Financial Aid Disbursement Process

All financial aid funds are disbursed on scheduled dates each term. As long as students are enrolled in an eligible program and their financial aid file is complete, students will receive two disbursements of Federal Grant aid each semester, based on their enrollment level and classes actively in session. If students are enrolled in a late start class, it will be paid when their attendance begins. Federal grant aid includes Pell Grant and Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant. Federal Direct Loans are also disbursed in two payments based on the approved loan period. Cal Grant and Full-Time Incentive Grant funds will be disbursed at the beginning of the semester.

All disbursed financial aid such as grants, federal student loans and scholarships will be first applied towards current institutional fees owed to either Cañada College, College of San Mateo or Skyline College such as enrollment fees, health fees and non-resident tuition. Once all institutional fees are paid, the remaining eligible balance will be disbursed to the student. Get more information on disbursement options.

Late Start Classes:

Students enrolled in late start classes may initially receive less funds than their enrolled units but will receive additional disbursements as the late start class begins. Direct Loans will not be disbursed until the student is enrolled and attending at least six units of coursework required for their program of study.

2022-2023 Disbursement Schedule:

Fund Fall 2022 Spring 2023
Scholarships August 4, 2022 January 6, 2023
Pell Grant and SEOG August 12, 2022 
September 9, 2022
January 12, 2023
February 10, 2023
Cal Grant and Full-Time Incentive Grant September 9, 2022 February 10, 2023

Direct Loans* - Full Year Loan Period 

August 12, 2022 January 12, 2023
Direct Loan* - One Semester Loan Period Fall Only Loan:
August 12, 2022
October 21, 2022
Spring Only Loan:
January 12, 2023
March 24, 2023

 *Direct Loan Note: All first-time borrowers will be subject to a 30-day delay on their first loan disbursement. The 30-day period begins on the first day of the term, not of the loan application or approval date. 

2022-2023 Loan Application Deadlines:

  • Full-Year Fall 2022 & Spring 2023 semesters: Last Day to Submit: April 7, 2023
  • Fall 2022 only: Last Day to Submit: November 11, 2022
  • Spring 2023 only: Last Day to Submit: April 7, 2023
  • Summer 2023 only: Last Day to Submit: June 22, 2023

Note: To be considered for a full year loan in the spring term, you must have completed 6 or more degree–applicable units in the fall that apply to your program and be in good student academic progress (SAP) standing. Effective Fall 2021- all loan requests will require a copy of your social security card along with a current valid government issued ID along with the completed form. Must submit a Comprehensive Student Educational Plan (SEP) with your submission.

Get more information regarding Loan Forgiveness here.