Story by: Trevor McCormick, Staff Writer
Photo by: Trevor McCormick, Staff Writer
As the fall semester nears its end, Cypress College students are reminded to complete their loan applications through the FAFSA or California Dream Act Application by April 2. This date marks the priority deadline for several state programs, including Cal Grants.
Although students can still apply for federal aid after April 2, missing the priority deadline could reduce eligibility for state funding. Limited state funding has become a concern due to inflation, making it important to submit applications on time. Students must also ensure that they include Cypress College’s federal school code, 001193, on their FAFSA for college verification.
After submitting their financial aid applications, students are required to complete their file of financial assistance on the myGateway webpage. This includes submitting necessary tax and verification forms for background check purposes. Additionally, students must maintain academic progression in all classes and ensure that they meet eligibility requirements.
Cypress College offers a range of assistance, including Pell Grants, Cal Grants, Federal Work-Study, and federal student loans. The campus also administers a California College Promise Grant that can waive enrollment fees for any students who are eligible residents in the state of California. For the Cal Grants, grant B is available while attending Cypress, but grant A is restricted until a student transfers to a CSU or UC campus elsewhere.
Thanks to the Cypress College Foundation, there is an annual application cycle that offers a wide range of donor-funded scholarships. Emergency assistance is also a valid option for anyone who is undergoing financial hardship on campus. A list of scholarships from off-campus is kept by the Financial Aid Office, and they are known to have monthly deadlines.
The Financial Aid staff stresses that filing your applications earlier than the deadline is very important for students who are planning to transfer to CSU, UC, or other campuses. Cal Grants and other state programs can follow them wherever they go.
