Scholarship Opportunity

Middle Class Scholarship

Offered by California Student Aid Commission

The Middle Class Scholarship provides financial assistance to eligible low- and middle-income California undergraduate students, including certain students pursuing a teaching credential, who attend a University of California campus, California State University campus, or qualifying California Community College bachelor’s degree program.

EssayNot required
RenewableYes
Grade LevelHigh School Senior, College Freshman, College Sophomore, College Junior, College Senior, Community College Student, Transfer Student

Application Timeline

Important application dates

This scholarship offers more than one application cycle. Review each window carefully before applying.

2026–2027 Financial Aid Application Cycle

OpensOctober 1, 2025
DeadlineMarch 2, 2026

Eligibility

  • Be a California resident or meet the requirements for an eligible nonresident tuition exemption.
  • Attend a University of California campus, California State University campus, or qualifying California Community College bachelor’s degree program.
  • Be enrolled in an eligible undergraduate program or qualifying teaching credential program.
  • Meet the applicable annual income and asset ceilings.
  • Submit the FAFSA or California Dream Act Application by the applicable deadline.
  • Maintain satisfactory academic progress as determined by the institution.
  • Meet applicable California state financial aid eligibility requirements.

Requirements

  • Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid or California Dream Act Application.
  • Provide financial and household information required to determine eligibility.
  • Complete any verification documents requested by the institution or California Student Aid Commission.
  • Remain enrolled in an eligible program and maintain satisfactory academic progress.

How to Apply

  1. 1Complete the FAFSA or California Dream Act Application for the appropriate academic year.
  2. 2List the eligible California institution the student plans to attend.
  3. 3Submit any documents requested for financial aid verification.
  4. 4Monitor WebGrants 4 Students and the institution’s financial aid portal.
  5. 5Review the final award calculation after the institution reports enrollment and other financial aid.