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Financial Aid

Child with graduation capSecuring financial aid for college-bound seniors can seem daunting. To help you navigate this process and make your higher education dreams a reality, we've compiled some helpful tips. Depending on your residency status, there are two main financial aid applications you'll want to explore:

  • FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid): This is the standard application for U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens. Completing the FAFSA opens doors to federal grants, loans, and work-study programs, as well as many state and college-specific scholarships.
  • CA Dream Act Application: For undocumented students who meet AB 540 eligibility requirements, the CA Dream Act Application is essential. This application allows eligible students to apply for state financial aid, including Cal Grants.

Key Steps to Applying for Financial Aid for FAFSA applicants:

  1. Create an FSA ID: Both you and your parent/guardian (if applicable) will need an FSA ID (Federal Student Aid ID) to log in and sign the FAFSA. Create your FSA ID well in advance at studentaid.gov. This is the same website to use for the FAFSA application. To learn how to create an FSA ID, click here.
  2. Gather Your Documents: Before starting either application, gather the necessary information:
    • Social Security Numbers (if applicable)
    • Federal Income Tax Returns (including W-2s and 1099s)
    • Bank Statements
    • Student's Driver's License (if applicable)
    • Alien Registration Number or Permanent Resident Card (if applicable)
  3. Complete the Appropriate Application at studentaid.gov
  4. Submit and Review: Carefully review all information before submitting your application. Errors can cause delays but can be fixed even after you submit. After submitting, you'll receive a confirmation and a Student Aid Report (SAR), which you should review for accuracy.

The good news is that the process of filing out the FAFSA was simplified last year making it easier than ever for families to get financial aid and it takes less than an hour to complete.

Key Steps to Applying for Financial Aid for CA Dream Act Applicants:

The CA Dream Act Application allows undocumented students who meet AB 540 eligibility requirements to apply for state financial aid, including Cal Grants and other institutional aid. This application is separate from the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and is specifically designed for undocumented students.

If you are an undocumented student in California who meets AB 540 requirements (generally, attending three or more years of California high school and graduating), you should apply for financial aid using the CA Dream Act Application. Your immigration status will not be reported to the federal government.

Key Steps to Applying for Financial Aid with the CA Dream Act Application:

  1. Gather Your Documents: Before starting the application, gather the necessary information:
    • Any tax information you may have (even if you didn't file; having records of income can be helpful).
    • Records of any financial assistance you've received.
    • Information about the colleges you are interested in attending.
  2. Create an Account: Visit dream.csac.ca.gov/ to create an account. This is where you will complete and submit your application.
  3. Complete the CA Dream Act Application: Carefully fill out all sections of the application. Double-check all information for accuracy. Errors can cause delays.
  4. Submit and Review: Once you've reviewed everything, submit the application. You'll receive a confirmation.

Don't Forget These Important Resources:

  • Contact Your School Counselor: Your high school counselor is your best resource for FAFSA and CA Dream Act application assistance, as well as general financial aid advice. They can answer your questions and guide you through the process.
  • Attend Financial Aid Workshops: COHS hosts multiple financial workshops throughout the year. Check the COHS Bulletin for upcoming sessions.
  • Apply for Cal Grants: California residents should also complete the Cal Grant application through the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) website (csac.ca.gov). The FAFSA and CA Dream Act application will transfer some of your information, but you'll still need to create an account and complete the application. The state priority deadline for Cal Grant applications is usually in early March and the Community College deadline is in early September. So, apply ASAP!
  • Apply for Community Scholarships: Don't overlook local scholarship opportunities!    

We encourage all COUSD seniors to take advantage of these resources and apply for financial aid as early as possible.