How do I find California scholarships for college students?

I'm starting to look into financial aid options for when I attend college, and I'm particularly interested in scholarships available in California. Does anyone have tips or resources on where to find these?

Firstly, kudos to you for planning ahead! There are several ways to find scholarships in California, and there are plenty of resources available.

One starting place is the California State Aid Commission. This commission oversees the Cal Grants program, which awards up to $15,400 per year to eligible students attending a qualifying California institution. Application for Cal Grants is automatic when you submit your FAFSA or California Dream Act application and your verified GPA.

You'll also want to explore what the colleges you're applying to offer. Many California institutions have merit-based and need-based scholarships. Keep in mind that deadlines and requirements vary from school to school, so it's vital to research each one.

Additionally, check out Appily, a college and scholarship application platform that includes a vast database of scholarships. You can filter by location, so you could search for California-specific scholarships.

California community foundations are another valuable resource. They offer numerous local scholarships with an array of eligibility criteria. For instance, the San Diego Foundation and the Sacramento Regional Community Foundation are known for awarding substantial scholarships each year.

Lastly, professional and industry associations in California often provide scholarships for students pursuing a career in the field. For example, the California Association of Realtors has scholarships for students pursuing a career in real estate.

Remember that scholarships often have early deadlines - some even a year before college starts. Therefore, keeping organized, tracking these dates, and starting your applications early can be pivotal in securing financial aid. Good luck!