Financing your education is an important responsibility, and while financial aid can provide significant help, it’s meant to supplement your own and your family’s resources. Whether you’re applying for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the California Dream Act Application (CADAA), we’re here to guide you through the process.

The good news? You can start applying for financial aid before you receive an admission offer. Applying early ensures you don’t miss out on potential aid opportunities.

The steps below will outline everything you need to know to make the financial aid process smooth and successful.

What is Financial Aid?

Financial aid is money provided to students to help pay for college when enrolled in a degree or eligible certificate program. This support can come from the federal government, state government, schools, or private organizations. Two key applications for students in California are the FAFSA and CADAA.

FAFSA: Free Application for Federal Student Aid

Who Should Apply?

  • U.S. Citizens and Eligible Non-Citizens: If you’re a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or other eligible non-citizen, the FAFSA is for you.
  • Eligibility: You must meet basic federal student aid eligibility requirements, such as having a high school diploma, being enrolled in an eligible degree program, and demonstrating financial need. Refer to our eligibility page for more information.

Why Apply?

  • FAFSA gives you access to federal grants, work-study programs, and loans, as well as state and school-based aid.
  • The earlier you apply, the better your chances of receiving limited need-based aid.

How to Apply for FAFSA

  1. Gather Your Documents: Before starting, you'll need your Social Security number, tax information from the prior-prior year (not the most recent tax year), and financial records. For example, if you're applying for the 2024-2025 school year, you'll use tax information from 2022. If you're a dependent student, you'll also need your parents' information.
  2. Create an FSA ID: Go to the FAFSA website (fafsa.gov) and create a Federal Student Aid (FSA) ID. This will be your digital signature.
  3. Complete the Application: Fill out the FAFSA form online. Make sure you list all the schools you’re considering. The School Code for ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú is 001218.
  4. Submit and Track: After submitting, keep an eye on your email for a Student Aid Report (SAR), which summarizes your application. You may need to correct or update information.

Institutional Financial Aid Process for ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú Students

Once your FAFSA is submitted, there may be a few additional steps required to complete your financial aid application at ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú. Additional documents may be required because you were selected for verification, need to resolve a discrepancy, or because we may need more information about you.

For New Students:

  • After your FAFSA information is received by our Office of Financial Aid, you will be emailed an ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú PIN.
  • This ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú PIN allows you to access and electronically complete any financial aid requirements, as well as download and submit other ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú financial aid forms.

For Current or Returning Students:

  • You’ll use your ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú email address and password to log in and access your financial aid information.

How to View Your Financial Aid Requirements:

  1. Log in:
    • If you're a new student, use your ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú ID number or Social Security Number (SSN) along with your ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú PIN to log in. [Link to login page]
    • If you're a current or returning student, log in using your ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú email address and password. [Link to login page]
  2. Once logged in:
    • Click the "Financial Aid Menu".
    • Select the "Aid Application and Eligibility Menu".
    • Choose "Application Tracking Requirements" to view and track any required forms or documents.

CADAA: California Dream Act Application

Who Should Apply?

  • Undocumented Students and Certain Non-Citizens: CADAA is designed for students who are undocumented or have been granted DACA status. It allows them to be considered for the Cal Grant.

How to Apply for CADAA

  1. Go to the CADAA Website: Visit the California Dream Act site (dream.csac.ca.gov) to start your application.
  2. Submit and Monitor: Once submitted, review any follow-up communication from your schools or the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC).

Important Deadlines

  • FAFSA and CADAA Priority Deadline: The priority filing deadline is typically March 2nd each year. Submitting your application by this date ensures you're considered for the maximum amount of aid available.
  • Limited Funds: Certain need-based funds, including institutional scholarships and loans, are limited and may be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. Applying early increases your chances of receiving these limited resources.
  • Year-Round Applications: ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú accepts financial aid applications year-round; however, funding for late applications is limited. You should complete your financial aid application at least 60 days before the start of enrollment. Applications submitted less than 50 days before the start of enrollment will be processed as time permits, but funding is not guaranteed to be in place before enrollment begins.