"All students who want to pursue a college education to enrich their lives should have the tools to access funding. Here are some ways you can help pay for college and avoid falling victim to common scholarship scams."

MEGAN DAHLE
ASSEMBLYWOMAN, 1ST DISTRICT

FINANCIAL AID CHECKLIST

Here are a few tips to help you when applying for financial aid:

1. Discuss your financial aid needs with a guidance counselor. Learn about scholarship opportunities through civic groups, nonprofits, businesses and other organizations.
2. Prepare and research any application requirements for upcoming financial aid deadlines. Some private scholarship applications are due earlier than others.
3. The process to complete and file your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form begins on January 1. The form is available at: FAFSA.ed.gov. Apply early as some aid is distributed on a first come, first served basis. The deadline for Cal Grants is March 2.

Lookout for Scholarship Scams

Scholarship scams have become a big business and target many young adults and their families. For a fee, these groups promise to handle the paperwork or claim to have access to specific scholarships. They’re usually scams.

Beware of any financial aid resources or scholarship offers that include the following phrases:

• “The scholarship is guaranteed or your money back.”
• “You can’t get this information anywhere else.”
• “I just need your credit card or bank account number to hold this scholarship.”
• “We’ll do all the work. You just pay a processing fee.”
• “The scholarship will cost some money.”
• “You’ve been selected by a ‘national foundation’ to receive a scholarship.”
• “You’re a finalist” in a contest you never entered.

Where to Find
MONEY FOR COLLEGE

FEDERAL FINANCIAL AID
The federal government provides several financial assistance opportunities for qualified students. Federal grants and loans are offered based on a student’s financial need. To learn more about federal student aid programs, visit StudentAid.gov.

CAL GRANTS
Cal Grants ensure that a college education is accessible and affordable to all California students. California provides grants to help pay your costs at a college or university of your choice, if you meet the requirements. To learn more, visit CSAC.ca.gov.

PRIVATE SCHOLARSHIPS
Many businesses, individuals, and non-profit organizations offer scholarships to help students earn a college degree. Talk with your guidance counselor and use the U.S. Department of Labor’s scholarship search tool at CareerOneStop.org to find scholarships that are right for you.