Every year, billions of dollars in Pell Grants, California Grants, and scholarships go unclaimed. Many students miss out simply because they don’t apply, get stuck or assume they’re ineligible. Don’t let that be you!

Here at Skyline, our highest-earning financial aid recipients receive $20,000 in financial aid. For an application that can take as little as 15-30 minutes to complete, it is definitely worth your time to apply!

Take 5 minutes to learn about these very important topics:

three students receive scholarships at an award ceremony

Why You Should Apply

  1. Financial aid is NOT just for low-income students. Many students qualify for grants and scholarships, regardless of family income.
  2. When you apply for FA, it’s the only way to claim back some of the taxes you and your loved ones have paid, in forms of grants, scholarships, or subsidies for learning communities. Go get that money back and make the most out of college!
  3. Grants = FREE MONEY. Pell Grant, Cal Grant, and Student Success Completion Grant provide funds you never have to pay back because they are funds that you’ve already paid INTO.
  4. Financial aid covers MORE than tuition. It helps pay for any cost of attendance:  books, supplies, housing, food, transportation, and even childcare, It also gives you exclusive access to supportive learning communities such as EOPS, TRIO, and Promise. Financial aid can also be saved to be used for a future term!
  5. You don’t need to be a full-time student. Part-time students can still receive aid!
  6. Applying makes you eligible for additional scholarships. Many require a FAFSA or CADAA on file.
  7. Financial aid can help you focus on school. Less financial stress = more time to succeed academically and professionally.

Common Myths & The Truth

  1. "My grades aren’t good enough." False! Financial aid is not just for straight-A students. Even if you don’t have great grades, you are eligible for FA and scholarships. Plus, there’s an appeal process if you’ve had academic challenges.
  2. "My parents make too much money." Many scholarships and grants aren’t income-based—apply to see what you qualify for. You may be surprised!
  3. "I have savings and a job, so I don’t need aid." Even if you have money saved, grants and scholarships provide extra support for unexpected expenses.
  4. "My parents didn’t file taxes, so I can’t apply." False! You can still complete the FAFSA or CADAA with alternative documentation.

Key Application Facts

  1. One application = multiple grants = multiple ways to make money. FAFSA/CADAA automatically checks your eligibility for Pell Grant, Cal Grant, and more.
  2. You must apply for financial aid every academic year. Don't forget to re-apply annually! Try to start your application in December and complete before March. Even if you miss the priority deadline, it’s still worth completing your application ASAP.
  3. Deadlines matter! You can keep ahead of the deadlines by checking Skyline College's website or the official FAFSA/CADAA websites. Apply early to receive the most aid possible.
  4. Even if you miss the deadline, apply anyway! Late applicants may still qualify for grants and scholarships.
  5. Disbursement ≠ instant cash. Your aid money is sent to BankMobile or your school’s refund system—set it up in advance to avoid delays in receiving your financial aid.

Maximizing Your Aid

  1. Financial aid can be adjusted! If you or your parents income has changed significantly since 2023 (for the 2025-26 aid year), or you have special / difficult circumstances, ask about an appeal.
  2. You can qualify for multiple grants. Many students receive both Pell and Cal Grant!
  3. Federal Work-Study = a paid job on campus. It’s a great way to earn money while staying connected to your school community.
  4. Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) matters. Maintain a 2.0 GPA and complete 67% of your classes to stay eligible. Withdrawals count as what? Come find out by asking a financial aid staff or do a internet search.
  5. Have questions? Don’t wait — search online for answers or visit the Financial Aid Office to ask for help! Many answers are just one Google search away, and our office is here to help if you're stuck.