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MANAGEMENT
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MANAGEMENT
Financial Aid

2025-26 Financial Aid Applications

Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a gateway to various financial aid options, including federal, state, and institutional support. The FAFSA is free to complete. Even if you believe you might not qualify for need-based assistance, it’s advisable to apply, as this is the only way to be considered for all available financial aid resources. Submitting a California Dream Act Application for non-citizen resident students can open doors to state and institutional financial aid opportunities. Don't overlook the possibility of receiving financial support—apply today and unlock the potential for your future!

To assist our students, we have provided a timeline for the 2025-26 Financial Aid year below. The Financial Aid & Scholarships Office will continue to update this page and communicate with students via email and text as new information becomes available.

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  • October | Create your FSA ID and apply for Scholarships
    • Scholarships are a financial aid resource available for all students to apply.
    • CSUSM Scholarship Opens - One application for the various scholarship opportunities administered by CSUSM.
    • Whether you’re a student or contributor, you must create your account to apply for, receive, and manage your federal student aid. Create Your FSA ID
  • December | Complete your FAFSA or CADAA
  • February | Deadline for CSUSM Scholarships
    • Apply for Scholarships - Submit the CSUSM Scholarship application by February 1 to be considered for a variety of scholarships available to CSUSM students.
    • Review the Scholarships website for additional scholarship opportunities.
  • March 2 - May 30 | Submit Intent to Enroll
    • Your next move is to submit your Intent to Enroll to notify the CSUSM you plan to attend and that you will accept the admission offer and enroll.
    • If you have applied for financial aid, be sure to view and accept, or decline, your award offer. Register for Direct Deposit in your MyCSUSM portal to make sure refunds are sent to you quickly.
  • July | Course Drop Protection Applied & Look for your 'Good to Go' email
    • Course Drop Protection - Once you have a completed financial aid application on file, Course Drop Protection will be placed on your account. This hold protects your classes from being dropped in anticipation of your financial aid award covering your tuition and fees. Log-in to MyCSUSM to confirm your Course Drop Protection Hold has been placed on your account.
    • The Good to Go email provides a comprehensive summary of your tuition, fees, and financial aid, detailing your anticipated refund or outstanding balance after the application of financial aid. This plan is designed to enhance your understanding of how your financial aid can be utilized effectively.
  • August | Awards Disbursed
    • Financial Aid Awards are Paid - Financial Aid will be disbursed to students who fulfill all eligibility requirements and have completed any outstanding "to-do" items or holds. Aid disbursement is scheduled for the week prior to the start of classes. 
      • Remaining funds will be issued to students via direct deposit; students are required to enroll in direct deposit to receive their funds electronically; otherwise, a paper check will be mailed.
      • An email notification will be sent once your aid has been applied to your student account balance.
  • September | Enrollment Census & Grant Recalculation
    • Your financial aid award summary will initially display your full-time award amount. This amount will be prorated (adjusted) based on your enrollment status at the time of the census.
    • For example, if you are enrolled full-time (12 units) at the time of disbursement but subsequently drop to half-time status by the census date, your aid will be prorated accordingly to reflect half-time funding. For more info refer to the Enrollment & Recalculation of Aid page.

Resources

Federal Student Aid: What is the FAFSA Simplification Act? | Federal Student Aid