Parent Resources

The FAFSA and CADAA are both financial aid applications, but students only complete one.

• The FAFSA, or Free Application for Federal Student Aid,  is for U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens.
• The CADAA, or California Dream Act Application, is for undocumented students and certain non-resident students.

Both applications open in the fall, and families are encouraged to submit as early as possible to access the widest range of grants, scholarships and work-study opportunities.

After submission, students receive a confirmation and later a Student Aid Report (SAR) or California Student Aid Report (Cal SAR).

Colleges then review these details to create a financial aid offer. Students may be asked to verify information by submitting additional documents.

Once offers arrive, families can compare them to understand total costs, grants, loans and work-study.

Scholarships come from schools, local organizations, nonprofits and national programs. 

Students should explore opportunities early, review eligibility requirements and apply to as many as they can. Many scholarships do not require citizenship status.

Local agencies such as the Community Foundation for Monterey County and statewide databases like California Colleges are strong starting points.

Some colleges require or recommend SAT or ACT test scores, while others are fully test-free. Students should check the requirements for the institutions they’re considering. 

Free online prep resources, practice tests and school-based programs can help students build confidence. Registration should be completed well in advance of planned test dates.

Students can begin exploring options as early as 10th or 11th grade by visiting campuses, taking virtual tours, and using college search tools. 

As they explore, they should consider size, location, academic programs, support services, financial fit and campus culture. Understanding their priorities early makes the application process far less stressful.

11th-grade students should focus on building strong study habits, challenging themselves academically, exploring careers, attending college fairs and preparing for standardized tests if needed.

12th-grade students spend more time completing applications, writing essays, requesting recommendation letters, applying for financial aid and meeting deadlines. Staying organized is key. Using planners, reminders or school-provided tools can help keep everything on track.

After acceptance, students should review their financial aid offers, submit required documents, attend orientation, apply for housing (if needed) and register for classes.

During their first year, students benefit from meeting with advisors, engaging in academic support services and getting involved on campus. These early habits build confidence and long-term success.