<p>I can’t comment on the Cal grant program but suggest you search for posts on the subject by Kender, who is a UC student with a very thorough knowledge of the system and has posted great explanations in the past.</p>
<p>Your 0 EFC means you’re entitled to the maximum federal Pell grant, which is currently $5550. You’ll also be eligible for $5500 in federal Stafford loans, of which $3500 will be subsidized (no interest accrues until you graduate or drop below half-time). The school may offer you other aid like federal work study, SEOG (grant), and a Perkins loan, which is also subsidized.</p>
<p>Are you commuting or living on campus next year?</p>
<p>After the 1st year, it is 1551 plus the tuition/fees cost for your school. Everything subject to the state budget, of course! I just read in the paper this morning that the Pell grants might be cut - don’t know if that means cut totally or partially. Cal Grants might be next in line.</p>