State Aid Programs
State funds can include grant assistance as well as loan guarantees. California, for example, offers need-based state grant programs that rank among the best in the nation. The California Student Aid Commission, located in Sacramento, administers these programs from funds appropriated each year by the State Legislature. Awards for undergraduate study leading to a bachelor's degree are made through two grant programs: Cal Grant A and Cal Grant B.

Cal Grants A
These awards, based on need, are made to undergraduate students to be used at any approved California college or university. All California residents seeking aid are required to apply. Awards may range from $600 to $9,708 at Pomona College. Eligibility is determined by the California Student Aid Commission.

Cal Grants B
These awards are made to students from disadvantaged backgrounds. The award for most first year students is $1,551 and may be applied to living expenses, books, supplies, and transportation as well as tuition and fees.  Renewal of this award beyond the first year in college includes the $1,551 as well as a tuition and fee award - the same amount as the Cal Grant A award. To be eligible for this grant during 2009-2010 an applicant may not have completed more than one semester of full-time college work or 16 semester units of part-time college work prior to June 30, 2009. Eligibility is determined by the California Student Aid Commission.

The application required for Cal Grant consideration is the FAFSA. Students are also required to file a GPA Verification Form. The application deadline is March 2, 2010, however, we suggest students apply by the College deadline of February 1, 2010.