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Press Release

Press Release, Feb. 15, 2018 - California Community Colleges Chancellor Urges Students to Complete the California Dream Act Application Before the March 2 Cal Grant Deadline

Sacramento, Calif. – California Community Colleges Chancellor Eloy Ortiz Oakley is urging eligible students to complete the California Dream Act application by the March 2 Cal Grant deadline in order to get the most financial aid possible. This year’s applications are down 20,000 from last year amidst ongoing uncertainty around immigration reform at the federal level.

“It’s apparent that the national conversation on immigration and deportation continues to create an environment of fear and confusion for many of our students,” said Chancellor Oakley. “Under the California Dream Act, students can apply for state aid regardless of their immigration status, and no student’s personal information is shared at the federal level. The California Student Aid Commission has promised to protect all California Dream Act information to the fullest extent of the law. I encourage all students, including DACA recipients, to apply today for the Cal Grant, as well as other forms of financial aid that are available year-round.”

The California Dream Act allows eligible undocumented students to apply for the same state-based financial aid opportunities available to others.

“The California Community Colleges has always embraced the values of diversity and inclusion. It is what makes our system, and the state of California, strong and prosperous,” said Chancellor Oakley. “The 114-campus system is committed to doing everything in our power to defend Dreamers. The doors remain open to all eligible students and we encourage them to apply for state-based financial aid.”

Dreamers can get information on the California Dream Act, student criteria and available aid by visiting ICanAffordCollege.com

Special Alert to Cal Grant students

The California Student Aid Commission warns students of scams targeting Cal Grant students. There have been reports by students that they have been contacted by individuals claiming to be from the Commission who tell the student that they must pay money to receive, or reserve, their Cal Grant award. THIS IS NOT TRUE.

The Commission and its staff never ask for money or credit card information in order for a student to receive his or her Cal Grant award. A Cal Grant is free money, and students are never charged when applying for one using the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the California Dream Act Application.

Please disregard these calls (or e-mails), and alert authorities immediately if contacted. If you believe you have been a target or a victim of financial aid fraud, please contact the Commission. You may also wish to file a report with your police department and/or notify the following agencies:

California Attorney General’s Office
(800) 952-5225

Federal Trade Commission

Last Updated 8/14/24