If you’re a student or parent in California, you’ve probably heard of the Cal Grant. It’s a financial aid program designed to help students afford college and understanding how it works can make a significant difference in your educational journey. 

Whether you’re a high school senior, a current college student, or a parent helping your child plan for the future, this guide will break down everything you need to know about the Cal Grant.

What is the Cal Grant?

The Cal Grant is a financial aid program provided by the state of California. It offers free money for college, which means you don’t have to pay it back. This aid is designed to help students from low- to moderate-income families cover the cost of tuition, fees, and sometimes even living expenses.

There are different types of Cal Grants, each with its own eligibility criteria and benefits:

1. Cal Grant A: Helps with tuition and fees at four-year universities. If you qualify, it covers a substantial portion of your tuition at UC and CSU schools, and can also be applied to private colleges.

2. Cal Grant B: Provides a living allowance and covers tuition and fees, but the living stipend is available starting in the student’s second year. This grant is geared towards students with the greatest financial need.

3. Cal Grant C: Designed for students enrolled in vocational and technical programs. It helps with tuition and fees as well as some additional expenses related to your field of study.

It’s important to note that students do not need to figure out which Cal Grant to apply for. This is due to your eligibility being based on your FAFSA or CA Dream Act Application responses, your verified Cal Grant GPA, the types of California colleges listed on your application and whether you’ve recently graduated high school or not.

Who Is Eligible to Apply for the Cal Grant?

Eligibility for the Cal Grant depends on several factors, including your income, academic performance, and the type of school you plan to attend. Here are the basic criteria:

1. Income and Assets: Cal Grant eligibility is largely based on your family’s income and assets. For the 2024-2025 academic year, the income thresholds are generally around $43,000 to $108,000 for a family of four, though these numbers can vary. Make sure to check the most current income ceilings on the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) website.

2. Academic Requirements: For Cal Grant A and B, you need to meet certain GPA requirements. 

• Cal Grant A
  • GPA of 3.0 or higher
• Cal Grant B
  • High school GPA of 2.0 or higher
  • College GPA of 2.4 or higher

3. Enrollment Status: You must be enrolled or planning to enroll in a degree or certificate program at an eligible California college or university. The grant is available for both full-time and part-time students.

4. Residency: You must be a U.S. citizen or an eligible non-citizen and a California resident. 

How to Apply for the Cal Grant

Applying for the Cal Grant involves a few key steps. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you through the process:

1. Complete the FAFSA or California Dream Act Application: To be considered for a Cal Grant, you need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the California Dream Act Application. The FAFSA is used by U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens, while the Dream Act Application is for undocumented students who meet specific criteria.

2. Submit Your GPA Verification: High school seniors need to submit their GPA verification to the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC). Your school counselor usually handles this, but it’s good to confirm it’s been sent. College students applying for Cal Grant A or B should ensure their GPA is on file with CSAC. March 4th is the priority deadline for submitting your verified GPA. Students who fail to submit a verified GPA by the priority deadline can submit a Late GPA Appeal by May 16th. For competitive students, Late GPA Appeals must be submitted by March 24th.

3. Meet the Deadlines: For Cal Grant A and B, the priority deadline is May 2nd. However, for the Cal Grant C, you have until September 2 to apply. Be sure to check specific deadlines each year as they can sometimes change.

What If You Missed the Cal Grant Deadline?

If you miss the May 2nd deadline, all hope is not lost. While you may miss out on the initial round of awards, there are often funds available later in the year for community college students with a September 3rd deadline for community college students. Keep in mind that applying as early as possible increases your chances of receiving aid.

How Much Can You Receive with a Cal Grant?

The amount of Cal Grant money you can receive varies based on the type of grant, your financial need, and the type of school you attend. Here’s a general idea:

• Cal Grant A: Up to $12,700 per year for students attending a University of California (UC) or California State University (CSU) school.
• Cal Grant B: Up to $13,100 per year for UC and CSU students, with an additional $1,000 for living expenses starting in the second year.
• Cal Grant C: Up to $5,000 per year for students in vocational programs.

These amounts are subject to change, so check with CSAC for the latest figures.

Why the Cal Grant Matters

The Cal Grant is more than just financial aid; it’s a key that opens the door to higher education for many students in California. It helps reduce the burden of student loans and makes college more accessible for those who need it most. By understanding how the Cal Grant works and taking advantage of it, you’re making a smart investment in your future.

Summary

Navigating college funding can be overwhelming, but the Cal Grant offers a valuable opportunity for California students. Whether you’re just starting your college journey or are already in the thick of it, applying for the Cal Grant can ease some of the financial pressures and help you focus on what truly matters—your education and future career.

For more information, visit the California Student Aid Commission’s website or speak with a financial aid advisor at your school. Don’t miss out on this opportunity—take the steps today to secure your Cal Grant and pave the way for a brighter future.

Does Campus Accept the Cal Grant?

Yes, Cal Grants are available to qualifying Campus students. The Cal Grant program is a financial aid program administered by the California Student Aid Commission in providing aid to California students. Applicants must submit a certified GPA and complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) using school code 008680 to use these funds at Campus. Please submit your application by the May deadline. Cal Grants are the largest source of California state funded student financial aid. If you are interested in attending Campus with help from the Cal Grant, please fill out an application and one of our financial aid advisors will be in contact with you.