Learn California aid programs

Overview

California offers excellent financial aid programs for residents attending in-state colleges. Here's what you need to know!

Cal Grant Programs

Cal Grant A

• For: Students with 3.0+ GPA
• Covers: Tuition at UC, CSU, or private colleges
• Awards: Up to $13,752 (UC), $5,742 (CSU), $9,358 (private)
• Requirements: Meet income/asset limits

Cal Grant B

• For: Low-income students with 2.0+ GPA
• Covers: Living allowance (Year 1), then tuition + allowance
• Awards: $1,656 living allowance, plus tuition in later years

Cal Grant C

• For: Career/technical education students
• Covers: Training costs at community colleges

UC-Specific Programs

Blue and Gold Opportunity Plan

• For: California residents with family income under $80,000
• Covers: All UC systemwide tuition and fees
• How to apply: Automatic with FAFSA submission

Middle Class Scholarship

• For: Families with income up to $234,000
• Covers: Portion of tuition based on income
• How to apply: Automatic with FAFSA submission

How to Apply

Step 1: Submit FAFSA or California Dream Act Application

• FAFSA opens in December (since the FAFSA Simplification Act of 2024; not October 1 as in prior years)
• California Dream Act Application (for undocumented, DACA, AB 540 students) opens around the same time at dream.csac.ca.gov
• California priority deadline: March 2
• Apply at studentaid.gov

Step 2: GPA Verification

• Your school submits your GPA to the state
• Confirm with your counselor

Undocumented Students

The California Dream Act provides access to state aid:

• Apply at dream.csac.ca.gov
• Same programs available as FAFSA filers

Resource

California Student Aid Commission