The California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office’s ICanGoToCollege.com campaign and the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) are joining forces to urge current and prospective community college students to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the California Dream Act Application (CADAA) before the Sept. 2 Cal Grant deadline.
Missing this deadline could mean missing out on state-based grants, scholarships and other non-repayable funds that make college accessible and affordable.
“Financial aid is a game-changer for so many of our students, opening doors to higher education that might otherwise remain closed,” said California Community Colleges Chancellor Sonya Christian. “Financial stability is often the foundation for student success, which is why it’s so important that community college students file for financial aid before the upcoming deadline. We want students to know support is available and we’re committed to breaking down barriers so that all have a fair shot at achieving their goals.”
CSAC offers free Cash for College workshops, providing invaluable assistance with completing financial aid applications. These workshops are available both in-person and online, offering students and families the latest information and expert guidance on the FAFSA and CADAA, as well as step-by-step instructions for students and parents on how to fill out their financial aid applications. During the webinar, participants can ask questions and get tailored support with their applications. High school seniors and their parents or guardians as well as emancipated minors, current and former foster youth, and new and returning community college students of any age are encouraged to attend.
Students can visit the multi-lingual ICanGoToCollege.com website to enroll at a California community college and get directly connected to their local college financial aid office for support. The website offers links to the FAFSA and CADAA and information about the programs, resources, and support available for community college students. The website is available in English, Spanish, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, and Tagalog.
Visit the California Student Aid Commission’s website at https://www.csac.ca.gov/apply to learn how to apply for financial aid. Students can access specific resources for financial aid for undocumented students, financial aid for mixed-status families, and get information on in-person Cash for College Workshops or the Statewide Virtual Cash for College Workshops. Some virtual workshops will include interpreters for Spanish-speaking and Mandarin-speaking families.
“The California Student Aid Commission knows that students and future learners can achieve their educational dreams in California,” said California Student Aid Commission Executive Director Daisy Gonzales. “The September 2 deadline is a lifeline to make college affordable for students seeking to enroll in a California community college for the 2025-26 academic year. We urge students and families to complete their financial aid application and attend our free Cash for College Workshops if you need help. So, apply today, help others apply and share your success story with us to inspire California. Together we can reach every student, every family and region of our state.”
