/Divorce/Separation date (if applicable)
For students starting college Fall 2025: 2022 1040, 1040A, or 1040EZ federal income tax return
For students starting college Spring 2024: 2021 1040, 1040A, or 1040EZ federal income tax return
Current business information (if applicable)
Information on untaxed income such as alimony, child support, and public assistance
Email accounts for both parents and students
Tips for applying to financial aid:
The FAFSA and CA DREAM Act applications are always FREE
All seniors are recommended to file an application for financial aid regardless of family income level
Scholarships!
SCHOLARSHIP DATABASES – SEARCH FOR SCHOLARSHIPS ON YOUR OWN!
Open an account, create a profile and be matched with scholarships! You will be provided with requirements, deadlines, and information about the application process for individual scholarships.
https://www.dosomething.org (Earn scholarships by doing community service projects)
https://studentaid.ed.gov/sa/types/grants-scholarships/military (Financial Aid information for military families)
https://www.careeronestop.org/toolkit/training/find-scholarships.aspx (Search for scholarships based on career goals)
https://www.hsf.net/scholarship (Scholarships for students of Hispanic heritage)
http://collegefund.org/ (Scholarships for Native American Indian students)
http://www.e4fc.org/ (Scholarships for undocumented / DACA students)
https://tmcf.org/ (Scholarships for first-generation African-American students attending a HBCU)
https://www.uncf.org (Scholarships for African-American students)
https://www.automotivescholarships.com/apply_online.cfm (Scholarships for automotive, heavy duty or collision repair technicians, as well as those studying engineering, accounting, business or other courses of study)
https://application.horatioalger.org (Scholarships for career and technical education programs)
The California Dream Act Application (CADAA) is a state financial aid application designed for undocumented students, including those with DACA status, U visa holders, and students with Temporary Protected Status (TPS). It allows eligible students to apply for state financial aid to attend California colleges, universities, and career education programs.
How to Apply:
Create an Account: Visit the official CADAA portal at dream.csac.ca.gov to create your account.
Complete the Application: Fill out the application with accurate information. You'll need details about your family's income and taxes.
Submit Your GPA: If you're applying for a Cal Grant, ensure your GPA is submitted by the March 2 deadline. Most high schools and community colleges automatically submit GPAs, but check with your institution to confirm.
Verify Your Information: After submission, monitor your email for any requests for additional documentation or corrections.
Cal Grants: Financial aid based on need and academic performance.
California College Promise Grant (CCPG): Fee waivers for eligible students attending California community colleges.
Middle Class Scholarship: Assistance for students from middle-income families attending UC or CSU campuses.
University Grants: Institution-specific aid offered by UC and CSU campuses.
Work-Study Programs: Part-time employment opportunities to help cover educational expenses.