California scholarships and state aid
These are restricted to California residents specifically. It's the kind of local award that's easy to miss because it's never on the big national scholarship sites.
Most scholarships on this site have no state restriction at all, so it's worth also browsing the full list regardless of where you live. Know of a local California scholarship, through a school, Rotary club, or church, that isn't listed here? Let us know.
Open scholarships for California residents (3)
- California Middle Class ScholarshipAmount varies
California Student Aid Commission (CSAC)
California residents attending a UC or CSU campus can qualify for this need-based award as long as family income is under $217,000. No separate application is needed beyond the FAFSA or CADAA.
Apply by Mar 2, 2027 - California Cal Grant (High School Entitlement Award)$1,648–$14,934
California Student Aid Commission
California high school seniors and recent grads with a 3.0 GPA or better and financial need can get this state grant. Cal Grant A covers up to $14,934 a year at a UC, $6,450 at a CSU, or $9,358 at a private nonprofit college, while Cal Grant B offers a smaller award for students with lower GPAs or income. You'll need to file the FAFSA or CADAA and verify your GPA.
Apply by Mar 2, 2027 - California Chafee Grant for Foster YouthUp to $5,000
California Student Aid Commission
Current and former foster youth who were wards of the court between ages 16 and 18 can get up to $5,000 a year ($4,500 for 2026-27) for college or career school. You have to be under 26 on July 1 of the award year and enrolled at least half-time.
The application opens October 1 each year, so check chafee.csac.ca.gov for the current deadline