New for Class of 2023: FAFSA/CADAA Graduation Requirement

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or California Dream Act Application (CADAA) determines a student’s eligibility for financial aid to assist with a student’s attendance at a college or career school. California Education Code (CEC) § 51225.7 requires a local educational agency to confirm each 12th-grade student’s completion and submission of a FAFSA or CADAA unless the student is determined to be exempt or an opt-out form is completed. 

For guidance on whether you should complete the FAFSA or CADAA learn more here. 

Why apply?

• Apply for government grants, loans, and work study all in one application

• Access to free money for college

• You don’t know your eligibility until you apply

• It can only benefit you!

• As ‘insurance’ in case your family’s income falls.

• Can benefit high-income applicants to need-aware colleges.

This opt-out form permits a student to opt out of the completion of a FAFSA or CADAA form graduation requirement. Completing this graduation requirement opt-out form does not prevent you from applying for the FAFSA or CADAA.

October 1

• Cal Grant GPA submission begins
• Talk to your high school about submitting your GPA before March 2
• Online CA Dream Act Application opens
• Make sure you submit the CA Dream Act Application before March 2
• Get help at a Cash for College workshop in your area

March 2

• March 2, is the priority financial aid filing deadline for most colleges and universities and the absolute deadline for submission of your Cal Grant application (CA Dream Act Application + GPA)
• If you or your school submits your certified GPA using your DACA SSN, make sure you include that DACA SSN on question #8 of your CA Dream Act Application
• Better yet, submit a Non-SSN GPA to the CA Student Aid Commission

After March 2

• Some colleges, especially community colleges, accept the CA Dream Act Application throughout the year. Check with your campus Financial Aid Office.