Everything needs to be in before March 2nd of each year. You have to apply for this every year.
- Cal Grants are for students who are pursuing an undergraduate degree or vocational or career training, and do not have to be repaid. In addition to meeting the financial criteria and Cal Grant requirements, you must:
submit the FAFSA or CADAA application and your verified Cal Grant GPA by the deadline
be a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen or meet AB540 eligibility criteria
be a California resident for 1 year
attend a qualifying California college
not have a bachelor’s or professional degree
have financial need at the college of your choice
have family income and assets below the minimum levels
be enrolled or plan to enroll in a program leading to an undergraduate degree or certificate
be enrolled or plan to enroll at least half time
have registered with the U.S. Selective Service, if required to do so
not owe a refund on any state or federal grant or be in default on a student loan
not be incarcerated
maintain the Satisfactory Academic Progress standards as established by the school. Recipients who do not meet the standards are ineligible for Cal Grant payment and will not use eligibility during the terms they are ineligible for payment. *
I’m attaching a fact sheet that may answer some of your questions.
https://www.csac.ca.gov/sites/main/files/file-attachments/understanding_my_cal_grant_-_updated_11.21.17.pdf?1523981665