Does every CSU offer you a different package? Do they also look at your test score and GPA to determine aide? Because I’m disappointed with the estimate that FAFSA gave me… I’m just wondering if each CSU will offer me a different amount of aide? Because obviously my local school should give me less money because I would be living at home right?
FASFA is for Federal aid and dependent upon family income. What is your FASFA EFC?
In addition to Federal aid, California offers Cal grants based on income. Did you run the Net Price calculators for each CSU? The Net price calculators will give you a better estimate of aid if you are a California resident since it may include the Cal Grants along with Federal grants such as the Pell Grants.
If you commute, your cost of attendance would be lower than living on-campus, so again the aid you receive will also depend upon your living situation.
You should read over the types of aid available to you.
https://www.calstate.edu/SAS/sfa_index.shtml
http://www.csac.ca.gov/facts/2017-18_income_and_asset_ceilings.pdf
@Gumbymom my EFC is 004196, does that mean schools will not expect me to pay over that amount each year?
Each school will determine how much you pay. $4196 is the minimum you will be expected to pay and CSU’s do not meet 100% need so will most likely pay more than your EFC. Did you try the Net Price calculator on the CSU website that I linked? This will give you an idea of your costs.
@Gumbymom why isn’t CSUSM on the net price calculator? Thank you for your help!
There is a separate link for the CSUSM NPC. https://www.csusm.edu/disclosures/calculator/npcalc.html