Financial Aid Resources and FAQs

You should apply as soon after October 1st as possible, after you and your parents have completed your federal income tax returns.

The priority date for financial aid is March 2nd each year. The Cal Grant deadline is March 2nd; however, you may continue to apply for Federal Aid at Compton College through the end of the academic year provided you are still enrolled. If you plan to take classes in the Fall semester at any California college or university, always complete your FAFSA on or before March 2nd. March 2nd is the absolute deadline for DREAM Act Applications to be submitted for Cal Grant consideration.

No, you cannot receive aid at more than one college for the same enrollment period.  A consortium agreement can be used if units taken concurrently at Compton College and another college/university to combine the student's unit count. However, Compton College only accepts consortium agreements that list Compton College as the secondary institution, while the other college/university is listed as the primary (the school that disburses out aid).

It is necessary to provide your Social Security number on the FAFSA. If you do not yet have a number, you should contact your Social Security Administration office to obtain one. It is required before you can be considered for any Federal student aid program. The FAFSA will be returned unprocessed if the student's Social Security number is blank.

Almost all funds are available to students who attend college at least half time. Some institutions, however, give preference to full-time students. Some programs are available for less than half-time attendance.

If you use the FAFSA to apply for Federal Student Aid funds and provide false information, you are subject to fines and/or imprisonment under the U.S. Criminal Code. State and local laws may also apply in such cases.

If you fail to comply with a request for any forms or documentation from the Financial Aid Office, we will discontinue processing your application for aid.

You may apply for financial aid at the same time you apply for admission. Many colleges require that you be admitted before they offer aid. However, you must actually enroll in college before you receive any funds.

Yes. Your financial situation must be reassessed each year. However, after the first time you apply for financial aid, you will be sent a Renewal FAFSA that will ask you to answer some questions again and recheck the answers to others. Remember, always apply by March 2nd each year to ensure priority for various programs and funding that is available.

Yes. Your financial situation must be reassessed each year. However, after the first time you apply for financial aid, you will be sent a Renewal FAFSA that will ask you to answer some questions again and recheck the answers to others. Remember, always apply by March 2nd each year to ensure priority for various programs and funding that is available.