How to Apply
Whether you’re planning to go to college or pursue a career education, there’s money to help you pay for it. Here you’ll learn about the major programs, how to apply and more.
Cal Grant Programs
A Cal Grant is money for college you don’t have to pay back. To qualify, you must apply for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or California Dream Act Application (CADAA) by the deadline and meet the eligibility and financial requirements as well as any minimum GPA requirements. Cal Grants can be used at any University of California, California State University or California Community College, as well as qualifying independent and career colleges or technical schools in California.
There are three kinds of Cal Grants — A, B and C — but you don’t have to figure out which one to apply for. Your eligibility will be based on your FAFSA or CADAA responses, your verified Cal Grant GPA, the type of California colleges you list on your FAFSA and whether you’re a recent high school graduate.
Follow these simple steps to apply for a Cal Grant.
Step 1: Apply
Complete the FAFSA or CA Dream Act Application by March 2nd.
Step 2: File your GPA
File a certified grade point average (GPA) with us no later than March 2nd.
Step 3: Go!
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Students and families can visit https://www.csac.ca.gov/ or call my office to learn more about the Cal Grant program.