Federal assistance is typically based on financial need with no obligation for work or repayment. The following federal grants are available at CSU Channel Islands:
Federal Pell Grant
The Federal Pell Grant is available to students who are pursuing their first undergraduate degree. Students must meet the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) requirement and must demonstrate financial need to be eligible for this grant. The grant amount is based on the student’s EFC and number of units enrolled. Students pursuing a teaching credential may also be eligible for this grant and are required to be enrolled at least half-time (6 units) each semester.
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant is a grant offered to undergraduates who demonstrate exceptional financial need and are enrolled full-time. Funding for this grant is very limited; first priority is given to students who apply by the March 2 priority filing date.
Federal Work-Study
Federal Work-Study (FWS) is a federal need based program administered by the Financial Aid & Scholarships office. Funding is limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
The program provides part-time jobs for undergraduate students with financial need, allowing them to earn money to help pay education expenses. The program encourages community service work and work related to the student's course of study.
To be considered for FWS, you must meet the eligibility criteria:
- Must complete a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)
- Must demonstrate federal need according to the Financial Aid & Scholarships office policy
- Undergraduate students must be enrolled in 6 units or more
The amount of FWS indicated on your aid offer is the maximum amount you may earn during the academic year. FWS wages are not automatically applied to any University fees, nor are they disbursed in a lump sum. Instead, FWS wages are paid through monthly paychecks for hours worked.
Student Authorization of Financial Aid and Disbursement
Federal and State governments offer financial aid funding to those students who qualify. Disbursements of federal and state financial aid, (e.g. Title IV* funds and/or Cal Grants), are applied to a student's account for allowable institutional charges. Allowable charges are tuition, fees and contracted room and board. If other educational costs are charged to a student's account, they may be paid by financial aid if, the student submits a signed authorization to the Student Business Services Office located in Sage Hall. The authorization will remain in effect from the signature date through the entire period of enrollment at California State University, Channel Islands. The University credits a student's account with federal and state funds based on enrollment. Various types of state aid, (e.g. Cal Grant B Access), allow a student the right to opt out of having future state funds applied towards paying the student's institutional charges and to have those funds be delivered directly to the student, payments cannot be delivered to a third party. To opt out, students must contact Student Business Services.