What is the Cal Grant and who qualifies?

Cal Grant A covers tuition at UC, CSU, and eligible private colleges; Cal Grant B provides a living allowance plus tuition for lower-income students. File FAFSA by March 2 and verify at csac.ca.gov.

Should I take federal or private student loans in California?

Exhaust federal loans and Cal Grant before any private loan. Federal loans offer income-driven repayment and PSLF protections. Apply at studentaid.gov before any private lender.

Does California have a student loan forgiveness program?

California does not have a broad state-funded forgiveness program, but it has one of the highest concentrations of PSLF-qualifying nonprofit and government employers. See studentaid.gov for PSLF eligibility.

What is in-state tuition at UC and CSU schools?

In-state fees vary by campus — visit universityofcalifornia.edu or calstate.edu for current published rates. UC and CSU in-state rates are substantially lower than out-of-state.

How do I compare private student loans in California?

After Cal Grant, federal loans, and Middle Class Scholarship, compare private lenders on APR and repayment flexibility. CSAC at csac.ca.gov lists additional state aid programs.

Student Loans in California

California's Cal Grant A and B programs are among the most generous state-need-based grants in the nation for qualifying residents. The Middle Class Scholarship (MCS) expands eligibility to households earning up to $201,000. UC and CSU system in-state tuition is substantially lower than out-of-state. The California Dream Act extends state aid to AB 540-eligible undocumented students.

More California guides

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