Cal Grant Question

<p>I'm finding the Cal Grant eligibility guidelines to be a little confusing so I just want to make sure I am understanding my situation correctly.</p>

<p>I first applied and received a Cal Grant B award while attending a community college during my second year of school when I was a sophomore. My understanding is that you are able to receive a Cal Grant for up to four years in college as long as you do not go beyond senior standing which would cut your eligibility short if you were to apply after your freshman year. This would mean that the 4 years you are supposed to be eligible to receive a Cal Grant is irrelevant to the actual number of years you claim it while attending school. </p>

<p>I transferred as a junior to a four-year college after completing two-years of community college and am currently finishing up in my fifth year of college but am no longer eligible for the Cal Grant as my educational level has surpassed senior standing however this would only be my fourth year of receiving the Cal Grant. So my understanding is that I have essentially forfeited a year of Cal Grant aid by not claiming it my freshman year while at community college.</p>

<p>If I'm correct, however, it would have only been the $1551 I forfeited because Cal Grant B awards while attending CC cannot exceed that amount (in 2010) regardless of the number of years you attend CC and tuition related amounts for attending a four-year university in the future cannot be put on reserve with a Cal Grant B award. </p>

<p>Any insight on this would be greatly appreciated.</p>