Hi, as a new college student, I will be attending a CC for the Fall 2016 semester. WebGrant shows that I am awarded with Cal Grant B, with the amount being $1670 and the remaining eligibility being 4 years. I am planning on transferring to an UC after 2 years at my CC. I’ve done some research on this particular topic and asked questions at my Financial Aid Office but I still haven’t come to a conclusion as to why students may want to choose to put the grant on hold. If I don’t necessarily need the money right now, what would be the benefits of putting it on hold? I’ve been told the money doesn’t stack, so I’m a bit perplexed as to why someone would put it on hold. Is it something tuition related?
Definitely double-check with your FA office. They should be able to explain better for you.
Like you said, eligibility is 4 years. So one reason someone might choose to NOT take it during an inexpensive year in CC is if they anticipate transferring and ending up with a 5th year of college at a more expensive school.
What I’m understanding is that putting the grant on hold is being careful in the case that the student doesn’t graduate in 4 years. What would happen to the money if I graduate without cashing in on the grant during my 2 years at CC and only cashing in during my 2 years at university? Since the money doesn’t stack, I’m assuming that it will be gone. Otherwise it seems to be a more logical choice to save eligibility until students reach university since the amount awarded is higher; unless that student absolutely needs the money during CC.
Thank you for your time, I’ll definitely check in with my FA Office about this topic again, but I wanted to hear some more opinions first.