Cal Grant represents California’s most significant investment in making higher education accessible to students from low- and middle-income families. Unlike student loans, this state-funded financial aid program provides money that never needs to be repaid, helping eligible students cover tuition, fees, and living expenses at California colleges, universities, and vocational schools.
The program serves over 300,000 California students annually, distributing approximately $2 billion in awards each year. Whether you’re planning to attend a four-year university, community college, or vocational program, understanding how this grant works is essential for maximizing your financial aid package.
Three main award types—Cal Grant A, B, and C—each serve different student populations and educational pathways. To qualify, students must submit either the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or California Dream Act Application (CADAA), along with verified grade point average information.
The primary application deadline falls on Monday, March 2, 2026, though community college students have until Wednesday, September 2, 2026.
This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know: eligibility requirements, application procedures, award amounts, and how to maintain your funding throughout your college career.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Three Types of Cal Grants: A, B, and C
Cal Grant A: For Four-Year Degree Seekers
Cal Grant A targets students pursuing bachelor’s degrees at California State University campuses, University of California schools, or eligible private nonprofit institutions. This award exclusively covers tuition and systemwide fees, making it particularly valuable for students attending universities with higher costs.
Who qualifies: Students must demonstrate financial need, maintain at least a 3.0 grade point average, and meet income requirements set by the California Student Aid Commission. Recent high school graduates and students within one year of graduation typically qualify, though some pathways exist for older students.
Award coverage: At UC and CSU campuses, the grant covers full systemwide fees (approximately $12,570 at UC schools and $5,742 at CSU institutions for 2025-2026). Private college recipients receive up to $9,708 annually.
Duration: Funding continues for up to four academic years, provided students maintain eligibility and academic progress.
Cal Grant B: Supporting Students with Greatest Financial Need
Cal Grant B serves students from families with the most significant financial challenges. While the income threshold is lower than for Cal Grant A, the grade point average requirement is more accessible at 2.0 or higher.
Unique structure: During the first year, recipients receive only a living allowance (currently $1,656). Starting in year two, the award expands to include both the tuition coverage provided under Cal Grant A plus the continued living stipend.
Ideal for: First-generation college students, those supporting families, and students who may need additional time to adjust academically while managing financial pressures.
Access awards: Students with dependent children under 18 may qualify for an additional $6,000 annually through the Students with Dependent Children access award, significantly increasing total support.
Cal Grant C: Vocational and Technical Training Support
Cal Grant C assists students enrolled in occupational or technical programs lasting at least four months. This includes programs at community colleges, private vocational schools, and other qualifying institutions.
Coverage: Awards up to $2,462 for tuition and fees, plus an additional $547 for books, tools, and equipment—critical for technical programs requiring specialized materials.
Program length: Available for up to two years of vocational education, though it cannot be used simultaneously with Cal Grant A or B.
Career pathways: Ideal for students pursuing careers in healthcare, automotive technology, cosmetology, computer networking, and other skilled trades.
Cal Grant A vs B: Making the Right Choice
| Feature | Cal Grant A | Cal Grant B |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum GPA | 3.0 | 2.0 |
| Income threshold | Higher ceiling | Lower ceiling (greatest need) |
| First-year award | Full tuition coverage | Living stipend only ($1,656) |
| Years 2-4 | Tuition coverage | Tuition + living stipend |
| Best for | Students meeting higher GPA standards | Students with greatest financial need |
| Maximum duration | 4 years | 4 years |
Students cannot choose between awards—the California Student Aid Commission assigns the grant type based on which provides maximum benefit given your financial situation and academic qualifications.
Cal Grant Eligibility Requirements: Do You Qualify?
Basic Eligibility Criteria for All Award Types
Meeting these fundamental requirements is essential before the California Student Aid Commission evaluates your specific grant eligibility:
Citizenship and residency: You must be a U.S. citizen, eligible non-citizen, or meet AB 540 criteria (allowing certain undocumented students who attended California high schools to qualify for state aid). California residency is mandatory—you must have lived in the state for at least one year before the school term begins.
School attendance: Enrollment at a California Student Aid Commission-approved institution is required. This includes UC and CSU campuses, California community colleges, accredited private colleges, and eligible vocational schools throughout the state.
Financial need demonstration: Submit the FAFSA or CADAA by the deadline. The application calculates your Expected Family Contribution and determines whether you fall below income ceilings.
No prior bachelor’s degree: Students who already hold bachelor’s degrees are ineligible, though exceptions exist for teaching credential programs.
Satisfactory academic progress: You must maintain standards set by both your school and the state commission, including minimum grade point averages and unit completion rates.
Income Limits and Asset Ceilings for 2025-2026
Income thresholds adjust annually based on household size. For the 2025-2026 academic year, these limits apply:
Cal Grant A income ceilings:
- Family of 2: $59,100
- Family of 3: $65,500
- Family of 4: $72,100
- Family of 5: $78,800
- Family of 6 or more: $85,200
Cal Grant B income ceilings (lower thresholds for highest-need students):
- Family of 2: $28,000
- Family of 3: $32,500
- Family of 4: $37,100
- Family of 5: $41,800
- Family of 6 or more: $46,300
Asset limits: Dependent students face an asset ceiling of $78,100; independent students with dependents have a limit of $59,700.
These figures represent gross annual income before taxes. The California Student Aid Commission uses the income information provided on your FAFSA or CADAA to determine eligibility.
Grade Point Average Requirements
- Cal Grant A: Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Cal Grant B: Minimum 2.0 GPA required
- Cal Grant C: Minimum 2.0 GPA required
Your high school or college must submit official verification through the WebGrants for Schools portal. This verification must reach the commission by Monday, March 2, 2026 (or Wednesday, September 2, 2026 for community college students using the extended deadline).
GPA calculation: The commission uses specific coursework from grades 10 and 11 for high school students. College students must submit transcripts showing their cumulative college GPA.
Special Eligibility Pathways
Competitive awards: Students who miss the March 2 deadline or don’t meet standard eligibility may compete for limited awards available through a separate competitive process. These awards consider additional factors beyond standard criteria.
Foster youth and former foster youth: California provides special consideration and extended eligibility for students who spent time in foster care, including those who aged out of the system.
Graduate students: While most awards target undergraduates, the Cal Grant for Teachers program supports credential candidates pursuing teaching careers in California public schools.
How to Apply for Cal Grant: Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Complete Your Financial Aid Application (Deadline: March 2, 2026)
Choose the appropriate application based on your citizenship status:
FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid):
- For U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens
- Complete online at studentaid.gov
- Provides access to federal aid (Pell Grants, federal loans) plus state aid
- Requires Social Security number
- Uses IRS tax information for income verification
California Dream Act Application (CADAA):
- For AB 540 eligible students (including undocumented students)
- Complete at dream.csac.ca.gov
- Provides access only to state and institutional aid
- Does not require Social Security number
- Similar questions to FAFSA but designed for students ineligible for federal aid
Important timing: The 2025-2026 FAFSA opens in October 2025. Complete it as soon as possible after it becomes available, even if you’re still in high school. Earlier submission improves your chances for institutional aid with limited funding.
What you’ll need:
- Social Security number (for FAFSA) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (for CADAA)
- Driver’s license number (if you have one)
- Federal tax returns, W-2s, and records of untaxed income
- Bank statements and investment records
- Records of child support received or paid
- Your school code (find this on the FAFSA/CADAA website)
Step 2: Submit Your GPA Verification (Deadline: March 2, 2026)
This critical step often trips up otherwise eligible students. Your grade point average must be officially verified and submitted by your school—you cannot submit it yourself.
For high school seniors and recent graduates:
- Complete the paper GPA Verification Form or ask your school counselor to submit electronically through WebGrants for Schools
- Ensure your school has your correct Social Security number or CADAA identification number
- Follow up with your counselor to confirm submission before the deadline
- Many high schools submit automatically for all students, but never assume this—verify with your counseling office
For current college students:
- Request a transcript submission through your college’s financial aid or registrar’s office
- Some colleges automatically submit for all continuing students; others require student request
- Community college students have until Wednesday, September 2, 2026 (extended deadline)
GPA calculation details: High schools use grades from specific college-preparatory courses completed in grades 10 and 11. College students need their cumulative GPA from all college coursework.
Step 3: List California Schools on Your Application
Include at least one California college or university on your FAFSA or CADAA. You can list up to 10 schools—add every California institution you’re considering to maximize your aid package opportunities.
The California Student Aid Commission automatically receives your application information when you list California schools, so there’s no separate state application to complete.
Step 4: Check Your WebGrants for Students Account
Within 4-6 weeks after submitting your FAFSA or CADAA, create your WebGrants for Students account at mygrantinfo.csac.ca.gov.
Account creation:
- Visit the WebGrants portal
- Select “Create Account”
- Enter your Social Security number or CADAA ID, date of birth, and create a password
- Verify your email address
What you’ll find:
- Eligibility determination and award amount
- Missing information or documentation requests
- GPA verification status
- Certification status from your school
- Payment history and disbursement information
- Renewal requirements for the following year
Check your account regularly throughout the application and award year. The commission communicates important updates through this portal, including requests for additional documentation that could delay or prevent your award.
Step 5: Accept Your Award and Confirm Enrollment
Once your school receives notification of your award:
- Confirm enrollment: Ensure you’re registered for at least six units (part-time minimum) or preferably 12 or more units (full-time) by your school’s census date
- Accept financial aid: Some schools require students to accept awards through their student portal
- Complete verification: If selected for federal verification, submit required documents promptly to avoid delays
- Attend all classes: Non-attendance can result in award cancellation and repayment obligations
Cal Grant Dates and Deadlines for 2026
Missing deadlines costs students thousands in financial aid annually. Mark these critical dates for the 2026 academic year:
Primary Application Deadline: March 2, 2026
Monday, March 2, 2026 represents the firm deadline for:
- Submitting FAFSA or California Dream Act Application
- Schools submitting GPA verification forms
- Eligibility for Cal Grant A, B, and C initial awards
This date applies to high school seniors, recent graduates, and current college students seeking their first award. Submit both your financial aid application and ensure your school submits GPA verification by this date.
Why March 2 matters: California appropriates a specific amount for Cal Grants each year. While funding typically covers all eligible students meeting the March 2 deadline, late applicants compete for limited remaining funds through the competitive process with no guarantee of award.
Extended Deadline for Community College Students: September 2, 2026
Wednesday, September 2, 2026 provides additional time specifically for students attending or planning to attend California community colleges. Both the FAFSA/CADAA and GPA verification must be submitted by this date for community college students.
This extension recognizes that many community college students make enrollment decisions later in the summer or are returning students who need extra time to complete paperwork.
Important note: While this extended deadline applies to community college attendance, students planning to transfer to four-year universities should meet the March 2 deadline when possible to maximize future eligibility.
Disbursement Timeline: November 2026
November 2026: Most California colleges and universities begin disbursing funds around this timeframe, though exact dates vary by institution.
Disbursement process:
- Schools certify enrollment (typically 2-3 weeks into the term)
- California Student Aid Commission approves payment
- Schools receive funds and apply them to student accounts
- Schools disburse any remaining funds to students (usually within 14 days of receiving payment)
Factors affecting timing:
- Your enrollment status verification
- Completion of all required verification documents
- School’s billing and disbursement schedule
- Whether you enrolled by census date
- Outstanding holds on your student account
Renewal Deadline: March 2, 2026
Current recipients must submit a new FAFSA or CADAA by Monday, March 2, 2026 to renew funding for the following academic year. Renewal is not automatic—failure to reapply by this deadline results in loss of eligibility.
Renewal requirements beyond application submission:
- Maintain satisfactory academic progress
- Meet minimum GPA requirements (varies by grant type)
- Continue demonstrating financial need
- Remain enrolled at eligible institution
- Not exceed maximum years of eligibility
Additional Important Dates
October 2025: FAFSA becomes available for the 2026-2027 academic year. Complete it as soon as possible after this date.
January-February 2026: Schools begin submitting GPA verifications. Confirm with your school that verification has been submitted.
April-May 2026: Award notifications begin appearing in WebGrants for Students accounts. Check your account if you haven’t received notification by late May.
Throughout 2026: Monitor your WebGrants account for updates, additional documentation requests, or changes to your award status.
Cal Grant Award Amounts: How Much Money Can You Receive?
Cal Grant A Award Amounts for 2025-2026
Award amounts for Cal Grant A vary based on the type of institution you attend:
University of California campuses: $12,570 annually
- Covers full systemwide fees
- Does not cover campus-specific fees or other costs
- Adjusted if tuition increases
California State University campuses: $5,742 annually
- Covers full systemwide fees
- Campus fees and other costs not included
- Amount adjusts with tuition changes
Private or independent colleges: $9,708 annually
- Fixed amount regardless of actual tuition cost
- Many private schools cost significantly more, leaving gaps
- Can combine with institutional aid to close gaps
Private for-profit institutions: $4,000 annually
- Lower amount than nonprofit private schools
- Reflects different cost structures and state priorities
Cal Grant B Award Amounts
First year (freshman or first year of eligibility):
- Living allowance only: $1,656
- No tuition coverage in year one
- Prorated based on enrollment status
Years 2-4:
- Full tuition coverage (same amounts as Cal Grant A based on school type)
- Plus living allowance: $1,656
- Total value exceeds Cal Grant A by the stipend amount
Example for UC student:
- Year 1: $1,656
- Years 2-4: $12,570 + $1,656 = $14,226 annually
- Four-year total: $44,334
Students with Dependent Children access award:
- Additional $6,000 annually
- Available to Cal Grant A or B recipients
- Child must be under 18 and student must provide more than half their financial support
- Can receive both access award and regular award simultaneously
Cal Grant C Award Amounts
Tuition and fees: Up to $2,462 per academic year
Books, tools, and equipment: Up to $547 per academic year
Total maximum: $3,009 annually for up to two years
Program requirements: Enrollment in occupational or technical training program lasting at least four months at an eligible institution.
How Enrollment Status Affects Award Amounts
Your enrollment level directly impacts the amount you receive:
| Units Enrolled | Award Percentage |
|---|---|
| 12+ units (full-time) | 100% of award |
| 9-11 units (three-quarter time) | 75% of award |
| 6-8 units (half-time) | 50% of award |
| Less than 6 units | Not eligible |
Example calculation: A Cal Grant A recipient at CSU enrolled in 10 units would receive: $5,742 × 0.75 = $4,306.50 for that term
Maintaining full-time status matters: To maximize benefits and graduate within the four-year eligibility window, enroll in at least 12 units per term. Completing 15 units per semester/quarter helps ensure timely graduation.
Understanding Disbursement and Payment
Direct payment to institution: The California Student Aid Commission sends funds directly to your school, not to you personally.
Application to student account:
- School receives payment from the state
- Funds apply to tuition, fees, and other institutional charges
- If a credit balance remains, school issues refund to student
- Refunds typically process within 14 days
Timing considerations:
- Certification happens after census date (usually 2-3 weeks into term)
- Payment arrives at school 2-4 weeks after certification
- Student receives any refund approximately 2 weeks after school receives payment
- Total timeline: 6-9 weeks from term start to receiving refund
What happens if you drop classes: If your enrollment status drops below what was certified (for example, from 12 units to 8 units), your award adjusts accordingly. Schools may bill you for the difference, creating unexpected debt. Always check with financial aid before dropping courses.
Can You Receive Both Pell Grant and Cal Grant?
Yes, absolutely. You can receive both federal Pell Grants and California state grants simultaneously, and this combination often forms the foundation of a complete financial aid package for low-income students.
How Pell Grant and Cal Grant Work Together
These programs complement each other rather than compete:
Pell Grant (federal aid):
- Maximum award for 2025-2026: $7,395
- Based on Expected Family Contribution calculated from FAFSA
- Can apply to any cost of attendance (tuition, housing, books, personal expenses)
- Available at schools nationwide, not just California
Cal Grant (state aid):
- Amounts vary by type and institution (see award amounts section)
- Specifically covers tuition and fees (Cal Grant A/C) or adds living stipend (Cal Grant B)
- Only available at California schools
- Does not reduce Pell eligibility
Example Financial Aid Package
Consider a student from a family of four with $35,000 annual income attending UC Berkeley:
Estimated costs for 2025-2026:
- Tuition and fees: $14,226
- Room and board: $18,952
- Books and supplies: $1,000
- Personal expenses: $2,742
- Transportation: $652
- Total cost of attendance: $37,572
Potential aid package:
- Federal Pell Grant: $7,395
- Cal Grant B (first year): $1,656
- UC Berkeley Grant: $18,500
- Work-study eligibility: $3,000
- Total grant aid: $30,551
- Net cost: $7,021 (likely covered through summer earnings, family contribution, or modest loans)
In subsequent years, Cal Grant B increases to $14,226, reducing net cost further.
Maximizing Your Combined Aid
Submit both applications: Complete the FAFSA even if you’re primarily interested in state aid. FAFSA submission is required for Pell Grants and most institutional aid.
List California schools: Including California institutions on your FAFSA automatically triggers state aid consideration without requiring separate applications.
Understand how aid stacks:
- Grants and scholarships apply first
- Work-study provides earned income
- Student loans fill any remaining gaps
Total aid cannot exceed cost of attendance: If your combined grants exceed your school’s cost of attendance, aid packages adjust. Schools typically reduce loans first, then work-study, before touching grants.
Verification requirements: If selected for federal verification, complete all requested documents promptly. Delays in verification can hold up both federal and state aid disbursement.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cal Grant
How do I check if I have been awarded a Cal Grant?
Log into your WebGrants for Students account at mygrantinfo.csac.ca.gov using your Social Security number or CADAA ID and password. Your account displays your eligibility status, award type, and amount. You should also receive notification from the California Student Aid Commission via mail or email.
Award notifications typically appear 4-6 weeks after the commission receives both your FAFSA/CADAA and GPA verification. If you haven’t seen an update by late May, contact the commission at 888-224-7268.
Why hasn’t my Cal Grant been awarded yet?
Several factors can delay your award:
Missing GPA verification: This is the most common issue. Verify with your school that GPA verification was submitted to the commission. Check your WebGrants account for verification status.
Incomplete FAFSA or CADAA: Review your application for any questions marked “incomplete” or “rejected.” You may need to correct information or provide additional documentation.
Selected for verification: The federal government randomly selects some FAFSA applicants for verification. Your school will request documentation (tax transcripts, proof of income, etc.). Submit these documents immediately to avoid delays.
Citizenship documentation pending: Non-citizens must verify eligible status. Check with your financial aid office about required documentation.
School hasn’t certified enrollment: Schools must confirm you’re enrolled before payment processes. This typically happens after census date, 2-3 weeks into the term.
What is the GPA requirement for Cal Grant renewal?
Cal Grant A recipients: Must maintain a 2.0 cumulative GPA or better at the end of each academic year.
Cal Grant B recipients: Must maintain a 2.0 cumulative GPA or better at the end of each academic year.
Additional requirements: You must also complete a minimum number of units each year (typically 24 semester units or 36 quarter units for full-time students) and maintain satisfactory academic progress as defined by your school.
Grade point average dips below 2.0: If your GPA falls below the minimum, you lose eligibility immediately. Some students regain eligibility after raising their GPA back above 2.0, but this requires communication with the commission and may not be guaranteed.
Can I use Cal Grant at community college then transfer?
Yes, this is a common and effective pathway. Community college students can receive awards and then transfer benefits to a four-year institution.
Community college award: Typically receive Cal Grant B with the living stipend only (since California community colleges don’t charge tuition for California residents beyond enrollment fees).
After transfer: Your award automatically adjusts to cover tuition at your four-year institution (CSU, UC, or private college) while continuing the living stipend if you have Cal Grant B.
Eligibility preservation: As long as you maintain GPA requirements and submit your FAFSA/CADAA annually, your eligibility transfers with you.
Extended deadline benefit: Community college students have until Wednesday, September 2, 2026 to apply, providing more flexibility in timing.
Maximum years remain: If you spend two years at community college, you have two remaining years of eligibility at your four-year school.
How long does it take to receive Cal Grant funds?
The timeline from enrollment to receiving funds typically spans 6-9 weeks:
Week 1-3 of term: School verifies your enrollment after census date
Week 4-5: California Student Aid Commission processes certification and approves payment
Week 6-7: School receives funds and applies them to your student account
Week 7-9: If funds exceed your charges, school processes refund to you (typically within 14 days of receiving payment)
Factors that speed up process:
- Enrolling before term starts
- Completing all verification early
- Ensuring no holds on student account
- Having direct deposit set up with your school
Factors that delay process:
- Registering for classes after term begins
- Dropping below required units after certification
- Outstanding verification requirements
- School administrative delays
What happens if I drop a class after receiving Cal Grant?
Dropping classes can significantly impact your award and create unexpected financial obligations.
Before census date: If you drop before your school’s census date (typically 2-3 weeks into the term), your enrollment adjusts before certification. Your award amount recalculates based on your new unit count, but you won’t owe repayment.
After census date: If you drop after certification but before the end of the term:
- Your school must recalculate your award based on actual units completed
- If the recalculated amount is less than what was disbursed, you owe the difference
- The school bills you for the overpayment
- Non-attendance in courses can result in complete loss of aid for those courses
Complete withdrawal: If you withdraw entirely from school:
- You may need to return all or most of your award
- Federal return of Title IV funds calculations apply
- Can impact future eligibility and create debt
Academic withdrawals: Withdrawing for documented medical or other emergency reasons may receive special consideration. Contact your financial aid office immediately if facing circumstances requiring withdrawal.
Can graduate students receive Cal Grant?
Most programs serve undergraduate students only. However, Cal Grant for Teachers supports credential candidates:
Cal Grant T (Teaching Credential Program):
- Available to students enrolled in a professional teacher preparation program
- Requires commitment to teach in California public schools
- Award amount: Up to $10,000 for programs at private institutions, or actual tuition at CSU
- Must meet income and asset ceilings
- Limited to four years of funding
- Requires teaching service commitment in California public schools
Other graduate options: Graduate students may qualify for:
- Institutional grants and scholarships
- Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans
- Graduate PLUS loans
- Teaching or research assistantships
What is WebGrants and how do I log in?
WebGrants for Students is the online portal where you manage your California state financial aid.
To create an account:
- Visit mygrantinfo.csac.ca.gov
- Click “Create Account”
- Enter your Social Security number or CADAA ID
- Provide date of birth
- Create username and password
- Verify email address
What you can do in WebGrants:
- Check eligibility and award status
- View award amounts and payment history
- Update contact information
- Report school changes
- Upload requested documents
- View GPA verification status
- Submit appeals or special circumstances
- Check renewal requirements
Login troubleshooting: If you cannot access your account:
- Verify you’re using the correct Social Security number or CADAA ID
- Check that your date of birth matches FAFSA/CADAA records
- Use the “Forgot Username/Password” feature
- Contact the commission at 888-224-7268 for account recovery assistance
Security reminder: Never share your WebGrants login credentials. The commission will never ask for your password via email or phone.
How to Maintain and Renew Your Cal Grant Award
Annual Renewal Requirements
Your award does not automatically continue each year. To maintain eligibility:
1. Submit new FAFSA or CADAA annually Deadline: Monday, March 2, 2026 for the 2026-2027 academic year. Even if your financial situation hasn’t changed, you must reapply each year.
2. Maintain minimum GPA
- Cal Grant A and B: 2.0 cumulative GPA or higher
- Checked at the end of each academic year
- Your school reports GPA to the commission automatically
3. Complete required units
- Full-time students: Typically 24 semester units or 36 quarter units per academic year
- Part-time students: Prorated expectations apply
- Units must be completed with passing grades
4. Maintain satisfactory academic progress Your school defines satisfactory academic progress (SAP) standards. Generally includes:
- Minimum GPA requirements
- Completion rate (typically 67% of attempted units)
- Maximum timeframe (150% of program length)
5. Continue demonstrating financial need Your family’s financial situation is reassessed annually through FAFSA/CADAA. If your income rises above eligibility thresholds, you lose the award.
6. Remain enrolled at eligible institution If you transfer schools, update your information in WebGrants to ensure funds direct to the correct institution.
Maximum Years of Eligibility
Four-year limit: Cal Grant A and B provide funding for up to four academic years (equivalent to 12 semesters or 18 quarters for full-time students).
Time calculations:
- Clock starts when you first receive payment, not when you first enroll in college
- Part-time enrollment extends eligibility proportionally (half-time enrollment counts as half a year)
- Gaps in enrollment (taking terms off) don’t extend your eligibility clock
- Years don’t “roll over”—once used, they’re consumed regardless of award amount
Two-year limit for Cal Grant C: Vocational grant recipients receive up to two years of funding.
Planning for four-year graduation:
- Complete 15 units per semester (30 per year) or 15-16 units per quarter (45-48 per year)
- This pace ensures graduation within four years and maximum use of eligibility
- Falling behind may require taking summer courses or paying out-of-pocket for additional terms
What Happens If You Lose Eligibility
GPA drops below 2.0: Immediate loss of eligibility. Some students can appeal or may regain eligibility after raising GPA, but this isn’t guaranteed.
Incomplete unit requirements: Failure to complete minimum units may result in probation or loss of eligibility.
Exceeding maximum timeframe: Once you’ve used four years of eligibility, no additional funding is available regardless of degree completion.
Failed satisfactory academic progress: Schools may place students on financial aid warning or suspension. During suspension, you cannot receive any financial aid including Cal Grants.
Appealing a Loss of Eligibility
If you lose eligibility due to extenuating circumstances, you may appeal:
Valid appeal reasons:
- Serious illness or injury (yours or immediate family member)
- Death of family member
- Significant personal crisis
- Incorrect information on your record
How to appeal:
- Contact your school’s financial aid office immediately
- Provide documentation supporting your circumstances
- Submit required appeal forms
- Include a personal statement explaining how circumstances affected your academics
- Outline your plan for future success
Appeal timing: Submit appeals as soon as you become aware of eligibility loss. Delayed appeals reduce approval chances.
Switching Schools While Receiving Cal Grant
You can transfer your award to a different eligible institution:
Process:
- Log into WebGrants for Students
- Update your school information
- Submit official transcripts to new school
- Complete new school’s financial aid application
- Ensure new school is Cal Grant eligible
Timing considerations: Report school changes before the term begins at your new institution. Delays can postpone disbursement.
Community college to four-year transfer: Your award automatically increases to cover tuition at the four-year institution while preserving remaining years of eligibility.
Four-year to four-year transfer: Award adjusts based on new institution’s costs (CSU, UC, or private college amounts differ).
Maximizing Your Cal Grant Benefits: Pro Tips
1. Apply Early, Even If Information Isn’t Perfect
The earlier you submit your FAFSA or CADAA after it becomes available (October 2025), the better your chances for additional institutional aid with limited funding. You can always update information later using the correction process.
2. Enroll Full-Time When Possible
Full-time enrollment (12+ units) ensures you receive the maximum award amount. It also helps you graduate within the four-year eligibility window, preventing out-of-pocket costs for additional terms.
3. Take Summer Classes Strategically
While summer enrollment typically doesn’t receive Cal Grant funding, taking summer courses can help you:
- Stay on track for four-year graduation
- Make up units if you fell behind
- Graduate early and preserve unused eligibility for graduate school (teaching credentials)
4. Maintain Communication With Financial Aid Office
Build a relationship with your school’s financial aid staff. They can:
- Alert you to additional scholarship opportunities
- Help troubleshoot disbursement issues
- Provide guidance on maintaining eligibility
- Assist with appeals if needed
5. Check WebGrants Regularly
Log in at least monthly to:
- Monitor award status
- Catch requests for additional information early
- Verify correct school listing
- Track disbursement progress
6. Understand Your Complete Aid Package
The grant is just one component. Review your entire financial aid offer to understand:
- Total grant and scholarship amounts (free money)
- Work-study eligibility (earned money)
- Federal loan offers (borrowed money requiring repayment)
- Expected family contribution
- Net cost after all aid
7. Consider the Students With Dependent Children Grant
If you have children under 18 and provide more than half their support, apply for the additional $6,000 access award. This supplemental funding significantly increases total aid.
8. Plan Your Academic Path
Meet with academic advisors to:
- Create a four-year graduation plan
- Identify required courses each term
- Avoid scheduling conflicts that force part-time enrollment
- Understand prerequisites to prevent delays
9. Protect Your GPA
The 2.0 minimum GPA for renewal seems lenient, but some circumstances can threaten it:
- Taking too many units and becoming overwhelmed
- Working excessive hours while attending school
- Not using campus academic support resources
- Withdrawing from classes after earning low grades
Use tutoring centers, office hours, study groups, and time management strategies to maintain strong grades.
10. Report Changes Immediately
Life circumstances change. Report these situations promptly:
- School transfers
- Address changes
- Name changes
- Dependency status changes
- Unexpected financial hardship
Early reporting prevents delays and may open doors to additional support.
Additional Resources and Support
California Student Aid Commission Contact Information
Main customer service:
- Phone: (888) 224-7268
- Email: studentsupport@csac.ca.gov
- Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Pacific Time
Mailing address: California Student Aid Commission P.O. Box 419029 Rancho Cordova, CA 95741-9029
WebGrants for Students portal: mygrantinfo.csac.ca.gov
School Financial Aid Offices
Your institution’s financial aid office serves as your primary resource for:
- School-specific requirements and deadlines
- Certification status
- Disbursement timing
- Additional institutional aid opportunities
- Satisfactory academic progress appeals
Additional California Financial Aid Programs
California Promise Grant (formerly BOG Fee Waiver)
- Waives enrollment fees at California community colleges
- Can combine with Cal Grant B living stipend
- Separate application through community college
Middle Class Scholarship
- Provides up to $5,028 annually for UC/CSU students
- Serves families with income up to $217,000
- Automatically considered when you submit FAFSA/CADAA
Chafee Grant for Foster Youth
- Up to $5,000 annually for current or former foster youth
- Available until age 26
- Separate application required
California Dream Act Service Incentive Grant
- Up to $3,000 annually for CADAA students with Cal Grant B
- Requires 100 hours of community service per quarter
- Helps address unmet financial need
Federal Financial Aid Programs
Federal Pell Grant
- Up to $7,395 for 2025-2026
- Combines with Cal Grant
- No separate application (included with FAFSA)
Federal Direct Loans
- Subsidized loans (government pays interest while in school)
- Unsubsidized loans (interest accrues while in school)
- Annual limits: $5,500 (freshmen), $6,500 (sophomores), $7,500 (juniors/seniors)
Federal Work-Study
- Part-time employment during school year
- Pays at least minimum wage
- Income doesn’t count against financial aid eligibility
Why Cal Grant Matters: The Bottom Line
For hundreds of thousands of California students annually, the program represents the difference between attending college and foregoing higher education entirely. With tuition costs at UC campuses exceeding $14,000 and CSU fees approaching $6,000, even middle-income families struggle to afford four-year degrees.
The program’s no-repayment structure means students graduate without the crushing loan debt that burdens millions of Americans. A student receiving Cal Grant B at a UC campus over four years receives approximately $44,000 in free aid—money that doesn’t require decades of repayment with interest.
Beyond the immediate financial impact, this support enables students to:
- Focus on academics rather than working excessive hours
- Graduate on time, entering careers sooner
- Pursue internships and volunteer opportunities that build resumes
- Avoid the long-term financial stress of student loan debt
- Invest in graduate education or homeownership sooner
To maximize these benefits:
Submit your FAFSA or California Dream Act Application by Monday, March 2, 2026, ensuring your school submits GPA verification by the same deadline. Monitor your WebGrants for Students account regularly for updates and requirements.
Maintain at least a 2.0 GPA and complete required units each academic year. Stay in close communication with your financial aid office to address issues promptly.
California invests over $2 billion annually in this program because education transforms lives, strengthens communities, and drives economic growth. Your job is to take full advantage of this investment by understanding the requirements, meeting deadlines, and using the funding to achieve your educational and career goals.
The application process requires attention to detail and awareness of deadlines, but the payoff—a debt-free college education—makes it one of the most valuable opportunities available to California students. Start your journey today by completing your FAFSA or CADAA and connecting with your school’s financial aid office.