Cal Grant A Trouble

<p>I will be attending UCSD in the Fall. On the FAFSA I am considered an independent with zero income, and zero expected family contribution. I have a 3.7gpa which is above the minimum.</p>

<p>I was supposed to get Cal Grant A (up to $11,124 for the year) and instead I will be awarded Cal Grant B (up to $1,551 for the year).</p>

<p>The website said I was qualified for, but not awarded Cal Grant A. When I looked into what that meant it said "Although you qualified for this award, based on your current school of attendance, it was financially advantageous for you to receive another type of Cal Grant. You are only eligible to receive one Cal Grant type."</p>

<p>I'm in trouble if I'm only getting $1,500 off the $27,000 cost of attendance...</p>

<p>Did this happen to anyone else? Is it a mistake? help.</p>

<p>That’s strange. Cal Grant B usually gives more.
I think this up to 1,551 just additional money for books and living expenses. Plus 11,124 covering systemwide fees.
Cal Grant B Entitlement awards provides low-income students with a living allowance and assistance with tuition and fees. Most first-year students receive an allowance of up to $1,551 for books and living expenses. After the freshman year, Cal Grant B also helps pay tuition and fees in the same amount as a Cal Grant A. For a Cal Grant B, your coursework must be for at least one academic year.
Cal Grant B Entitlement awards provides low-income students with a living allowance and assistance with tuition and fees. Most first-year students receive an allowance of up to $1,551 for books and living expenses. After the freshman year, Cal Grant B also helps pay tuition and fees in the same amount as a Cal Grant A. For a Cal Grant B, your coursework must be for at least one academic year.</p>

<p>I did not know that Cal Grant B was extended to tuition. If that is true, I can breathe a sigh of relief. What a confusing system. Thanks for the info.</p>

<p>It is confusing but I am sure you fine.</p>

<p>Cal Grant B is always worth more than A even for frosh. The tuition/fee assistance shortfall is made up by the school the freshman year (this is guaranteed in writing at the UCs due to the promise made by Blue&Gold). Assuming you’re a transfer, you do not have to worry about that issue. You will get $3,102 more than you would have with A.</p>

<p>I can guarantee you will be fine because I receive Cal Grant B myself.</p>