What is financial aid?
Financial aid is any money being given to a student pursuing a higher education after high school. This includes community colleges, universities, trade/vocational schools, and credential programs.

Who is eligible to receive financial aid?
Any student pursuing a higher education

US citizens
Non-US citizens

Where does financial aid come from?
One or more of the below entities might provide Financial Aid:

The federal government
The state
A college
A private organization
A business

Three types of financial aid:

Free Money
- Grants
- Scholarships
Borrowed Money
- Loans
Earned Money
- Work Study

How do I apply for financial aid?

If you are a US citizen or eligible non-US citizen then you would complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

If you are not eligible to complete the FAFSA and are eligible under AB540 then you can complete the California Dream Act Application (CADAA)

Where can I get help?

FAFSA
https://studentaid.gov/help-center
Federal Student Aid Information Center
1-800-433-3243

CADAA
https://www.csac.ca.gov/post/resources-california-dream-act-application
CA GRANT
888-224-7268
Email: studentsupport@csac.ca.gov

Resources

Cal SOAP San Diego -- College access program that hosts financial aid workshops, events and webinars as well as individual financial aid application assistance.
California Student Aid Commission
California College Promise Grant
San Diego Promise

Scholarships
Ask your School Counselor for school or community scholarships

Search engines:

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San Diego Unified School District

College (FAFSA/CADAA)