The new and improved FAFSA is open! Graduates heading to any post-secondary program should fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). FAFSA is not just for learners headed to four-year colleges. Federal and state aid is also available to learners who are headed to community college and trade school!
The FAFSA is an online form. Learners and their parents will each make an account and provide financial information, allowing the federal government and the state of California to award need-based financial aid, loans, and work-study. Colleges also use this form to determine institutional-based aid. Some colleges also require FAFSA for merit aid and promise programs.
Students applying to four-year colleges should apply as soon as possible. Learners heading to California community college must apply by the April 1 deadline. Apply here.
Learners who are undocumented should use the California Dream Act Application (CADAA) to qualify for Cal Grants and institutional aid in California. Apply here.