California Student Aid Commission · Varies · Priority deadline each March (September for community college)
When it comes back
Priority deadline each March (September for community college)
The FAFSA or CADAA must be submitted by the March 2 priority deadline to maximize financial aid opportunities or by September 2 if attending or planning to attend a California Community College.
California resident, financial need, high school GPA, enrolled at least half-time, first undergraduate degree
How to win it
Strong applicants clearly meet every requirement: california resident, financial need, high school gpa, enrolled at least half-time, first undergraduate degree. Apply early and double-check the deadline, since local awards often have small applicant pools and reward the well-prepared.