(CC to UC Transfer)When do we start applying for Financial Aid/Scholarships?

Paying for College
1

<p>So I applied to 5 UCs and am wondering when the Financial Aid/Scholarship application process starts and how it works. I couldn't take advantage of student aid at my community college because my parents haven't done the taxes in many years, but they're trying to get their 2009 Income Tax Return finished(since I can't go to university without it). I'm also planning on visiting my school's Financial Aid office on Monday... yeah... parents are borderline homeless and are eager for me to go on to University so they can runaway to an island and live off the land... hahaha! California born/raised and pretty sure EFC is $0. Also wondering about room and board, textbooks, etc.; parent's won't be able to contribute anything and neither they nor I have anything in our savings.</p>

<p>So... basically when does the process start, how does it work and where can I get information about the multiple ways to take advantage of student aid.</p>

<p>Thanks! Also wondering what kind of life I'll be living while going to university.(ex. how much I'll have to work jobwise... not studywise)</p>

2

<p>Are you going in the spring? If so you should probably already have done your FAFSA and scholarship forms. The schools you have applied to should list their priority deadlines on their websites.</p>

<p>If you are transferring in the fall then you will need to complete the 2011-2012 FAFSA which will be available January 1st, but you will need 2010 tax information. Again the scholarship and FA priority deadlines should be listed on the school’s websites.</p>

3

<p>Check the school sites for campus scholarships, like an alumni award, etc.</p>

4

<p>If you’re low income and have a 0 EFC, then the UC will very likely meet need…</p>

<p>You’ll get…</p>

<p>1) Blue and Gold (covers tuition)</p>

<p>2) Cal Grant - </p>

<p>3) Pell Grant - $5550 if EFC is 0 </p>

<p>4) Fed loans …about $7500 if you’re going to be a junior.</p>

<p>5) work study …about $2500 to cover personal expenses.</p>

<p>Tell your parents to get their tax stuff in order ASAP…the best aid goes to those who submit as soon as they can after Jan 1st.</p>