Cal Grants: a boost for low-income students

Here's the basic info on Cal Grants. The main things to know is that these are not loans and they are based on need.

From the Cal Grants website:

...it's money you don't have to pay back. ... If you're a graduating high school senior or recent graduate, meet academic, financial and eligibility requirements and submit two forms by March 2, you are guaranteed a Cal Grant!

... With a Cal Grant you can get up to $9,700 a year to pay for college expenses at any qualifying California college, university or career or technical school in California. Depending on which Cal Grant you get, the money can be used for tuition, room and board, even books and pencils. The best part is, it's yours to keep and you don't have to pay it back.

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

I haven't researched so far as to learn what the qualifying income levels are, but needless to say, if there's any chance you might qualify, check into it.