A college education opens many opportunities but comes with a hefty price tag. Luckily, many financial aid programs and scholarships are available to help students and families pay for college!
Step 1: Apply for All Types of Financial Aid
First, fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, also known as FAFSA. This is the application that can help provide fee waivers, grants, work study opportunities, loans and in some cases, scholarships for college. FAFSA is required to qualify and be considered for nearly all federal, state, campus, and private financial aid.
FAFSA has strict timelines, please visit www.fafsa.ed.gov to learn more.
Students who do not have a permanent Social Security number should instead complete the California Dream Act Application (CADAA), not the FAFSA. CADAA application information is confidential – it is NEVER shared with the federal government, homeland security, or immigration and customs enforcement. To learn more, please visit dream.csac.ca.gov.
Step 2: Get FREE Help!
Applying for financial aid can seem overwhelming and difficult to understand, but there are many free and helpful resources available to help you navigate through the process!
The California Cash for College (CCFC) program offers FREE workshops to assist low income and first generation college-bound high school seniors with filling out the applications listed above and applying for all types of financial aid. For dates, locations, and a list of what to bring, please visit: www.cash4college.org