Paying for college or career training can feel overwhelming, but programs like Cal Grants can make it possible. Unlike loans, Cal Grants are free money you don’t have to pay back. Thousands of California students use them every year to cover tuition and educational costs. If you’re attending a career college like National Career College (NCC), Cal Grants could make a big difference in keeping your education affordable.
This guide walks you through the exact steps to apply, qualify, and keep your Cal Grant; plus how NCC’s Financial Aid team can support you along the way.
Step 1: Check If You’re Eligible
Before applying, confirm that you meet the basic requirements. To be considered for a Cal Grant, you must:
- Be a California resident (or qualify under AB 540/AB 2000, also known as Dreamer eligibility).
- Be enrolled in or plan to attend an eligible California college, university, or career training program.
- Not already hold a bachelor’s or professional degree.
- Meet CSAC’s income and asset ceilings.
- Have a GPA on file (usually from high school or college).
📌 Tip: Not every program or school qualifies. NCC’s Financial Aid office can help verify that your program is Cal Grant–eligible.
Step 2: File the Right Application (FAFSA or CADAA)
The application you file depends on your residency status:
- U.S. citizens & eligible non-citizens → File the FAFSA at studentaid.gov.
- AB 540/Dreamer students → File the California Dream Act Application (CADAA) at dream.csac.ca.gov.
📌 Tip: You only file one application, not both. Submitting the wrong one can delay your aid. Once submitted, watch your email for updates or requests from CSAC.
Need help figuring out what you qualify for?
NCC’s Financial Aid Office can walk you through Cal Grants, Pell Grants, and more.
Learn more about Financial Aid at NCC
Step 3: Verify Your GPA Submission
A common reason students miss out on Cal Grants is a missing GPA verification. Here’s how it works:
- Many high schools and colleges automatically submit GPAs to CSAC.
- But not all schools do, so check with your counselor, registrar, or NCC Financial Aid.
- If yours isn’t submitted, complete the Cal Grant GPA Verification Form and make sure CSAC receives it by the deadline.
Step 4: Mark Your Calendar for Deadlines
Deadlines matter. Missing them usually means waiting another year.
- March 2 – Priority deadline for most Cal Grant applicants. Both your application and GPA must be submitted.
- September 2 – Additional deadline for California Community College students.
📌 Tip: Because deadlines occasionally shift (especially with FAFSA changes), always check the CSAC website for the most up-to-date dates.
Step 5: Create Your WebGrants for Students Account
Once you’ve applied, set up your WebGrants for Students (WGS) account. This is where you:
- View your Cal Grant award.
- Confirm which college you’ll attend.
- Complete follow-up actions or submit documents.
- Track your Cal Grant status year after year.
📌 Tip: Think of WebGrants as your Cal Grant control center. Without logging in, you could miss an important notification.
Step 6: Understand the Three Types of Cal Grants
Cal Grants aren’t one-size-fits-all. The program offers three main types:
- Cal Grant A – Covers tuition and fees at four-year colleges/universities. Often used after a community college transfer.
- Cal Grant B – Provides a living allowance in year one; also helps cover tuition and fees in later years.
- Cal Grant C – Specifically designed for career education and technical training, including many programs at NCC.
📌 Tip: Knowing which one fits your situation helps you plan for what expenses will (and won’t) be covered.
Step 7: Respond to Any Follow-Ups
CSAC or your school may ask for more information, such as tax transcripts, residency documents, or clarification about your program. Log in to WebGrants regularly and reply quickly to avoid delays.
📌 Tip: You’ll also need to confirm your school of attendance in WebGrants. If you plan to attend NCC, make sure your account shows NCC so funds go to the right place.
Step 8: Keep Your Cal Grant Year After Year
Winning a Cal Grant is only the beginning. To keep it, you must:
- Reapply each year by submitting a new FAFSA or CADAA.
- Maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) at your college.
- Stay within CSAC income and asset limits.
- Remain enrolled in an eligible program.
Other Types of Financial Aid
Cal Grants are only one piece of the puzzle. Most students combine them with:
- Federal Pell Grants – Need-based aid that does not need to be repaid.
- Work-Study Programs – Earn money while gaining work experience.
- Scholarships – Merit- or need-based awards from private organizations.
- Payment Plans – Options from your school to spread out tuition costs.
At NCC, the Financial Aid team helps students explore all options to build a complete aid package.
Cal Grants & Financial Aid FAQs
Do Cal Grants cover career colleges like NCC?
Yes, if the program is approved by CSAC. NCC can confirm which programs are eligible.
How much money can I get?
Amounts vary depending on your Cal Grant type, program length, and financial need. Awards are updated annually.
Can undocumented students apply?
Yes. Students who meet AB 540/AB 2000 requirements should apply to the CADAA.
What if I miss the March 2 deadline?
Community college students may still apply by September 2. For others, missing March 2 usually means waiting until the next year.
Do Cal Grants need to be repaid?
No. They are state grants — not loans.
How NCC Helps
The process may sound complicated, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. NCC’s Financial Aid team helps students:
- Decide whether FAFSA or CADAA applies to them.
- Ensure GPAs are correctly submitted.
- Understand which Cal Grant type fits their program.
- Explore additional aid like Pell Grants and scholarships.
From application to graduation, NCC is here to help you stay on track financially.
Take the Next Step Toward Your Future
If you’re ready to take the next step toward your future:
