Congratulations on your decision to pursue post-secondary education! We know that navigating how to finance college or certificate programs can be overwhelming. We have gathered resources to help you unlock all the opportunities that are available.
Types of Aid
Federal: Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and learn about your federal aid options.
State: Apply for a Cal Grant, or Dream Act grant (CADAA).
Scholarships: Apply for a scholarship through The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County and connect with your high school counselor to learn about additional resources. Your college will also have scholarship opportunities.
Useful Websites
Federal Student Aid
The federal government offers a number of financial aid programs, about $150 billion a year in grants, work-study funds and low-interest loans to more than 14 million students.
California Student Aid Commission
A website from the State of California which provides details about financial aid available to Californians, including Cal Grants, Dream Act Grants, Middle Class Scholarships.
Understand Your Financial Aid Award Letters
Once students have been admitted to college they receive a financial aid award letter that explains all of the grants, scholarships, work study, and loans that a school is offering. These letters can be confusing, but understanding what students are being offered, what money is a gift, what needs to be earned, and what needs to be paid back.
For more information about our scholarship program contact Scholarship Program Manager Emily Jagger at emily@cfsloco.org or call 805-543-2323.
