​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Financial Aid
Financial Aid

More than 80% of students at the California State University (CSU) receive some type of financial aid. That means chances are good that you're eligible for financial aid, too! That's why it's important to apply for aid using the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the California Dream Act Application (CADAA) as soon as possible. Be sure to include the Federal School Code for all the CSU campuses you've applied to or for the campus that you attend.

The priority application date is typically March 2 of each year for the upcoming school year. For 2024-2025 however, that date was extended to May 2, 2024. If you miss the priority application date, you may still be eligible for aid so submit your application as soon as possible!

Use the FAFSA if you are:

  • a U.S. citizen or
  • a permanent resident or
  • an eligible noncitizen or
  • a T-Visa holder

Use the CADAA if you:

  • are undocumented or
  • hold a valid or expired Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) designation or
  • are a U-Visa holder or
  • have Temporary Protected Status (TPS)

AND

If you're unsure as to whether you should submit the FAFSA or the CADAA, the California Student Aid Commission provides guidance on eligibility.

Questions about Mixed-Status Families?

What is a Mixed-Status Family?

You are in a mixed-status family if you:

  • You are a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen AND 
  • parent(s) or spouse (FAFSA contributors) do not have a Social Security number (SSN)

For more information on your option visit the California Student Aid Commission’s website for Mixed-Status Families.


Financial Aid Offices at
CSU Campuses

Your single best source of information is the financial aid office at the campus you’ll be attending.​​

Apply for Financial Aid

The FAFSA or the CADAA must be submitted annually to apply for financial aid each year.


​​


​Net Price Cost Calculator

Use the Net Price Cost Calculator tool for the CSU campus(es) you’re interested in attending to estimate the cost of attendance and your eligibility for need-based financial aid such as grants and loans.​


​​

Types of Financial Aid

Grants

A grant is given by the federal government, CSU or state as a gift.

Loans

Loan money is given to you now, but must be  repaid later.

Scholarships & Fellowships

These are typically given for academic achievement.

Veterans’ Aid​​​​

​These types of aid can help veterans pay for ​school.

Work-Study

Work-study programs allow you to work to help pay for ​​school.​