Apply for Financial Aid
Before You Apply
Gather the following information before starting your application:
Student Information
Social Security Number (FAFSA applicants) or eligible identificationDriver's license (if applicable)Alien Registration Number (if applicable)
Parent Information
Parent Social Security NumbersFederal tax returnsW-2 FormsRecords of untaxed income
Financial Information
Checking and savings account balancesInvestment information (if applicable)Business or farm information (if applicable)
FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)
The FAFSA is the primary application used by the federal government and most colleges to determine your eligibility for financial aid. Completing the FAFSA may qualify you for federal, state, and college-based financial aid.
Who should complete the FAFSA?
- U.S. Citizens
- Eligible Non-Citizens
The FAFSA may qualify you for:
- Pell Grant
- College grants and scholarships
- Federal Work-Study
- Federal Direct Loans
- Cal Grants
- Middle Class Scholarship
California Dream Act Application (CADAA)
The California Dream Act Application allows eligible AB 540 students to apply for California state financial aid and institutional aid.
Who should complete the CADAA?
Students who meet AB 540 eligibility requirements and are not eligible to complete the FAFSA.
The CADAA may qualify you for:
- Cal Grants
- Institutional grants and scholarships
- Middle Class Scholarship
- California College Promise Grant
CSS Profile
The CSS Profile is an online financial aid application used by many private colleges and universities to award institutional grants and scholarships. While the FAFSA determines eligibility for federal aid, the CSS Profile helps colleges award their own financial aid.
Important Reminders
- Not all colleges require the CSS Profile.
- Check each college's financial aid website for deadlines and requirements.
- Some schools require both the FAFSA (or CADAA) and the CSS Profile.
- Application fees may apply, but fee waivers are available for eligible students.
Create Your FSA ID
If you are completing the FAFSA, both the student and one parent/contributor must create an FSA ID before starting the application.
Your FSA ID allows you to:
- Access and sign the FAFSA electronically
- Make corrections to your application
- Review your financial aid information each year
After You Submit
Once your FAFSA or CADAA has been submitted:
- Review your confirmation and Student Aid Index (SAI).
- Watch your email for requests from colleges.
- Complete any verification documents if requested.
- Review each college's financial aid offer after you are admitted