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Financial Aid for College

Financial aid is money designed to help students pay for college or career school tuition, fees, books, and living expenses. It comes from federal, state, and institutional sources—including grants, scholarships, work-study jobs, and loans—and is awarded based on financial need or merit. Students must apply, typically in their senior year of high school using the FAFSA or CADAA forms. 
 
FAFSA vs CADAA— Which is the right application for me?

There are two different financial aid applications, but you only need to complete one! Remember, you will need to complete the application for each year you attend college.

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

The FAFSA is an application operated by the U.S. Department of Education and the Office of Federal Student Aid (FSA) that allows students to qualify for federal, state, and institutional financial aid.  

You are eligible to complete the FAFSA if you:

  • Are a US Citizen
  • Are a Permanent Resident ("Green Card" holder)
  • Have a T-Visa
  • Are an Eligible Non-citizen*
 
California Dream Act Application (CADAA)

The CADAA is California’s state financial aid application operated by CSAC that allows undocumented and other eligible students to qualify for state and institutional financial aid. 

You are eligible to complete the CADAA if you:

 
For additional resources and how to apply for Financial Aid please visit the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) Website.