Your Guide to Staying on Top of Financial Aid
Financial aid is a step-by-step process that students complete each year, and staying organized makes all the difference. This guide from California State University, San Bernardino simplifies what to do, when to do it, and where to go for help. While financial aid can feel complex, you can stay on track by following a few key steps and important deadlines.
Financial Aid Applications and You
The first and most important step in receiving financial aid is completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid or the California Dream Act Application. Submitting one of these applications determines your eligibility for grants, loans, work-study, and some scholarships. Be sure to apply every year, and apply early to maximize the amount of aid you may receive.
Complete the FAFSAComplete the CADAA
Your Annual Financial Aid Checklist
The FAFSA and CADAA are the main applications used to determine eligibility for financial aid, including grants, loans, work-study and some scholarships.
- FAFSA: For U.S. citizens and eligible noncitizens
- CADAA: For eligible California students who do not qualify for federal aid
FAFSA School Code: 001142
Applying early can help maximize the amount of aid you may receive.
Additional documentation may be needed before your aid can be finalized.
Students should regularly check their To-Do List in MyCoyote for:
- outstanding items,
- required forms,
- and important instructions.
Submitting requested documents promptly can help prevent delays in awarding and disbursing aid.
Once your application is processed, review your financial aid offer carefully to understand the grants, scholarships, loans and other aid available to you.
Your financial aid offer may include grants, scholarships, loans and other types of aid based on your eligibility and enrollment. Grants, scholarships and other eligible aid are automatically accepted on your behalf. Student loans are optional and require action from you if you choose to borrow them.
Be sure to review your offer carefully and complete any next steps as soon as possible to help avoid delays in processing or disbursement.
To continue receiving financial aid, students must:
- maintain satisfactory academic progress (SAP),
- complete enough units each term,
- and remain in good academic standing.
Key Financial Aid Deadlines
October 1
FAFSA and CADAA applications open
March 2
California priority deadline for FAFSA and CADAA
January
Spring aid disbursement begins
August
Fall aid disbursement begins
Understanding the types of financial aid
Financial aid includes grants, scholarships, work-study, and loans to help cover college costs. Explore each option in more detail on the dedicated pages from California State University, San Bernardino.
Maintaining Financial Aid Eligibility – Understanding SAP
To continue receiving financial aid at California State University, San Bernardino, students must meet Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) requirements. This means maintaining a minimum GPA, completing enough units each term, and making steady progress toward your degree. If you’re struggling, support resources are available, and staying informed can help you remain eligible.
Stay on Track as You Budget for College
As you plan for college expenses, continue exploring how financial aid fits into your overall budget and long-term goals. CSUSB offers helpful tools and resources to guide you in making informed financial decisions. Staying proactive can help you manage costs and stay on track throughout your college journey.
Financial Aid FAQs for Students
Yes. If you want to be considered for financial aid each academic year, you'll need to submit a new FAFSA or California Dream Act Application (CADAA) annually. Filing each year helps ensure you're considered for grants, scholarships, work-study and student loans for the upcoming academic year. Be sure to submit your application by the published deadlines.
You can check the status of your financial aid through your myCoyote student portal. There, you can view your financial aid application status, see if any documents are needed, review your award offer, accept eligible aid and monitor your disbursement information. Check your student portal regularly, as additional information or documentation may be requested before your aid can be processed.
Missing a financial aid deadline may reduce the types or amount of aid you're eligible to receive, and some funding may no longer be available. If you miss a deadline or experience a special circumstance that affects your ability to apply on time, contact the CSUSB Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships as soon as possible. In some cases, students with qualifying special circumstances may be eligible to request a review of their financial aid eligibility.
Financial aid is typically disbursed before the start of each semester, provided you've completed all required steps and are eligible to receive your aid. Your financial aid will first be applied to your CSUSB student account to pay for tuition, fees and other eligible university charges. If your financial aid exceeds the amount you owe, the remaining balance will be refunded to you through direct deposit or by mailed check. Check your MyCoyote student portal regularly to monitor your financial aid status and any outstanding requirements.
