Student-Parent Resources

Student-parents are eligible to receive priority registration. Please click HERE to complete the form if you are parent of a child(ren) under the age of 18 and you provide 50% or more of the support. Be sure to schedule an appointment with your academic advisor for priority registration dates, matriculation requirements and class schedule

Many student-parents are eligible for the EOPS/CARE program and/or CalWORKS. You are encouraged to learn about these programs to see if you qualify for additional support services, resources, etc. to help you succeed. 

The Federal Pell Grant provides financial aid to eligible students attending college to help cover tuition and other educational expenses. This is a grant, so it does not need to be repaid, making it a valuable resource for those who qualify based on financial need. To apply, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) found below and check with the Financial Aid office for additional details.

Colleges use the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form to determine how much financial aid students are eligible to receive, which could include grants, scholarships, work-study funds, and loans. Any student, regardless of income, who wants to be considered for federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs can fill out a FAFSA. Students must apply for financial aid every year and submit any required documents to the financial aid office.

The California Dream Act Application (CADAA) allows undocumented students and other eligible non-citizens to apply for state and institutional financial aid, including grants, scholarships, and fee waivers, which do not need to be repaid, to help cover college costs, such as tuition and other educational expenses. To apply, complete the CADAA online, and be sure to submit any required documents to the Financial Aid office.

This program provides money that does not need to be paid back to eligible college students with financial need. Foster youth in care after age 13 or students with dependents can get up to an additional $6,000 per year (on top of the maximum benefit) for non-tuition costs like rent and books.

To qualify for the student parent supplemental award, you must have dependent children under 18 years of age for whom you provide more than half of their financial support during the academic year. You must complete the FAFSA or CADAA to be considered for this grant, and complete a GPA verification form if your school has not already done so automatically.

The California Chafee Grant for Foster Youth provides financial support for current and former foster youth under the age of 26, helping them pursue their educational goals. This grant offers up to $5,000 per year for up to five years to help cover tuition, living expenses, and other college-related costs. To qualify, you must demonstrate financial need and meet certain eligibility criteria. You must complete the FAFSA or CADAA to be considered for this grant. To learn more about eligibility and apply, visit the Chafee Grant Application website below.

Cost of Attendance (COA) Adjustments allow you to increase your financial aid package to cover essential expenses beyond tuition, including rent, utilities, health care, child care, specialized books and supplies, relocation expenses, and transportation. By adjusting your COA, you may qualify for additional grants, federal student loans, work-study opportunities, or scholarships to help cover your costs. To request an adjustment, reach out to the Financial Aid office, which may ask you to provide documentation of your expenses.

The Dependent Care Allowance can increase the amount of financial aid for which you’re eligible by including dependent care expenses, such as child care, in your cost of attendance (COA) budget, making it easier to balance family responsibilities with your studies. To qualify, you must be enrolled in college, have a dependent, and complete the FAFSA and any other requested financial aid forms. The allowance covers dependent care costs while you attend classes, study, do field work or internships, commute, and more. Contact the Financial Aid office to learn more about this.

The Federal Work-Study Program provides part-time employment opportunities for students while they are enrolled in school. The program is available to both full-time and part-time students, allowing them to earn money to help cover education and living expenses. Work-study jobs may include on-campus roles, positions with nonprofit or public agencies, and even partnerships with for-profit employers. To learn more and determine your eligibility, contact the Financial Aid office. You must complete the FAFSA to be considered for this program.

The CalFresh Program provides monthly food benefits to help low-income students and households buy food for themselves and their families. CalFresh benefits are issued through an Electronic Benefits Transfer Card, which can be used at grocery stores and participating farmers markets. Eligibility is based on income and is open to students and children who are U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens. To help determine whether you are eligible, use this website.

The CalWORKs Program provides monthly cash assistance to low-income families with at least one child in the home to help cover essential needs such as rent, housing, food, clothing, medical payments, and utilities. CalWORKs benefits are issued to support basic household stability and may include additional supportive services like child care assistance and housing support. Eligibility is based on income, age, and citizenship. To apply for benefits, go to this website.

The California Special Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program supports pregnant individuals, new parents, and young children (birth through age four) in staying healthy and meeting their nutritional needs. WIC provides monthly cash benefits to purchase healthy foods, along with access to nutrition education, breastfeeding/chestfeeding support, and referrals to additional family resources. This program aims to ensure that families have the resources they need for a healthy start. To learn more about eligibility and apply, visit the WIC website or contact a local WIC office.

Visit the Basic Needs Center for support with essential resources like food assistance, emergency housing, and other supportive services. Every California public college has a Basic Needs Center to help you access resources you need to thrive. Stop by or contact the Basic Needs Center to learn more about available assistance.

Medi-Cal offers free or low-cost health care to low-income individuals and families, ensuring access to essential medical services. Medi-Cal can help cover doctor visits, hospital care, vaccinations, pregnancy-related services, medications, and more. To learn more about eligibility and apply, visit the Medi-Cal website or visit your local Department of Health Care Services.

The Covered California program provides affordable health insurance options to individuals and families, ensuring access to essential health care services. Additionally, it offers financial assistance to lower the cost of health insurance, with some plans available for less than $10 per month. This program can help cover expenses for doctor visits, hospital care, medications, preventive services, and more. To learn more about eligibility and apply, visit the Covered California website, call 800-300-1506, or contact a certified enroller or your local Department of Health Care Services.

If you work and have a low to moderate income, you may qualify for the Federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). This credit provides a refund or reduces the amount of federal tax you owe. If eligible, the EITC can help put hundreds or even thousands of dollars back in your pocket, helping to support your household expenses. The value is up to $4,328 with one child and up to $8,046 with three or more children. To claim this credit, you must file your federal tax return and meet specific income and eligibility requirements. To learn more, visit the IRS website here.

If you work and have a low to moderate income, you may qualify for up to $3,644 with the California Earned Income Tax Credit (CalEITC). This credit provides you with a refund or reduces the amount of state tax you owe, putting money back into your pocket to help with essential household expenses. If you are eligible for CalEITC, and have a child under the age of six, you may also qualify for the Young Child Tax Credit (YCTC), which can add even more to your refund. To claim these credits, you must file your California state tax return and meet certain income requirements. To learn more, visit the California Franchise Tax Board website here.

The Additional Child Tax Credit (CTC) allows you to increase your tax refund by claiming up to $1,700 per qualifying child. For low-income families, this credit can provide a refundable amount to help support essential household expenses. To qualify, make sure to include each child’s information when filing your federal tax return. To learn more, visit the IRS website here.

If you qualify for the CalEITC and have a child under the age of six, you may also be eligible for the Young Child Tax Credit (YCTC), which can provide up to $1,154 as a refundable tax credit. This credit helps families offset the costs of raising young children by either offering a larger tax refund or a reduced tax bill. To estimate your eligibility and potential refund, use this calculator and see how much the YCTC could benefit your family. To learn more, visit the California Franchise Tax Board website here.

The Foster Youth Tax Credit (FYTC) offers up to $1,154 as a refundable tax credit during tax season for current and former foster youth. To qualify, you must have been in foster care at the age of 13 and currently be between the ages of 18 and 25. This credit provides extra financial support to help with essential household expenses. You may also file up to three past year tax returns if you qualify and have not claimed this credit. To claim the FYTC, you must file your California state tax return and include documentation of your eligibility. To learn more, visit the California Franchise Tax Board website here.

The Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit helps reduce a working parent’s taxable income if they paid for child care for children under age 13 or care for a dependent while working, attending school full-time, or actively looking for work. This credit can ease the financial burden of caregiving, making it more affordable to balance family and career or education needs. To claim this credit, be sure to include all qualifying expenses when filing your federal tax return. To learn more, visit the IRS website here.

The American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC) provides up to $1,000 as a refundable cash credit when you file your taxes. This credit can help get you money back for school expenses, including tuition, fees, books, and supplies needed for your studies. To claim AOTC, include your qualifying education expenses on your federal tax return. To learn more, visit the IRS website here.

The Lifetime Learning Credit (LLC) allows you to reduce your taxable income by up to $2,000 for qualifying education expenses. This credit can help offset the costs of tuition, enrollment fees, and other school expenses, making education more affordable. To claim the LLC, include your qualifying expenses when filing your federal tax return. To learn more, visit the IRS website here.

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program provides free tax filing services to individuals and families who meet certain income requirements. VITA can help you file your taxes accurately and ensure you receive any credits or refunds you’re eligible for, including education and child tax credits. Certified volunteers offer this service at community locations, making it accessible and convenient. Use this website to locate the VITA program site nearest you. To learn more, visit the IRS website here.

There are free online self-filing programs, like MyFreeTaxes.org, which provides a secure and accessible platform for you to file your taxes online at no cost. This service, powered by the United Way, helps you maximize your refunds and claim eligible credits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit (CTC). To qualify, you must meet certain income requirements and have access to a computer or mobile device. To learn more or begin filing your taxes for free, visit the MyFreeTaxes.org website or contact their support team for assistance.

The California Child Care Resource & Referral Network helps families find local child care providers throughout California. This service connects families with licensed providers, offering guidance on selecting safe and quality child care that meets each family's specific needs. To get started, visit the network’s website.

Head Start and Early Head Start provide free child care and early childhood education for children from birth to age five, supporting low-income families. These programs, funded by both federal and state sources, offer comprehensive services, including early learning, health screenings, and family support resources to ensure children are ready to succeed in school. Families can also access additional support services tailored to their needs. To see if you qualify and to apply, visit the Head Start website or contact a local Head Start provider.

The CalWORKs Child Care program helps low-income families access and afford child care so parents can work, attend school, or participate in training. CalWorks provides financial assistance for child care services, covering children from birth through age 12. This support ensures that parents can pursue employment or education while their children receive quality care. To learn more about eligibility and apply, visit the CalWORKs Child Care website.

Local child care programs provide financial assistance for child care to support families with children from birth to age 12. These state and federal programs offer a range of early learning and after-school services, including care for babies, toddlers, preschool-aged children, and children in kindergarten through sixth grade. To find available child care programs near you, use the provider search. To learn about eligibility, you can visit this website.

The California State Preschool Program (CSPP) offers free or low-cost preschool for three- and four- year-old children from income-eligible families who meet certain requirements. Part-day and full-day options are available and include meals and developmental screenings for children. This state program is administered through local educational agencies, colleges, nonprofits, and other licensed providers. To find a CSPP program near you, contact your local school district or educational agency.

The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) program provides job training, career coaching, and employment support services to help individuals gain the skills needed for quality employment. WIOA offers resources such as job search assistance, resume building, educational opportunities, and job placement services. This program is available through American Job Centers, which are located nationwide. To find your local center and learn about available services, visit this website.

The Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) program provides monthly financial assistance to help low-income individuals and families pay for housing. Voucher amounts are based on household income and local rental costs, allowing recipients to secure safe and affordable housing. Vouchers can be used for various housing options, including current residences, provided they meet the safety and health standards and the landlord participates in the program. To find the nearest Public Housing Agency and learn more, visit this website.

The CalWORKs Homeless Assistance program provides financial support for essential needs to low-income families, including food, rent, and other basic expenses. It also offers assistance to prevent eviction or secure temporary housing. This program can help cover costs such as security deposits, last month’s rent, up to two months of past-due rent to avoid eviction, and up to 16 days of temporary housing expenses (up to $145 per day for hotel or motel stays). To learn more about eligibility and apply, visit the CalWORKs website or contact your local Department of Social Services office.

2-1-1 is a free, confidential service that connects individuals and families to essential resources within their community. Whether you need help with food, mental health, health care, housing, transportation, utility assistance, legal aid, job training, after-school programs, disaster relief, or other services, 2-1-1 can guide you to the right support. You can dial 2-1-1 directly and explain the type of assistance you are seeking or visit the 2-1-1 website to search for resources online.

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps low-income households manage their energy costs by providing a one-time payment to assist with heating or cooling bills. In addition, LIHEAP offers in-home weatherization services to improve energy efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance the health and safety of your home. To learn more about eligibility and to apply, visit the LIHEAP website.

The Supplemental Security Income/State Supplementary Payment (SSI/SSP) provides monthly financial assistance to low-income individuals who are blind, disabled, or 65 years of age or older. This program allows most students to work without their SSI benefit decreasing. This is known as the Student Earned Income Exclusion (SEIE), which lets students keep the first $2,220 in earnings each month without affecting the countable earned income calculation. But, there is an annual cap of $8,950, so if you earn more than this in any given year, the income starts counting towards the earned income calculation again. To learn more about eligibility and apply, you can visit the Social Security Administration (SSA) website, visit your local SSA office, or call 1-800-772-1213.