How to Apply for Financial Aid
How does financial aid work for community college students? Often, it's as easy as filling out a free, online application for aid. Depending on your background and the kind of support you are seeking, you may find yourself needing to complete additional applications. But not to worry, we're here to guide you through the process so you can get the funds you need to pay for college.
San Diego Mesa College's School Code is 001275
Some applications for financial aid require that you provide our school code,
001275, to ensure that your application is sent to Mesa and you can receive the financial
aid you qualify for.
I am a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident
Apply for Financial Aid Through the FAFSA
If you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident applying for financial aid, the best
place to start is by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
You will need to fill out a new FAFSA for each year that you are enrolled at Mesa
to determine the financial aid you qualify for given your unique background and financial
status.
Need help filling out the application? Sign up for a free Cash for College webinar to get information and tips on applying for financial aid. View the upcoming workshop dates and register here to reserve your spot.
The FAFSA process has changed. FAFSA Simplification is the first significant update to the FAFSA process in over 40 years, encompassing major changes to the form, need analysis, data storage, and policies for Title IV schools.
Everyone should review the details and changes of FAFSA Simplification before applying for Financial Aid.
I am NOT a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident
Apply for Financial Aid Through the California Dream Act Application
If you are not a U.S. Citizen, you may still be eligible for financial aid through
the Dream Act Application. You will need to reapply for each year that you are enrolled
at Mesa to determine the financial aid you qualify for given your unique background
and financial status. See if you meet the AB540 Criteria to help pay for college.
Need help filling out the application? Attend a free Cash for College workshop to get information and tips on applying for financial aid. View the upcoming workshop dates and register here to reserve your spot.
After You Apply
Once you have applied by submitting a FAFSA or a Dream Act Application, follow these steps:
1. Waive Your Enrollment Fees with the California College Promise Grant (CCPG) Application
If you are a California resident, an eligible AB 540 student, or an eligible AB 1899 student and meet at least one of the following eligibility requirements, you can apply for the CCPG to have your enrollment fees waived.
CCPG Eligibility
- You or your family are receiving assistance from Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or General Assistance
- You qualify for a dependent's fee waiver through the California Department of Veterans' Affairs or the National Guard Adjutant General
- You are a dependent of a Congressional Medal of Honor winner, or are a recipient yourself.
- You are a dependent of a victim of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attack.
- You meet qualifying income and family size requirements.
To be consdiered, fill out the FAFSA or Dream Act Application to determine your eligibility. Alternatively, students can access the stand-alone appliction and submit it to the Financial Aid Office.
Access the CCPG Application
2. Receive Two Years of Free Tuition with the San Diego Promise
If you are a recent high school graduate, you may be eligible to apply for the San
Diego Promise, a two-year completion program that offers free tuition and specialized
support to qualifying students.
Learn more about the Promise Program at Mesa
SDP Eligibility
To be eligible for the San Diego Promise you must:
- Be a high school graduate (Diploma or GED)
- Be a California resident or AB 540 eligible
- Complete a 2020-2021 FAFSA or Dream Act application
- Must be enrolled full time (minimum of 12 units each semester) unless you are a DSPS student with academic accommodations
To apply, fill out the FAFSA or Dream Act Application to determine your eligibility for financial aid and submit your San Diego Promise Application.
Learn more and access the San Diego Promise Application
3. Apply for College Scholarships
Applying for scholarships can be a great way to lower the cost of college. Receive
financial support based on your demonstrated need, identity, accomplishments, and
more, and learn about Mesa's wide selection of scholarships for college students.
Explore scholarships and eligibility
Need a crash course on the different kinds of financial aid?
If you are unsure about the kinds of financial aid that are available to you, explore
our financial aid guide and learn the difference between loans, grants, work study,
and more!
Discover the different types of financial aid
