Supporting Your Student’s Journey: Financial Aid & Scholarships
We understand that paying for college can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. At Cal State San Bernardino, the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships is here to guide your student—and your family—every step of the way. Our team is committed to making the process clear and manageable while helping to keep college affordable and reduce debt after graduation.
From FAFSA and CADAA workshops to scholarship resources and financial aid forms, we provide the tools your student needs to succeed. And if questions come up, our staff is ready to connect with you by phone or in person to provide answers and peace of mind.
Helpful Dates & Deadlines
October 1
FAFSA application opens June 30, 2026
School code: 001142
January 1
CADAA application opens April 2 every year
School code: 001142
August
Aid disbursement begins for students starting in fall semester
My Coyote Journey with Financial Aid
“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
Understanding the Types of Financial Aid
When it comes to paying for college, most families use more than one kind of aid. Your student might combine a grant with a scholarship, accept a loan, or take part in a work-study job on campus. Exploring multiple options is often the best way to reduce costs—and almost every student can qualify for some form of support.
As you review your student’s eligibility, keep in mind that FAFSA considers whether they are a dependent. If your student is dependent, federal law requires parents’ financial information to be included in the application process. This helps the U.S. Department of Education determine the types and amounts of aid available.
Here’s a quick overview of the main types of aid:
Types of Aid at CSUSB
Your Family’s Guide to Applying for Financial Aid
The first step in securing funding for your student’s education is completing the right application. Most families will use the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which determines eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. Some students, depending on their situation, will instead complete the California Dream Act Application (CADAA). Every student must submit one of these applications to be considered for aid.
Once the application is filed, we encourage you to explore the full range of support available. Aid can come from many sources—federal and state grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study opportunities. Many CSUSB students combine several types of funding to help cover the cost of their education.
The CSUSB Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships is here to support both you and your student. Our team can answer questions, guide you through applications, explain what aid your family qualifies for, and walk you through the disbursement process—so you’ll know how and when funds are received.
Support for Military-Connected Families
Cal State San Bernardino is proud to welcome students who serve, or whose family members have served, our country. While VA Educational Benefits are awarded directly through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, CSUSB is here to help your family navigate the process. Our Veterans Success Center provides dedicated guidance and resources, and additional information can be found on the VA’s GI Bill website.
What CSUSB Offers Your Student
At Cal State San Bernardino, your student will find more than just classes—they’ll find opportunities to grow, a supportive community, and an environment filled with energy and purpose. Explore our nationally recognized academic programs and get a glimpse of what it means to be part of the Coyote family.