UC Davis FAFSA Advice?

Hi everyone, I'm interested in applying to UC Davis and want to make sure I don't miss out on any financial opportunities. Any FAFSA tips or advice specifically for UC Davis? Is there anything I should be aware of before applying for financial aid?

Hello! Applying for financial aid is an important step in the college application process, and it's great that you're being proactive. While the FAFSA process is similar for all colleges, here are some tips to keep in mind specifically for UC Davis:

1. Submit your FAFSA on time: The priority filing period for the University of California system, including UC Davis, is October 1 to March 2. Make sure to submit your FAFSA within this timeframe to maximize your financial aid opportunities.

2. Use the correct school code: When you're filling out the FAFSA, you will be asked to provide the Federal School Code for the colleges you wish to send your application to. For UC Davis, the code is 001313.

3. Apply for the UC Blue and Gold Opportunity Plan: If you're a California resident and your family income is below a certain threshold ($80,000 for 2022-2023, adjusted annually), you may be eligible for the Blue and Gold Opportunity Plan, which aims to cover systemwide tuition and fees with gift aid. To apply for this program, simply submit your FAFSA as you normally would.

4. Cal Grant Verification: If you're a California resident, applying for Cal Grants can be done through your FAFSA. However, you'll also need to ensure that your high school submits your verified Cal Grant GPA to the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) by the stated deadline (usually March 2). Check with your high school counselor to confirm this is done.

5. Additional UC Application for Financial Aid: UC Davis may require you to submit an additional financial aid application, which can be found in your MyUCDavis application portal once you've applied. Be sure to monitor your portal and email for any notifications about additional financial aid documents that may be required.

6. Estimate your financial aid package: To get an idea of what your financial aid package may look like at UC Davis, use their Net Price Calculator. This will help you understand how much your family might need to contribute to your education costs.

7. Scholarships: UC Davis offers several merit-based scholarships for incoming freshmen, so take the time to research and apply for any you're eligible for. Some may require additional application materials, such as essays or letters of recommendation.

By following these tips and staying organized throughout the process, you'll be in a good position to maximize your financial aid opportunities at UC Davis. Good luck!