Financial Aid FAFSA

1. Go to CA Colleges.edu and Launch your FAFSA application. Watch this How to Video [HERE]
2. Create an FSA ID: Visit StudentAid.gov .  Create an account (located on top right corner of your screen) to receive your unique FSA ID.
3. Gather Required Documents: Collect necessary documents such as Social Security numbers, driver's license, Tax Return and bank statements (if applicable).
4. Start the FAFSA: Go to Student Aid.gov and Select the appropriate academic year and follow the prompts.
5. Enter Student Information: Fill in personal information, including name, date of birth, and address.
6. School Selection: List the schools you are considering attending. You can add up to 10 schools.
7. Dependency Status: Answer questions to determine if you are a dependent or independent student.
8. Parent ("Contributor") Information: If you are a dependent student, provide your parents' information, Name, DOB, Email, SSN.
9. Sign and Submit: Review your application for accuracy, sign it using your FSA ID, and submit it. You will receive a confirmation email once it's submitted. A Contributor will be determined and emailed an invite to fill out their portion of the FAFSA.

1. Create an FSA ID: Parent/Contributor should receive an invitation email to create an FSA ID at StudentAid.gov.
2. Provide Consent and Approval: Agree to share your tax information with the IRS for the FAFSA.
3. Enter Parent Information: Fill in your personal and financial information, including income and tax details.
4. Sign the FAFSA: Use your FSA ID to sign the FAFSA electronically. Your information is linked to your student's FAFSA Application.

• Complete the FAFSA Early: Submit the FAFSA as soon as possible after October 1st to maximize your chances of receiving aid. The deadline for California state aid March 2nd.
• Check for Errors: Double-check all information for accuracy to avoid delays in processing.
• Follow Up: After submitting the FAFSA, monitor your email and StudentAid.gov account for any updates or additional information requests.

• Review Your FAFSA Submission Summary: You will receive a FAFSA Submission Summary, formerly known as the Student Aid Report (SAR), summarizing your FAFSA information. Review it for accuracy.
• Apply for Additional Aid: Look into other financial aid opportunities, such as local, regional, and national scholarships.
• Stay Informed: Keep track of deadlines and requirements for each school you are applying to, as financial aid deadlines often occur before admission decisions. Each school may offer their own financial aid as well!

Please Visit CADAA website for the most up to date information and to apply.

A student can apply for financial aid using the California Dream Act Application (CADAA) if they meet the following criteria:

✅ Who Can Apply for CADAA

1. Immigration Status

   • Undocumented
   • DACA recipient (valid or expired)
   • U Visa holder
   • Temporary Protected Status (TPS) holder
   • Asylum seeker with a pending case

2. California Residency Requirements

   • Must meet the nonresident tuition exemption under AB 540, AB 2000, or SB 68. This typically means:
     • Attending a California high school for 3 or more years
     • Graduating from a California high school or earning a GED in California
     • Submitting an AB 540 affidavit to the college or university

3. Not Eligible for FAFSA

   • CADAA is for students who cannot file the FAFSA due to their immigration status .

Visit CADAA website for the most up to date information and to apply.