January 20, 2010

With graduation just a few months away for high school seniors, the reality of college costs is beginning to set in. High school seniors and their parents can eliminate some stress and possibly make the financial burden of college less by completing a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) application and applying for a Cal Grant. Cal Grants offer cash for college that doesn’t have to be repaid! In addition to grants, the FAFSA application may also provide an opportunity for low-interest loans. Current college students and any adult 18 years of age or older interested in attending college may also apply to receive a Cal-Grant.

The Cal Grant program is the California Student Aid Commission’s merit- and need-based financial aid program. In order to be eligible, there are a few simple qualifications: high school students must be seniors or recent graduates, have at least a 2.0 GPA, meet eligibility and financial requirements and submit two forms by the March 2 deadline—it’s that easy.

In order to help with the application process, the Central Coast Cal-SOAP offices at Allan Hancock College and Cuesta College are cosponsoring a series of free Cash for College Workshops to help students and parents fill out the forms. Spanish-speaking staff will be available. Attention high school seniors: Attending a workshop may also result in a bonus $1,000 scholarship! Dates and locations are:

If you want to get started with your free FAFSA application, find it at www.fafsa.ed.gov. The Cal Grant GPA verification form is available at www.csac.ca.gov, but make sure to check with your high school counselor before you submit the form. Since counselors are required to complete part of this form, some high schools may submit the Cal Grant GPA verification for you.

Both forms must be sent to the California Student Aid Commission and postmarked by March 2, 2010.

Those planning to attend a Cash for College workshop must bring with them the following information:

• student’s Social Security number and driver’s license or other government-issued ID
• parent’s Social Security number (optional)
• parents’ federal income tax return or W-2 forms from tax year 2008 or 2009
• records of untaxed income such as TANF, veterans benefits or Social Security benefits
• student’s W-2 forms, pay records or records of income earned during 2008 or 2009
• bank account records or statements
• records of stocks, bonds and/or investments
• business records
• permanent residency card (if not a U.S. citizen)
• a list of their preferred colleges

For information about the local workshops, call the Central Coast Cal-SOAP office at (805) 922-6966 [or toll free 1-866-DIAL AHC (342-5242)], ext. 3710.

For additional information on Cal Grants, log on to www.calgrants.org or call toll-free (888) CA-GRANT
(224-7268).

- AHC -