The Department of Education and the state of California provide grants (free money you don’t have to pay back) to attend accredited colleges. Grants and scholarships do not have to be repaid. Some students also qualify for low-interest student loans which require repayment. This includes all California Community Colleges, CSU, UC, and many vocational schools.
Additionally, the state of California has grants for undocumented students to get the training and education they desire.
What is the difference between the FAFSA and the California Dream Act application?
To apply for federal student aid, such as federal grants, work-study, and loans, you need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Deadlines apply.
The Federal Deadline for FAFSA® forms is 11:59 p.m. Central time (CT) on June 30, 2022. Any corrections or updates must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. CT on Sept. 10, 2022.
Each state has its own deadline. Click here for a list of state deadlines
The California Dream Act allows undocumented and nonresident students (U.S. Citizens and eligible non-citizens) who qualify for a non-resident exemption under Assembly Bill 540 (AB 540) to receive certain types of financial aid such as: private scholarships funded through public universities, state administered financial aid, university grants, community college fee waivers, and Cal Grants. In addition, the California Dream Act, allows eligible students to pay in-state tuition at any public college in California. Deadlines apply.
This chart provides a quick reference to determine the types of aid you may qualify for at California community colleges
CAL GRANT ELIGIBLE SCHOOL LIST
Cal Grant also requires submission of a school-certified GPA in march - check webiste for details.
Cal Grants (A, B & C) pay different amounts, dependent on whether the student is attending a UC, CSU, community college or private institution. Deadlines apply.
CAL GRANT C: FREE MONEY to students pursuing occupational or technical education.
CAL GRANT C PRIORITY OCCUPATIONAL LIST
Students who have been in foster care may qualify for funds to help pay for career and technical training or college. This money does not need to be paid back. The Chafee Grant can be used at any eligible California college or university, career or technical school, as well as schools in other states.
The California College Promise Grant is available only for students at California Community Colleges. The California College Promise Grant waives the per-unit enrollment fee (currently $46). The following link is for the California College Promise Grant: 2020 - 2021 Application, also available in Spanish. Once the application is complete, it should be mailed or hand deliver it to your community college's financial aid office. Deadlines apply.
Students must meet the eligibility requirements for this reimbursement program.
Click here for Eligibility and FAQ
The Middle Class Scholarship (MCS) provides undergraduate students, including students pursuing a teaching credential, with family incomes and assets up to $177,000 a scholarship to attend University of California (UC) or California State University (CSU) campuses.
List of undergraduate scholarships/fellowships and graduate scholarships/fellowships that don't require proof of U.S. Citizenship. Deadlines apply. Includes scholarships for Vocational training. This list also includes scholarships for the LGBTQ community.
Some low-income individuals may qualify for training through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunities Act (WIOA). The Alameda County Workforce Development Board has limited WIOA funds available for low-income individuals to get the training they need to earn an industry-recognized certificate. Meet with a career navigator from Ohlone College Career Ventures located at the Ohlone College Newark Center and see if you qualify. Qualified participants may receive financial assistance towards education/training, work-based learning, internships, and on-the-job training.
The FAFSA and Dream Act applications have set deadlines that do not apply to WIOA. WIOA has its own set of guidelines and requirements.
For more information on training opportunities, please contact the Ohlone College Career Ventures, located at the Ohlone College Newark, CA campus or check One-Stop Locator for your local career center.
For comprehensive career and employment services, please contact the Ohlone College Tri-Cities Career Center.