Financial Aid Basics | California State University Stanislaus

Financial Aid Basics | California State University Stanislaus
Financial Aid Basics
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Financial Aid Basics
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Contact Information
Contact Information
(209) 667-3336
Financial_Aid@csustan.edu
Mary Stuart Rogers, MSR 100
Division of Academic Affairs
How to Apply
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or Dream Act is used to apply for federal and state financial aid at Stanislaus State. You can apply electronically at the
FAFSA website
or at the
CA Dream Act website
. You must include Stanislaus State's Federal School Code on the FAFSA or Dream Act application,
001157
. The FAFSA or Dream Act applications are available in English and Spanish.
Financial Aid Basics
Welcome to Financial Aid Basics—your guide to understanding how financial aid works at Stanislaus State and what to expect as you begin your journey.
At Stan State, we’re committed to helping you invest in your future. Financial aid can make your education more affordable by helping cover expenses such as tuition, housing, meals, books, and everyday essentials.
Below, you’ll find clear answers to the most common questions Warriors ask when getting started.
Students apply for financial aid each year by completing either the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the California Dream Act Application (CADAA). These applications are used to determine eligibility for federal, state, and institutional grants, loans, and work-study programs. Be sure to complete your application by the state priority filing deadline to maximize your aid opportunities.
Grants Free funds that do not need to be repaid. These are usually awarded based on financial need.
Scholarships Free money awarded for academics, leadership, financial need, or other criteria. Some require applications; others are automatically considered.
Loans Borrowed funds that must be repaid with interest. Federal loans often offer lower interest rates and flexible repayment options.
Work-Study A part-time job program—usually on campus—that allows you to earn money to help cover educational expenses.
Eligibility is based on several factors, including:
Your FAFSA or CADAA information
Family income and financial need
Your enrollment level (full-time or part-time)
Your academic progress
Federal, state, and university deadlines
Aid must be renewed each year—be sure to apply by the state priority filing deadline.
The Cost of Attendance is the estimated total cost to attend Stan State for one academic year. It includes:
Tuition and fees
Housing and meals
Books and supplies
Transportation
Personal expenses
Your financial aid offer is based on the COA minus the financial resources available to you and your family.
Your net price is what you are expected to pay out of pocket after grants and scholarships are applied. Most Stan State students receive aid that lowers their overall cost. Use our Net Price Calculator to estimate your personalized cost.
Visit the
Cost of Attendance & Net Price page
for more information.
Deadlines vary, but applying as early as possible—and no later than the state priority filing deadline—is always recommended.
Common deadlines include:
FAFSA/CADAA priority deadline
State grant deadlines
University scholarship deadlines
Required form submission dates
Missing a deadline may reduce your eligibility for aid.
After your application is processed and any required documents are submitted, you will receive a financial aid offer outlining the types and amounts of aid you qualify for.
Financial aid typically disburses at the start of each semester. If the amount of aid exceeds your university charges, you may receive a refund to help with other educational expenses.
Not repaid: Grants and scholarships
Must be repaid: Loans (with interest)
Not repaid: Work-study earnings (you earn them through your job)
If you withdraw or drop below the required enrollment level, your aid may be adjusted.
If your family has a loss of income, medical expenses, or other significant changes, you may request a special circumstance review (Professional Judgment appeal).
You may need to provide documentation such as:
Job loss verification
Updated tax information
Medical bills
A review does not guarantee additional aid, but adjustments may be made based on your situation.
To continue receiving aid, you must meet Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) requirements:
Maintain the minimum required GPA
Complete enough attempted credits
Make progress toward completing your program
If you do not meet SAP, your aid may be affected, but you may submit an appeal.
Updated: March 24, 2026
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