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Chafee

What is Chafee?

The California Chafee Grant Program, administered by the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC), provides up to $4,500 per year to eligible current or former foster youth to assist with college or career/technical school expenses. This is free money you do not need to pay it back.

Funds can be used for tuition, fees, books, supplies, and living expenses such as child care, transportation, or rent. Chafee Grants can be used at eligible public and private colleges and universities, technical schools, or career programs in California, as well as schools in other states.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the Chafee Grant, you must meet the following requirements established by CSAC and the U.S. Department of Education (DOE):

  • You were in foster care between the ages of 16 and 18 as a dependent or ward of the court.
  • You are under the age of 26 as of July 1 of the award year.
  • You demonstrate financial need, as determined by FAFSA or CADAA.
  • You are enrolled at least half-time in a program that is at least one academic year in length.
  • You maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP)

How Do I Apply?

To be considered for a Chafee Grant:

  1. Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at studentaid.gov/
    OR if you do not have a Social Security Number (SSN), submit the California Dream Act Application (CADAA) at dream.csac.ca.gov.
    (Note: A CADAA ID is required to submit the Chafee Grant Application.)
  2. Complete the Chafee Grant Application at csac.ca.gov.

What Happens After I Apply?

After you submit your FAFSA/CADAA and Chafee Grant application:

  • CSAC will review your application for eligibility.
  • The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) will attempt to verify your foster youth status.
    • If your foster status cannot be verified, you may be required to complete the Foster Care Eligibility Certification Form.
  • If selected, CSAC will notify you by email.
  • Your college will confirm your enrollment, financial aid status, and disburse your award through the Financial Aid Office.
  • Check your status anytime at WebGrants for Students.

Do I need to reapply each year?

 

You do not need to reapply for the Chafee Grant every year.

If you are awarded the grant, it may be renewed annually through your 26th birthday, as long as:

  • You continue to meet eligibility requirements
  • You submit a new FAFSA or CADAA each academic year
  • You maintain SAP and remain enrolled in an eligible program

Note: You may receive Chafee Grant funds for up to five years (consecutive or non-consecutive). This limit is enforced by CSAC.

Resources


Guardian Scholars Program (Chabot College)

Personalized support for current and former foster youth

Visit Guardian Scholars Program

Webgrants for Students

Monitor your Chafee status, award history, and notifications from CSAC

Go to Webgrants

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