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There has been commendable effort by the Community Colleges in California during this Financial Aid Awareness Month to educate students that they can afford college and they must pursue their higher education dream.

April is the month that is chosen to spread Financial Aid Awareness among students who graduate. They are made aware of the fact that they can choose to enroll in any of the 112 Community College campuses around California and benefit from the financial aid on offer throughout the year.

Millions of dollars are left untapped as many students assume that they are not eligible for financial aid. Many of them do not even apply for aid. California economy, during 2009-10 would have benefited from at least $500 million dollars if only students would have realized they are eligible for the Pell Grant and had applied for the same, says a recent study report by the Institute for College Access & Success. 

Students can pay for their entire college costs including fees, textbooks, food, housing, supplies and transportation by utilizing these grants worth $5350. There will be a further increase in the Pell Grant amount by the year 2019 according to the recent law signed by President Obama.

Community Colleges in California are taking all efforts to educate students on maximizing financial aid by opting for full-time courses. According to data, full time students are more likely to complete their course and also have easier access to financial aid.

A recent study conducted by MPR Associates Inc shows that it is easier for students who receive Pell Grants to transfer and to earn a degree. Jack Scott, the chancellor of California Community Colleges said in an interview on radio that more number of students must opt for full time courses in order to transfer with ease and also complete their degree.

In California, awareness among students regarding financial aid for Community Colleges is being promoted through community college fairs and financial aid workshops on campuses. These events educate students on types of financial grants and aids available. They are also guided on applying for State, Federal and community college aid programs by copleting FAFSA or Free Application for Federal Student Aid.

Currently at least nine hundred thousand students in California community colleges enjoy financial aid amounting to $1.6 billion every year. Students at community colleges are offered financial aid in the form of scholarships, grants, fee waivers, loans and work study programs throughout the year helping them pay for their fees, supplies, books and living expenses.

“I Can Afford College” campaign as this California campaign is called is state sponsored and helps spread awareness among students and families from low income segment that they can opt for financial aid to help with education related costs such as fees, supplies and books at any of the 112 community colleges in the state.

Government can only offer a variety of financial aid programs and grants. It is up to the students to reach out for such aid and be motivated enough to complete their degree.