Online Forty Niner: v8n19: Maxson approves of financial legislation

Chancellor Charles Reed worked diligently with state legislators and Gov. Davis to make this a reality for all deserving California college students. For the first time in California's history, the state will be able to support its commitment to financially needy students who have demonstrated academic merit.

The goal of this expanded program is to help low- and middle-income students and their families who do not believe that college is in their reach financially.
This new law, which expands the state's Cal Grants program from $503 million to $1.3 billion, becomes effective for the 2001-2002 academic year and, for the first time, guarantees funding for every qualified student who applies.

Cal State Long Beach students who are interested in applying for a Cal Grant A or Cal Grant B under the new program must do so by March 2, 2001.

The effect of the new Cal Grant Entitlement Program is enormous and will benefit thousands of students attending CSULB and its sister campuses. As an added bonus, students do not have to repay the state whatever grant amount is awarded.

No eligible student will be denied a grant. Depending on the type of grant, an eligible Long Beach State student may receive up to $1,550 a year to cover college fees.

Students must qualify for these grants based on financial need, which is determined by family income. California students who are older than 23, or for other reasons do not meet the entitlement requirements may still compete for Cal Grants if they are academically and financially eligible, although they will not be entitled to the awards.

You owe it to yourself to look into this program. You can get more information on the program from our Office of Financial Aid in Enrollment Services, Brotman Hall, Room 123.
Go BEACH!
Sincerely,
Robert C. Maxson, President