Scholarships

WHAT ARE SCHOLARSHIPS AND GRANTS?

Grants and scholarships are often called"gift aid' because they are free money-financial aid that doesn't have to be repaid.

Grants and scholarships can come from the federal government, your state government, your college or career school, or a private or nonprofit organization. Do your research, apply for any grants or scholarships you might be eligible for, and be sure to meet application deadlines!

FINANCIAL AID RESOURCES

www.fafsa.gov is where you go to obtain a PIN (Personal Identification Number), learn more about the FAFSA, including step-by-step instructions, file online and check the status of your FAFSA.

www.calgrants.org If you're a graduating high school senior or recent graduate, meet academic, financial and eligibility requirements and submit two forms by the Cal Grant deadline, you may receive a Cal Grant!

www.csac.ca.gov/dream_act.asp provides information about the California Dream Act and is the portal for the California Dream Act Application for financial aid.

www.finaid.org offers an overall look at financial aid, where to look for it and how to get it.

www.californiacashforcollege.org lists free Cash for College workshops in your area where you and your parents can get help filling out the FAFSA. You may even win an additional $1,000 scholarship at a Cash for College workshop.

www.icanaffordcollege.info for information on California Community Colleges and other kinds of financial aid.

www.csac.ca.gov has loads of information about Cal Grants and other programs available through the California Student Aid Commission.

www.ecmc.org for general information about financing for college and managing a student loan.

www.chafee.csac.ca.gov provides information on this exciting opportunity for foster youth and former foster youth.

www.californiacolleges.edu makes finding and applying to a school in California a no-brainer.

www.scholarshare.com provides valuable information about college savings opportunities.

www.studentaid.ed.gov provides information from the U.S. Department of Education.

www.fastweb.com provides free scholarship and college searches.

www.going2college.org to learn about the college and financial aid resources available in each state.

www.latinocollegedollars.org provides a scholarship directory for latino students.