An overview of the Federal Pell Grant, a need-based grant that provides financial aid to eligible undergraduate students and does not need to be repaid.
A guide to Parent PLUS Loans, federal loans available to parents of dependent undergraduate students to help pay for educational expenses not covered by other financial aid.
A concise guide outlining various types of financial aid available in California, including state, institutional, and federal programs, with details on eligibility and benefits.
Cal Grants are awards that the recipient does not repay. To receive a Cal Grant, submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and a verified Grade Point Average with the California Student Aid Commission by no later than March 2nd. Most schools or school districts will submit the GPA verification on behalf of their students. Please check with your school.
If you are or were in foster care for at least one day, between the ages of 16 and 18 as a dependent or ward of the court and have financial need, you may qualify for up to a free $5,000 a year for career and technical training or college. Learn more and apply here.
The Middle Class Scholarship provides financial aid to eligible undergraduate students with family incomes and assets up to $234,000, covering a portion of tuition costs at University of California (UC) or California State University (CSU) campuses.
Some students should fill out the FAFSA applications while others will need to fill out the California Dream Act Application (each student should only complete one). Visit this website to see which application you should fill out to receive money for college. If you're eligible for the California Dream Act Application scroll down to the "Resources for Undocumented Students" section for more resources!
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the federal application for financial aid. Students may also use the application to apply for aid from other sources, such as their state or school. The deadlines for your state or schools may differ from the federal deadlines, and you may be required to complete additional forms. Filling out and submitting the FAFSA is ALWAYS free of charge.
If you're filling out the FAFSA you’ll need to create an FSA ID to log into your account. Whether you're a student, parent, or borrower, you should create your FSA ID here.
A resource outlining how to review, update, and correct information on your FAFSA after submission to ensure accuracy and maximize financial aid eligibility.
A guide explaining how to address unusual financial or family circumstances when applying for federal student aid, including tips for requesting a professional judgment review.
A resource providing contact information and support services from the Federal Student Aid Information Center (FSAIC) to assist students and families with federal financial aid inquiries.
An announcement detailing updates from Federal Student Aid (FSA) to improve support for individuals without Social Security numbers, including enhancements to the FAFSA process.
A FAQ document providing detailed information about the California Dream Act Application (CADAA), including eligibility, benefits, and application guidance.
The California Dream Act Application allows undocumented students looking to enroll in eligible California Colleges, Universities, and Career Education Programs to apply for state financial aid. This application is unrelated to the federal Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program.
A comparison guide helping California students determine whether to apply for the FAFSA or the CA Dream Act based on their eligibility and immigration status.
A guide addressing common issues encountered during the California Dream Act Application (CADAA) process, along with solutions and tips for successful submission.
A resource providing guidance and information for mixed-status families navigating the financial aid process, including details on eligibility and application steps for the FAFSA or the CADAA.
A resource explaining the California Dream Act Application (CADAA) process for students from mixed-status families, including guidance on eligibility and required information.
A joint message from the California Department of Education (CDE) and the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) emphasizing the protection and confidentiality of student information for California Dream Act Application (CADAA) applicants.
An announcement detailing updates from Federal Student Aid (FSA) to improve support for individuals without Social Security numbers, including enhancements to the FAFSA process.
This resource provides information about residency requirements, tuition, college eligibility, financial aid, and other steps and tools for undocumented students.
Immigrants Rising’s In-State Tuition Tool (ISTT) helps you determine if you meet eligibility for in-state tuition (AB 540/SB 68) in California. This is especially helpful for students that may be undocumented.
Information on the California Nonresident Tuition Exemption, which allows eligible students, including undocumented individuals, to pay in-state tuition rates at California public colleges and universities.
A detailed FAQ guide from the California Student Aid Commission addressing common questions about the California Dream Act Application (CADAA), including eligibility, benefits, and application tips.
A resource hub from the California Student Aid Commission providing financial aid information and support for undocumented students, including details on the California Dream Act Application (CADAA).
The California Dream Act Service Incentive Grant (DSIG) provides financial aid to eligible California Dream Act applicants who complete community or volunteer service hours.
A comprehensive financial aid checklist for the Class of 2025, guiding students through FAFSA, CADAA, and CSS Profile applications, with key deadlines, steps, and tips for securing financial aid.
This tool will help students compare different financial aid awards they received from different schools. This can help students make a choice on which college to attend after they have received their acceptances. To edit this document, click "File" in the top left corner, then click "Make a copy."
A tool from the IRS allowing individuals to securely access and download their tax transcripts online for financial or tax-related purposes. If selected for VERIFICATION, you will need to obtain a tax transcript.
A resource providing information about tuition costs, financial aid options, and scholarships available to students attending the University of California.
