Grants

Pell Grant

The Federal Pell Grant is money that a student does not need to repay. Pell Grants provided by the U.S. Department of Education are only available for undergraduate students who have not yet earned a bachelor's degree. The student must meet the minimum eligibility requirements. Grant amounts may vary with the cost of attendance at each institution.

The enrollment status of the student, i.e. full time, three-quarter time, half time or less than half time will have a proportional effect on the amount of money a student will receive.

Federal Supplemental Opportunity Grant (SEOG)

This gift aid is made available by the federal government and is awarded to undergraduate students who have been determined to have significant financial need. That is, students with the lowest Expected Family Contribution (EFC). Preference is given to students who filed their FAFSA by September 2nd, have completed less than 30 college units and are enrolled in at least ¾ time (9 units). Awards are limited by availability of funds.

  Cal Grants

Cal Grants are for California residents only. They are awarded by the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) for attendance in schools in California only. Awards are based on financial need and, for the Cal Grant A, academic performance.
Select this link to access detailed information about Cal Grants

1. Cal Grant A

If eligible for a Cal Grant A, this grant is put on reserve while attending a California community college since a Cal Grant eligible resident of this State is not charged tuition. Cal Grant A will pay for tuition charges only at a 4-year school.

2. Cal Grant B

The Cal Grant B is awarded to new college students attending as recent high school graduates (Cal Grant B entitlement is only available in the March 2 cycle) or as competitive B grants to students who have completed 24 units or more college level work.

3. Cal Grant C

Cal Grant C is awarded to students enrolled in vocational/certificate programs. Students who appear to be eligible to receive Cal Grant C will receive a supplemental form to complete.

You must file the FAFSA AND submit a GPA Verification Form to the California Student Aid Commission by March 2 or by September 2 to be considered for a Cal Grant. Students must be enrolled at least half-time (6 units) to receive Cal Grants. Awards for less than full-time (12 units) are prorated based on enrollment level.

Maximum awards are:
Cal Grant B $1,551
Cal Grant C $ 576

  Federal Academic Competitiveness Grant (ACG)

If you're eligible for federal Pell Grant, Are a US citizen and successfully complete a "rigorous" high school program, you may qualify for an Academic Competitiveness Grant of up to $750 for your first year in college and up to $1,300 for the second year in college, in addition to you Pell Grant.

  California Chafee Grant for Foster Youth

Up to $5,00 a year for job training or college may be available if you are or were in foster care, in addition to any other state or federal aid you may receive.  To apply, you must submit the FAFSA and the California Chafee Grant Application, which is available at www.csac.ca.gov (select "Commission Programs") or by calling toll free 888-224-7268.  You don't need a Social Security number to apply.  Contact your school if you need help completing the FAFSA and application form.

Be sure to check "yes" to Question 53 on the FAFSA to establish your independent status.  Also, apply for the Cal Grant if you qualify.

You must stay in school to keep your Chafee Grant.  If you enroll in less than half time or get bad grades, you could lose your grant.