Financial Aid Basics

Students apply for financial aid each year by completing either the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the California Dream Act Application (CADAA). These applications are used to determine eligibility for federal, state, and institutional grants, loans, and work-study programs. Be sure to complete your application by the state priority filing deadline to maximize your aid opportunities.

Grants Free funds that do not need to be repaid. These are usually awarded based on financial need.

Scholarships Free money awarded for academics, leadership, financial need, or other criteria. Some require applications; others are automatically considered.

Loans Borrowed funds that must be repaid with interest. Federal loans often offer lower interest rates and flexible repayment options.

Work-Study A part-time job program—usually on campus—that allows you to earn money to help cover educational expenses.

Eligibility is based on several factors, including:

• Your FAFSA or CADAA information
• Family income and financial need
• Your enrollment level (full-time or part-time)
• Your academic progress
• Federal, state, and university deadlines

Aid must be renewed each year—be sure to apply by the state priority filing deadline.

The Cost of Attendance is the estimated total cost to attend Stan State for one academic year. It includes:

• Tuition and fees
• Housing and meals
• Books and supplies
• Transportation
• Personal expenses

Your financial aid offer is based on the COA minus the financial resources available to you and your family.

Your net price is what you are expected to pay out of pocket after grants and scholarships are applied. Most Stan State students receive aid that lowers their overall cost. Use our Net Price Calculator to estimate your personalized cost.

Deadlines vary, but applying as early as possible—and no later than the state priority filing deadline—is always recommended.

Common deadlines include:

• FAFSA/CADAA priority deadline
• State grant deadlines
• University scholarship deadlines
• Required form submission dates

Missing a deadline may reduce your eligibility for aid.

After your application is processed and any required documents are submitted, you will receive a financial aid offer outlining the types and amounts of aid you qualify for.

Financial aid typically disburses at the start of each semester. If the amount of aid exceeds your university charges, you may receive a refund to help with other educational expenses.

• Not repaid: Grants and scholarships
• Must be repaid: Loans (with interest) 
• Not repaid: Work-study earnings (you earn them through your job)

If you withdraw or drop below the required enrollment level, your aid may be adjusted.

If your family has a loss of income, medical expenses, or other significant changes, you may request a special circumstance review (Professional Judgment appeal).

You may need to provide documentation such as:

• Job loss verification
• Updated tax information
• Medical bills

A review does not guarantee additional aid, but adjustments may be made based on your situation.

To continue receiving aid, you must meet Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) requirements:

• Maintain the minimum required GPA
• Complete enough attempted credits
• Make progress toward completing your program

If you do not meet SAP, your aid may be affected, but you may submit an appeal.