Your award is based on your EFC (estimated family contribution) from FAFSA (what they think you should pay, it doesn’t matter what you think you should pay). Look over your packages and make sure you understand what different awards are, if you have more questions, call their financial aid dept and have them explain it to you (they are usually very helpful, ask about differences). However, California public schools are not going to negotiate with you like a private school or a school looking for more enrollment…it is what it is.