Important Facts
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You must file a California Dream Act Application before each academic year to be considered for financial aid.
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The California Dream application opens in December.
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The UC San Diego school code for your California Dream Act Application is 001317.
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Students applying for the Cal Grant for the first time in 2025-26 must submit a GPA Verification form to the California Student Aid Commission by March 2, 2025. The form is available online at csac.ca.gov.
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State and UC San Diego financial aid includes grants, loans and work-study (with a valid work authorization).
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To receive priority funding, file your 2024-25 California Dream Act Application no later than the May 2 extended state deadline (for 2025-26 the extended deadline is April 2, 2025.
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Students can continue to apply on or after May 3 for other limited financial aid consideration.
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The California Dream Act Application requires the previous’ year’s tax information.
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2024-25 academic year, use the 2022 tax return information.
- 2025-26 academic year, use the 2023 tax return information
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You may need to verify your tax information with an IRS Tax Transcript.
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Submit all financial aid documents the published deadlines for the academic year. The Financial Aid and Scholarships Office may ask you for additional documents after you file your California Dream Act Application. Check your UC San Diego e-mail account often, and make sure you submit any additional documents or clear any California Dream Act Application rejects by the published deadlines.
Video Resources
Videos focus on applying for financial aid and offer tips on other methods of financing your education.
FAQ
Have questions? Use this resource to find answers to all your frequently asked questions.