Your Guide to Financial Aid at CSUSB
We know paying for college can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. At CSUSB, there are many resources to help you fund your education and keep costs manageable. The Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships is here to guide you and your family—making the process clear, supportive, and focused on minimizing debt after graduation. You’ll find workshops on FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid), CADAA (California Dream Act), and scholarships, along with the forms you need. And if you have questions, the team is ready to meet with you by phone or in person.
Helpful Dates & Deadlines
FAFSA Opens October 1
FAFSA application priority deadline is March 2
School code: 001142
CADAA Opens October 1
CADAA application priority deadline is March 2
School code: 001142
August
Aid disbursement begins for students starting in fall semester
Getting Started with Financial Aid
The first step to getting financial aid is filling out an application. Most students will complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which is used to determine eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. Some students, depending on their situation, will complete the California Dream Act Application (CADAA) instead. You only need to submit one—either the FAFSA or CADAA—to be considered for financial aid at CSUSB.
Once your application is in, you’ll be considered for different types of aid, including grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study. Many CSUSB students use a mix of these resources to keep college affordable and cover as much of their costs as possible.
The Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships is your go-to resource for all things financial aid. Our team can guide you through completing your applications, explain what types of aid you qualify for, and walk you through the disbursement process—how and when you’ll actually receive your funds.
“Being a first-generation college student, I'm graduating four years with no debt, and financial aid helped me with a lot of covering my college. I would encourage any student who is thinking about not going to college because of financial reasons to still try, to still do their best, and to look into any resource and any scholarship that is open and available.”
Erinea House, ’25
Major: Information systems and technology with a concentration in cybersecurity
Types of Aid at CSUSB
Support for Military & Veteran Students
CSUSB is proud to serve those who serve our country. While Veterans Affairs (VA) Educational Benefits are not awarded directly by the university, students and dependents who are eligible can get expert guidance through the Veterans Success Center. You’ll also find helpful resources on the VA’s GI Bill website, ensuring you have the support you need to access and manage your benefits.
Learn More About CSUSB
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