Wednesday, March 15

Cal Grant

FREE MONEY FOR COLLEGE!

TO APPLY FOR CAL GRANT students must submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), no later than March 2^nd (second priority deadline for continuing Fullerton College students is September 2^nd). The application period begins as early as January 1^st. Students have the option of submitting a paper or electronic FAFSA. However, students are encouraged to opt for the electronic FAFSA, as it is the "fastest and easiest way to apply for aid."

Students must contact the Financial Aid Office to complete a Financial Aid file, and be enrolled at least half-time (six (6) semester units) at Fullerton College. Failure to complete a Financial Aid file will result in the Cal Grant award being withdrawn by the state.

GPA Verification: Students MUST submit a GPA Verification form to the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) NO LATER than March 2^nd. Students with 24 or more Fullerton College units will have their GPA automatically submitted to CSAC. This group of students will be considered for ALL Cal Grant programs.

Fullerton College will also automatically submit student GPA for students who have accumulated at least 16 Fullerton College units. However, this group of students will only be considered for Cal Grant B. Students with less than 16 Fullerton College units must process the GPA verification through the high school/institution previously attended.

NOTE: As a Cal Grant recipient, students must be a high school graduate, be a resident of California, and establish financial need. If a student is not a high school graduate, the student must obtain a General Education Diploma (GED). GED scores must be submitted directly to the California Student Aid Commission by March 2nd.

Cal grant funds take priority over students loans. However, while loans need to be re-paid, Cal Grant money is FREE MONEY FOR COLLEGE!

DISBURSEMENT OF CAL GRANTS: Once funds are received from the state, they are released to eligible students. Fall payments are tentatively scheduled for October and Spring payments are tentatively scheduled for March.

TIP: Students eligible for Veteran benefits are, in most cases, not eligible for Cal Grant benefits.