Who Qualifies 

Are you Eligible for a Cal Grant?

If you are a California graduating high school senior or recent graduate, or just got your GED, and meet academic, financial and eligibility requirements and submit two forms by March 2 then you may qualify for a Cal Grant for college or career or technical school.

To be eligible for a Cal Grant you must:

• Submit the FAFSA and your verified Cal Grant GPA by the deadline
• Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen (your parents don’t need to be citizens or eligible noncitizens)
• Be a California resident when you graduated from high school
• Have a Social Security number
• Attend a qualifying California college
• Not have a bachelor’s or professional degree (except for Cal Grant A and B extended awards for a teaching credential program)
• Have financial need based on your college costs
• Have family income and assets below the established ceilings
• Meet any minimum GPA requirements
• Be in a program leading to an undergraduate degree or certificate
• Be enrolled at least half time
• Have registered with U.S. Selective Service (most males)
• Not owe a refund on a state or federal grant, or be in default on a student loan

Four chances to get a Cal Grant Entitlement Award!

You can apply for a Cal Grant Entitlement Award in one of four ways:

1. Within one year after you graduate. So even if you have to go straight to work before going to college, you don't have to miss out on a Cal Grant.
2. As a community college transfer student, as long as you are under the age of 28.
3. As a high school senior.
4. Within one year of getting your GED.

Got a GED? Don’t Have a GPA? You Can Get a Cal Grant.

Some students don't have a GPA, so certain test scores can be used instead. Please submit your test score along with the GPA Verification Form.

• If you have a GED, submit your GED score directly to the California Student Aid Commission.
• If you graduated from a school that doesn't provide grades, is not accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges or another regional accrediting agency, or doesn't have a course list approved by the University of California you must provide your ACT, SAT or GED score.
• If you were home-schooled or attended a charter school you must submit your ACT, SAT or GED score.
• If you graduated from high school more than five years ago you may provide your SAT or ACT score, or use a re-established GPA from your grades at a California Community College.