MYTH BUSTERS

The State of California is in a fiscal crisis and there isn’t any grant money for college. 

College of the Redwoods has various financial aid programs that come from different funding sources.  Our two largest grant programs are the Pell Grant (Federal funds) and the Cal Grant (CA State funds). 

The Cal Grant is the only program that may be reduced.  While it is certainly a valuable program, only 500 CR students received one last year, while over 2500 students received the Federal Pell Grant. The maximum Federal Pell Grant award for 2009-2010 has actually increased by $600 more than last year! 

The fees have increased; I can’t afford to go to school.

If you are eligible for a BOG fee waiver (and almost 50% of CR students are!) your fees will be waived, so you will not need to pay any enrollment fees.  (Material and audit fees are not covered by the fee waiver).

How do I apply for these programs?

File the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).  It’s free and is the starting point to apply for all financial aid programs.  Don’t count yourself out because you think you won’t qualify or there isn’t money available – apply today at www.fafsa.ed.gov.