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The Colleges Fee Waiver form is designed to help eligible students have their enrollment fees waived, making college more accessible. Specifically for California residents and certain documented non-residents, this application serves those who may also qualify for additional benefits, such as financial aid for books, supplies, and living expenses. If you think you may qualify for these benefits, complete the fee waiver form by clicking the button below.

Article Guide

The Colleges Fee Waiver form is a crucial tool for students seeking financial relief from enrollment fees at California Community Colleges. Designed for California residents, eligible AB 540 students, and certain victims of serious crimes, this form allows qualifying applicants to have their enrollment fees waived. The application requires individuals to indicate their eligibility status, which can include residency determinations and specific classifications based on personal circumstances. Particularly noteworthy is the implementation of Assembly Bill 1899, which expands access to fee waivers to victims of trafficking and domestic violence, allowing these individuals to pursue financial aid opportunities. Additionally, the form incorporates provisions for students in registered domestic partnerships, establishing guidelines for income reporting and household information. The application process includes both determining student dependency status and providing necessary financial documentation. As students navigate these requirements, completing a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the California Dream Application is strongly encouraged, as these applications may unlock further financial resources for books, supplies, and living expenses. Overall, the Colleges Fee Waiver form is essential in promoting educational access for those in need, enhancing the ability of students to pursue their academic goals without financial barriers.

California Community Colleges 2014-15 Board of Governors Fee Waiver Application

This is an application to have your ENROLLMENT FEES WAIVED. If you need money to help with books, supplies, food, rent, transportation and other costs, please complete a FREE APPLICATION FOR FEDERAL STUDENT AID (FAFSA) or the California Dream Application (for eligible AB 540 students) immediately. The FAFSA is available at www.fafsa.ed.gov and the Dream Application is available at http://www.csac.ca.gov/dream_act.asp. Contact the Financial Aid Office for more information.

IMPLEMENTATION OF Assembly Bill 1899: Victims of Trafficking, Domestic Violence and other Serious Crimes

AB 1899, chaptered in September of 2012, provides for a non-resident enrollment fee exemption for “Victims of trafficking, domestic violence and other serious crimes”. In addition, the legislation allows these students to apply for and, if eligible, receive financial aid from programs administered by public postsecondary institutions or the state of California. Finally, the legislation provides that enrollment fees shall be waived for these students who apply for and are eligible to receive Board of Governor enrollment fee waivers.

This FEE WAIVER application is for California residents, eligible AB 540 students, and eligible AB 1899 students, as determined by the Admissions or Registrar’s Office. If you have not had your California residency or eligibility status determined by the Admissions or the Registrar, please see one of those offices to obtain the valid determination. Fee waiver eligibility cannot be determined until your status has been verified.

Has the Admissions or Registrar's Office determined that you are a California resident? Yes  No

If no, has the Admissions or Registrar's Office determined that you are eligible for a non-resident tuition exemption as an AB 540

student? Yes  No

If no, has the Admissions or Registrar's Office determined that you are eligible for a non-resident tuition exemption granted as a result of your immigration status under Section 1101(a)(15)(T)(i) or (ii), or Section1101 (a)(15)(U)(i) or (ii), of Title 8 of the United States


Code?						 Yes  No
Name:					Student ID #
Last		First		Middle Initial
Email (if available):					Telephone Number:
Home Address:					Date of Birth:
	Street		City,State	Zip Code

IMPLEMENTATION OF THE CALIFORNIA DOMESTIC PARTNER RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES ACT

The California Domestic Partner Rights and Responsibilities Act extends rights, benefits, responsibilities and obligations to individuals in domestic partnerships registered with the California Secretary of State under Section 297 of the Family Code. If you are in a Registered Domestic Partnership (RDP), you will be treated as an Independent married student to determine eligibility for this Enrollment Fee Waiver and will need to provide income and household information for your domestic partner. If you are a dependent student and your parent is in a Registered Domestic Partnership, you will be treated the same as a student with married parents and income and household information will be required for the parent’s domestic partner.

Note: These provisions apply to state student financial aid ONLY, and not to federal student financial aid.

Are you or your parent in a Registered Domestic Partnership with the California Secretary of State under Section 297 of the Family Code? (Answer “Yes” if you or your parent are separated from a Registered Domestic Partner but have NOT FILED a Notice of

Termination of Domestic Partnership with the California Secretary of State’s Office.)

 Yes  No

If you answered “Yes” to the question above, treat the Registered Domestic Partner as a spouse. You are required to include your domestic partner’s income and household information or your parent’s domestic partner’s income and household information in Questions 4, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17.

Student Marital Status

 Single  Married  Divorced  Separated  Widowed  Registered Domestic Partnership

DEPENDENCY STATUS

The questions below will determine whether you are considered a Dependent student or Independent student for fee waiver eligibility and whether parental information is needed. If you answer “Yes” to ANY of the questions 1-10 below, you will be considered an INDEPENDENT student. If you answer “No” to all questions, you will be considered a Dependent student thereby reporting parental information and should continue with Question 11.

1.	Were you born before January 1, 1991?	 Yes		No
2.	As of today, are you married or in a Registered Domestic Partnership (RDP)?	(Answer "Yes" if you are separated but not divorced
	or have not filed a termination notice to dissolve partnership.	 Yes		No

3.Are you a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces or currently serving on active duty for purposes other than training?

Yes  No

4.Do you have children who will receive more than half of their support from you between July 1, 2014-June 30, 2015, or other dependents who live with you (other than your children or spouse/RDP) who receive more than half of their support from you, now

	and through June 30, 2015	 Yes	 No
5.	At any time since you turned age 13, were both your parents deceased, were you in foster care, or were you a dependent or ward
	of the court?	 Yes	 No
6.	Are you or were you an emancipated minor as determined by a court in your state of legal residence?	 Yes	 No
		 Yes	 No
7.	Are you or were you in legal guardianship as determined by a court in your state of legal residence?
		 Yes	 No
8.	At any time on or after July 1, 2013, did your high school or school district homeless liaison determine that you were an
	unaccompanied youth who was homeless	 Yes	 No

9.At any time on or after July 1, 2013, did the director of an emergency shelter or transitional housing program funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development determine that you were an unaccompanied youth who was homeless?

Yes  No

10.At any time on or after July 1, 2013, did the director of a runaway or homeless youth basic center or transitional living program determine that you were an unaccompanied youth who was homeless or were self-supporting and at risk of being homeless?

Yes  No

•If you answered "Yes" to any of the questions 1 - 10, you are considered an INDEPENDENT student for enrollment fee waiver purposes and must provide income and household information about yourself (and your spouse or RDP if applicable). Skip to Question #13.

•If you answered "No" to all questions 1 - 10, complete the following questions:

11.	If your parent(s) or his/her RDP filed or will file a 2013 U.S. Income Tax Return, were you, or will you be claimed on their tax return
	as an exemption by either or both of your parents?		Will Not File  Yes  No
12.	Do you live with one or both of your parent(s) and/or his/her RDP?		Yes  No

•If you answered "No" to questions 1 - 10 and "Yes" to either question 11 or 12, you must provide income and household information about your PARENT(S)/RDP. Please answer questions for a DEPENDENT student in the sections that follow.

•If you answered "No" or "Parent(s) will not file" to question 11, and "No" to question 12, you are a dependent student for all student aid except this enrollment fee waiver. You may answer questions as an INDEPENDENT student on the rest of this application, but please try to get your PARENT information and file a FAFSA so you may be considered for other student aid. You cannot get other student aid without your parent(s’) information.

13. Are you (the student ONLY) currently receiving monthly cash assistance for yourself or any dependents from:

TANF/CalWORKs?	 Yes	 No
SSI/SSP (Supplemental Security Income/State Supplemental Program)?	 Yes		No
General Assistance?	 Yes		No

14. If you are a dependent student, are your parent(s)/RDP receiving monthly cash assistance from TANF/CalWORKs or SSI/SSP as

a primary source of income?

 Yes  No

If you answered "Yes" to question 13 or 14 you are eligible for an ENROLLMENT FEE WAIVER. Sign the Certification at the end of this form. You are required to show current proof of benefits. Submit application and documentation to the financial aid office.

METHOD B ENROLLMENT FEE WAIVER

15.DEPENDENT STUDENT: How many persons are in your parent(s)/RDP household? (Include yourself, your parent(s)/RDP, and anyone who lives with your parent(s)/RDP and receives more than 50% of their support from your parents/RDP, now and through June 30, 2015.)

16.INDEPENDENT STUDENT: How many persons are in your household? (Include yourself, your spouse/RDP, and anyone who lives with you and receives more than 50% of their support from you, now and through June 30, 2015.)

17.2013 Income Information

(Dependent students should not include their income information for Q 17 a and b below.)

a.Adjusted Gross Income (If 2013 U.S. Income Tax Return was filed, enter the amount from Form 1040, line 37; 1040A, line 21; 1040EZ, line 4).

b.All other income (Include ALL money received in 2013 that is not included in line (a) above (such as disability, child support, military living allowance, Workman’s Compensation, untaxed pensions).

TOTAL Income for 2013 (Sum of a + b)

The Financial Aid Office will review your income and let you know if you qualify for an ENROLLMENT FEE WAIVER under Method B. Submit application and documentation to the financial aid office.

If you do not qualify using Method A or Method B, you should file a FAFSA (for U.S. citizens or eligible non-citizens) or the California Dream Application (for undocumented AB 540 students). The FAFSA is available at www.fafsa.ed.gov and the Dream Application is available at http://www.csac.ca.gov/dream_act.asp . Contact the Financial Aid Office for more information.

SPECIAL CLASSIFICATIONS ENROLLMENT FEE WAIVERS

18.	Do you have certification from the CA Department of Veterans Affairs that you are eligible for a dependent's fee waiver?
	Submit certification.	 Yes		No
19.	Do you have certification from the National Guard Adjutant General that you are eligible for a dependent's fee waiver?
	Submit certification.	 Yes	 No
20.	Are you eligible as a recipient of the Congressional Medal of Honor or as a child of a recipient?	 Yes	 No
	Submit documentation from the Department of Veterans Affairs.	 Yes	 No
21.	Are you eligible as a dependent of a victim of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attack?	 Yes	 No
	Submit documentation from the CA Victim Compensation and Government Claims Board.	 Yes	 No
22.	Are you eligible as a dependent of a deceased law enforcement/fire suppression personnel killed in the line of duty?
	Submit documentation from the public agency employer of record.	 Yes		No
		 Yes		No

•If you answered "Yes" to any of the questions from 18-22, you are eligible for an ENROLLMENT FEE WAIVER and perhaps other fee waivers or adjustments. Sign the Certification below. Submit application and documentation to the financial aid office. Contact the Financial Aid Office if you have questions.

CERTIFICATION FOR ALL APPLICANTS: READ THIS STATEMENT AND SIGN BELOW

I hereby swear or affirm, under penalty of perjury, that all information on this form is true and complete to the best of my knowledge. If asked by an authorized official, I agree to provide proof of this information, which may include a copy of my and my spouse/registered domestic partner and/or my parent's/registered domestic partner’s 2013 U.S. Income Tax Return(s). I also realize that any false statement or failure to give proof when asked may be cause for the denial, reduction, withdrawal, and/or repayment of my waiver. I authorize release of information regarding this application between the college, the college district, and the Chancellor's Office of the California Community Colleges.

I understand the following information (please check each box):

Federal and state financial aid programs are available to help with college costs (including enrollment fees, books & supplies, transportation and room and board expenses). By completing the FAFSA or the California Dream Application, additional financial assistance may be available in the form of Cal Grants, Pell and other grants, work study and other aid.

I may apply for and receive financial assistance if I am enrolled, either full time or part time, in an eligible program of study (certificate, associate degree or transfer).

Financial aid program information and application assistance is available in the college financial aid office.


	Applicant’s Signature	Date		Parent Signature (Dependent Students Only)	Date

CALIFORNIA INFORMATION PRIVACY ACT

State and federal laws protect an individual’s right to privacy regarding information pertaining to oneself. The California Information Practices Act of 1977 requires the following information be provided to financial aid applicants who are asked to supply information about themselves. The principal purpose for requesting information on this form is to determine your eligibility for financial aid. The Chancellor’s Office policy and the policy of the community college to which you are applying for aid authorize maintenance of this information. Failure to provide such information will delay and may even prevent your receipt of financial assistance. This form’s information may be transmitted to other state agencies and the federal government if required by law. Individuals have the right of access to records established from information furnished on this form as it pertains to them.

The officials responsible for maintaining the information contained on this form are the financial aid administrators at the institutions to which you are applying for financial aid. The SSN may be used to verify your identity under record keeping systems established prior to January 1, 1975. If your college requires you to provide an SSN and you have questions, you should ask the financial aid officer at your college for further information. The Chancellor’s Office and the California community colleges, in compliance with federal and state laws, do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, age, disability, medical condition, sexual orientation, domestic partnership or any other legally protected basis. Inquiries regarding these policies may be directed to the financial aid office of the college to which you are applying.

FOR OFFICE USE ONLY

 BOGFW-A

 BOGFW-B

 Special Classification

RDP

 Student is not

 TANF/CalWORKs



Veteran

 National Guard

Student

eligible

 GA

 BOGFW-C

Dependent

Parent

 SSI/SSP



Medal of Honor

 9/11 Dependent

 Dep. of deceased law enforcement/fire

personnel

Comments:

Certified by:

Date:

Board of Governors Fee Waiver Program

BOGFW-B

2014-2015 Income Standards*

Family Size	2013 Income

1	$17,235
2	$23,265
3	$29,295
4	$35,325
5	$41,355
6	$47,385
7	$53,415
8	$59,445
Each Additional Family
Member	$6,030

*These standards are based upon the federal poverty guidelines, as published each year by the US Department of Health and Human Services. Under Title 5 of the California Code of Regulations, the student or student’s family must have a total income in the prior year (in this case, 2013) that is equal to or less than 150% of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Poverty Guidelines based on family size.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services published the 2013 Poverty Guidelines in January 2013 (Fed er al Regist er , Vol . 7 8 , No. 1 6 , Jan u ar y 2 4 , 2 0 1 3 , p p . 5 1 8 2 - 5 1 8 3 ). https://federalregister.gov/a/2013-01422

These income standards are for the 2014-2015 academic year and are to be used to determine BOGFW-B eligibility EFFECTIVE July 1, 2014.

http://aspe.hhs.gov/poverty/12poverty.shtml

⇩ PDF

Fact Name	Description
Application Purpose	The Colleges Fee Waiver form allows students to apply for the waiver of enrollment fees.
Eligibility Criteria	Applicants must be California residents, eligible AB 540 students, or eligible students under AB 1899.
Governing Law	AB 1899, chaptered in 2012, provides the basis for the non-resident enrollment fee exemption.
Financial Aid Applications	Students should complete a FAFSA or California Dream Application to receive assistance for other expenses.
Dependent vs Independent	Eligibility classification as "Dependent" or "Independent" affects requirements for parental information.
Income Standards	Eligibility for the BOG Fee Waiver is based on income levels relative to the federal poverty guidelines.
Registered Domestic Partnership	Students in a Registered Domestic Partnership are treated as independent students for fee waiver purposes.
Submission Requirements	Application and supporting documents must be submitted to the financial aid office for review.
Privacy Protection	California laws protect the privacy of applicants regarding their personal information shared on the form.

Filling out the Colleges Fee Waiver form is an essential process for individuals seeking assistance with their enrollment fees. After completing the form, it will need to be submitted alongside any required documentation to the financial aid office. The office will review your application and determine your eligibility for a fee waiver based on the information provided.

Gather necessary documents, such as proof of California residency, income statements, and any relevant tax returns.
Begin by checking if the Admissions or Registrar's Office has classified you as a California resident.
Indicate your name, student ID number, email address (if available), telephone number, home address, and date of birth in the designated fields.
Answer the questions regarding your resident status and any applicable exemptions as an AB 540 student or under AB 1899.
Indicate your marital status and fill out questions related to your dependency status carefully.
If you are a dependent student, answer the income questions regarding your parent's income; if you are independent, fill out your own income information.
Complete questions about cash assistance if applicable, marking any assistance received from TANF/CalWORKs, SSI/SSP, or General Assistance.
Be sure to answer the questions relating to special classifications for fee waivers if they apply to you.
Read and sign the Certification section, affirming that all information is correct and true.
Submit your completed form along with any required documentation to the financial aid office.

What is the purpose of the Colleges Fee Waiver form?

The Colleges Fee Waiver form is designed to allow qualified students to have their enrollment fees waived at California Community Colleges. This form serves not only to reduce the financial burden of tuition but also to ensure that students who are in need can access further assistance for other related educational costs, such as books and supplies, by completing a FAFSA or the California Dream Application.

Who is eligible to apply for the fee waiver?

Eligibility for the Colleges Fee Waiver includes California residents, eligible AB 540 students, and those determined as eligible under Assembly Bill 1899. The Admissions or Registrar’s Office assesses this eligibility, and it is important for students to have their residency status verified prior to applying.

How do I determine my residency status?

Students should consult with the Admissions or Registrar's Office to confirm their California residency status. It is essential to have this determination completed before submitting the Colleges Fee Waiver form since eligibility cannot be evaluated until residency or eligibility status is established.

What if I am in a Registered Domestic Partnership?

If either you or your parent is in a Registered Domestic Partnership, the application will treat you as an independent married student for fee waiver purposes. You will be required to provide information about your partner’s income and household. Dependency status will influence how financial information is assessed, with distinct requirements for independent and dependent students.

What documentation is necessary to support my application?

Documentation required may include income verification, proof of benefits, and any relevant certifications related to specific classifications such as military service or eligibility as a victim of crime. Each applicant needs to ensure that all information submitted is truthful, as inaccuracies could lead to consequences such as denial or withdrawal of the fee waiver.

What happens if I do not qualify for the fee waiver?

If you do not meet the requirements for the Colleges Fee Waiver, you are encouraged to file a FAFSA or the California Dream Application. These applications are vital for determining eligibility for other financial aid, which may further assist with educational expenses.

How is the fee waiver application processed?

The Financial Aid Office reviews the submitted applications and documentation to determine eligibility. Processing times may vary, so applicants should maintain communication with the Financial Aid Office and submit documents promptly to avoid delays.

Where can I find more information regarding financial aid?

Not obtaining a residency determination first. Before filling out the fee waiver form, confirm your California residency status through the Admissions or Registrar's Office. Without this, your application cannot be properly assessed.
Failing to check eligibility under AB 1899 for victims of trafficking and other serious crimes. If applicable, individuals should ensure they reference their eligibility for this fee waiver.
Ignoring the distinction between dependent and independent status. Properly assess your situation to avoid incorrect status declaration, which affects the application process.
Leaving questions unanswered. Every question on the form must be addressed, even if the answer is "No." Incomplete applications can lead to delays or denials.
Forgetting to include household income information. Accurate income data for all relevant household members must be provided, especially if you are a dependent student.
Submitting without documentation. Always include necessary documents to support your application, especially for income and special classifications.
Not signing the certification statement. Failing to sign may invalidate your application, as it confirms your commitment to the accuracy of the provided information.
Overlooking the need for financial aid verification. If you plan to apply for additional financial aid, be aware that your application may require supporting evidence, particularly if parental information is involved.
Missing deadlines. Stay informed about application deadlines to ensure that your fee waiver is submitted on time and avoid potential fees.

The Colleges Fee Waiver form is a critical document for students seeking assistance with enrollment fees at California community colleges. Several other documents complement this application, providing necessary information to determine financial aid eligibility. Below is a list of related forms and documents that often accompany the Colleges Fee Waiver form.

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): This form is essential for U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens seeking federal financial aid. It assesses financial need and determines eligibility for various aid programs.
California Dream Act Application: Designed for undocumented students who qualify under AB 540, this application allows access to state financial aid, including grants and scholarships.
Income Tax Return: A copy of the applicant’s or their parent’s federal income tax return is necessary to verify income levels required for eligibility assessments.
Proof of Benefits: Documentation demonstrating current participation in benefit programs, such as TANF or SSI, helps establish qualification for fee waivers.
Verification of Dependent Status: This formical document confirms whether a student is dependent or independent for financial aid purposes, impacting eligibility for financial assistance.
Documentation of Domestic Partnership: If applicable, proof of a registered domestic partnership may be required to assess household income accurately for financial aid eligibility.
Veteran Status Certification: For students eligible for dependent fee waivers, certification from the CA Department of Veterans Affairs or similar entities must be submitted.
Special Circumstances Statement: It provides additional contextual information, such as changes in family income or circumstances that may affect eligibility for financial aid.

Gathering these documents alongside the Colleges Fee Waiver form can simplify the financial aid process and ensure that students receive the support they need for their education. For further guidance, students should contact their campus financial aid office.

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is an essential form similar to the Colleges Fee Waiver form. Both documents determine eligibility for financial assistance for educational purposes. The FAFSA assesses applicants' financial situations to qualify for federal aid and some state aid, including grants and work-study programs. It requires family income information, just like the fee waiver application. Students must complete the FAFSA to explore additional funding opportunities, enhancing their educational support network.

The California Dream Application is another document closely related to the Colleges Fee Waiver form. Specifically designed for undocumented students who qualify under Assembly Bill 540, this application also aims to secure financial aid for college attendance. Like the Colleges Fee Waiver, it helps determine eligibility for state-funded financial aid programs. Both applications underscore the importance of providing accurate personal and financial details to access potential educational funding.

The Pell Grant application process shares similarities with the Colleges Fee Waiver form. To obtain a Pell Grant, students must first complete the FAFSA, as it sets the groundwork for eligibility assessment. Both forms require detailed family financial information to evaluate the applicant’s need for assistance. Ultimately, both forms are crucial steps for students aspiring to alleviate their education costs.

Scholarship applications often mirror the Colleges Fee Waiver form in their need for personal and financial information to determine eligibility. Scholarships may require a separate application, but the underlying goal remains the same: providing students with financial support to continue their education. Applicants must showcase their academic performance and financial situation, similar to the fee waiver process.

The California State University (CSU) Fee Waiver program has attributes in common with the Colleges Fee Waiver form. Both programs aim to support students in reducing their educational expenses. They evaluate financial need based on students' income levels and household data. Through their respective applications, students can apply for various forms of financial aid to make higher education more accessible.

The Community College Promise Program (CCPP) is another initiative that parallels the Colleges Fee Waiver form. This program provides eligible students with tuition waivers in California community colleges. Like the fee waiver application, the CCPP examines students’ financial circumstances to offer assistance and ensure that higher education remains affordable. Both aim to encourage enrollment and completion rates among community college students.

The Veterans Affairs (VA) education benefits application shares the goal of easing financial burdens for students, just like the Colleges Fee Waiver form. The VA application assesses eligibility for various educational benefits for veterans and their dependents. Both forms require specific documentation and financial information, aiming to support those who have served in the military while pursuing higher education.

Lastly, the California Work-Study program application bears resemblance to the Colleges Fee Waiver form. This program helps students earn money to pay for college-related expenses while working part-time. Both applications require applicants to disclose financial information and assess their need for support. As students apply for work-study, they, in turn, enhance their financial resourcefulness while managing their academic commitments.

When filling out the Colleges Fee Waiver form, it is essential to approach the process thoughtfully. Here are six crucial do's and don'ts to keep in mind:

Do carefully read each section of the application. Understanding what is required will help you provide accurate information.
Do gather necessary documentation in advance. This includes proof of income, residency status, and any applicable certifications.
Do verify your residency or eligibility status. Ensure that this has been determined by the Admissions or Registrar’s Office before submitting your application.
Do follow instructions and answer all questions completely. Incomplete applications can lead to delays or a denial.
Don’t rush through the application. Taking your time can help prevent mistakes that might require correction later.
Don’t provide false information. Honesty is critical, as any misleading details could result in serious consequences for your eligibility.

Understanding the Colleges Fee Waiver form is crucial for those looking to alleviate some financial burden while pursuing education. However, several common misconceptions can create confusion. Below are four of these misconceptions explained for clarity:

Misconception 1: The fee waiver is available to everyone.

This is not true. The Colleges Fee Waiver is specifically designed for California residents, eligible AB 540 students, and those who meet the criteria under Assembly Bill 1899. It is essential to determine residency or eligibility status through the Admissions or Registrar’s Office before applying.

Misconception 2: Applying for a fee waiver means you cannot receive other financial aid.

This misconception can deter students from applying. In reality, those who qualify for the fee waiver may still access other forms of financial assistance, such as federal aid through FAFSA or California Dream Application, which can further support educational expenses.

Misconception 3: The fee waiver covers all college-related expenses.

While the fee waiver addresses enrollment fees, it does not cover all costs associated with college. Students are encouraged to seek additional financial assistance for books, supplies, and living expenses, which can be covered under different financial aid programs.

Misconception 4: Only low-income students qualify for the fee waiver.

While income does play a significant role in eligibility, it is not the only factor considered. Various criteria, such as residency and special classifications, must also be met. This means that qualifying for the fee waiver encompasses more than just income level consideration alone.

Being informed about these misconceptions can empower students to make better financial decisions regarding their education. By understanding eligibility and the scope of support available, students can navigate their college financing more effectively.

DEPENDENT STUDENT:

INDEPENDENT STUDENT:

PARENT(S)/ RDP

STUDENT (& SPOUSE'S/

INCOME ONLY

RDP) INCOME

When filling out the Colleges Fee Waiver form, keep these key points in mind:

Eligibility Requirements: You must check your residency status with the Admissions or Registrar's Office. Only verified residents or eligible students can apply.
Financial Aid Applications: Complete a FREE APPLICATION FOR FEDERAL STUDENT AID (FAFSA) or the California Dream Application to cover additional costs such as books and supplies.
Dependency Status Matters: Your answers on the dependency questions will determine if you’re considered an independent or dependent student, influencing what information you must provide.
Special Classifications: If you fall under certain criteria, such as being a victim of domestic violence or a dependent of military personnel, you may qualify for additional fee waivers.
Sign and Submit: Ensure you sign the application to certify that all information is accurate. Submit your application along with any required documentation to the financial aid office.