The Cal Grant Application is a two step process.  The first step is to complete and submit the FAFSA or Free Application for Financial Student Aid form.  This application will determine if you qualify for post secondary financial aid.  Once the FAFSA form is completed and submitted, make sure to fill out the verified Cal Grant GPA form, which can be found here.

The Cal Grant 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.

In order to be qualified for the Cal Grant, the following qualifications must be met:

·        Student has submitted the FAFSA and your verified Cal Grant GPA by the deadline.

·        Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen (your parents don’t need to be citizens or eligible non citizens)

·        Be a California resident when you graduated from high school.

·        Have a Social Security number

·        Attend a qualifying California college

·        Not have a bachelor’s or professional degree (except for Cal Grant A and B extended awards for a teaching credential program)

·        Have financial need based on your college costs

·        Have family income and assets below the established ceilings

·        Meet any minimum GPA requirements

·        Be in a program leading to an undergraduate degree or certificate

·        Be enrolled at least half time

·        Have registered with U.S. Selective Service (most males)

·        Not owe a refund on a state or federal grant, or be in default on a student loan

You can apply for a Cal Grant if you meet one of the following criteria:

·        Apply for a Cal Grant within one year after you graduate. So even if you decide to backpack through Europe or go straight to work before going to college, you don't have to miss out on a Cal Grant.