How To Apply for Aid - Prospective Graduates

Which application do I file?

FAFSA vs CA Dream Act Application
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) California Dream Act Application (CADAA)
  • You (the student) have a valid Social Security Number
  • You (the student) are a U.S. Citizen; Permanent Resident; or eligible non-citizen
  • You (the student) do not meet criteria to file a FAFSA
  • You (the student) meet the conditions of California AB540 status
Submit a FAFSA Submit a California Dream Act application (CADAA)
Eligible to receive funding from federal, state, and institutional aid programs Eligible to receive funding from CA State and CA institutional aid programs

For help on submitting a FAFSA, watch these short FATv videos

 

Getting Started 2021-22

 

For help on submitting a California Dream application, watch these short FATv videos

 

How do I apply for financial aid under CA Dream act

 

Submit your financial aid application  between October 1 and March 2 for the following academic year. Be sure to file before the priority filing deadline of March 2 in order to be considered for the maximum types of aid. Applications submitted after March 2 will not be eligible for CA State or CSULB Institutional Grants.

Your financial aid application is used to determine your eligibility for all types of aid, and some scholarship providers may use your application information to determine whether you qualify for their awards. You must reapply for financial aid, including loans; grants; and federal work-study.