General Application Process
Step 1: Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
Submit your FAFSA to the federal processor. (The Cal State L.A. federal school code is 001140). There are two ways to submit the FAFSA.
The Paper FAFSA is available in high school guidance offices, local libraries and financial aid offices of all local community colleges and universities. Because they are readily available, the Center for Student Financial Aid does not mail the FAFSA.
You may also submit your financial aid application on line using FAFSA on the Web.
- Note that all California residents filing applications on or before the March 2 deadline should apply for the Cal Grant programs.
- California residents may apply for Cal Grant A or B by completing a GPA Verification Form. This form may be picked up in the Center for Student Financial Aid Office, and submitted to the Registrar for completion.
The GPA Verification Form must be mailed to the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) by March 2, 2012 for the 2012-2013 academic year.
Visit www.csac.ca.gov for more information and to print the GPA Verification form.
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Step 2: Document Request
AFTER we receive your application information from the central processor, the Center for Student Financial Aid may send you a request for additional documents.
- Update your address with the University to ensure that you will receive important mailings.
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Step 3: Document Submission
You should promptly submit all documents requested by the Center for Student Financial Aid. You may mail or submit them in person during office hours.
Important Tips:
- All documents must be complete, legible, and accurate, with appropriate signatures, if needed.
- List clearly your name and social security number on each form.
- Keep a copy of all documents submitted, for your records.


