Financial Aid Checklist
Most California community college students who plan to transfer should complete at least one of these major applications. Which one you use will depend on your citizenship, residency, and AB 540 status.
FAFSA
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is used to qualify for federal grants, loans, work-study, and some state and campus aid.
- Used by UCs, CSUs, and many private schools.
- Required for most federal grants and loans.
- File every year you attend college.
Go to FAFSA
California Dream Act (CADAA)
For eligible undocumented students and certain other noncitizen residents who qualify for in-state tuition (AB 540 or similar).
- Used to apply for California state financial aid instead of FAFSA.
- Can qualify you for Cal Grants, CCPG, and other programs.
California Dream Act Application
California College Promise Grant (CCPG)
Formerly known as the BOG Fee Waiver, this waives enrollment fees at California community colleges for eligible students.
- Available to many low- and middle-income California residents.
- Often applied for through your CC or via FAFSA/CADAA data.
Learn about CCPG
Cal Grants & Middle Class Scholarship
State programs that help pay tuition at UCs, CSUs, and some private schools.
- Cal Grants: Need-based grants that can cover a significant portion of UC/CSU tuition for eligible students.
- Middle Class Scholarship: Helps California middle-income students at UC and CSU pay tuition.
Middle Class Scholarship
Scholarships & Free Money
Scholarships can stack on top of grants and fee waivers. Many are local to your college, city, or major — which means fewer applicants and better odds.
- Start with your college foundation or financial aid office for local scholarships.
- Look for scholarships specifically for transfer students, California residents, or your major.
- Reuse and adapt your UC Personal Insight Questions (PIQs) or personal statements for scholarship essays.
Writing tip: Focus on specific stories (challenges, responsibilities, projects) that show your growth and future goals instead of general statements like “I work hard.”
Which Application Do I File?
This is a simple overview. Always confirm with your financial aid office.
- U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen: File FAFSA.
- Undocumented / DACA / some noncitizen students in California who qualify for AB 540: File the California Dream Act Application (CADAA) instead of FAFSA.
- All California CC students: Ask about the California College Promise Grant (CCPG) to see if your enrollment fees can be waived.
- Transferring to UC or CSU: FAFSA or CADAA is usually required for Cal Grants and campus aid, even if you also receive scholarships.
Common Financial Aid Mistakes
- Missing the priority deadline. Filing late can mean less grant money, even if you still qualify.
- Not updating your college choice. When you transfer, make sure your FAFSA/CADAA is sent to your new campus.
- Assuming you won’t qualify. Many students are surprised to find out they are eligible for grants or fee waivers.
- Ignoring email from “boring” offices. Financial aid offices send important requests for documents and corrections by email.
Financial Aid Calendar (Typical Timing)
Exact dates change year to year and may be updated by state or federal agencies. Always double-check on the official FAFSA, CADAA, and campus financial aid websites.
- October–December: Many years, the FAFSA and CADAA open for the next academic year. Aim to file as early as possible.
- Priority deadline (often March/April): Submit FAFSA or CADAA by your state’s priority deadline for maximum grant eligibility.
- Spring–Summer before transfer: Complete any requested verification forms and update your school choices to your UC/CSU campus.
- Before classes start: Make sure your financial aid is awarded and accepted and that you understand how and when refunds are paid out.
If you are ever unsure, contact your current college’s financial aid office — they can walk you through each step.