As high school seniors across Los Angeles County prepare to graduate, state officials Tuesday urged families to check whether students qualify for scholarships worth up to $1,500 that may already be set aside in their names.
Approximately 68% of public high school students in L.A. County are eligible for the scholarships, with more than $465 million in financial aid available countywide, according to program officials.
The scholarships — administered through CalKIDS, the state’s child development savings program under the State Treasurer’s Office — can be used for tuition, books, supplies, computer equipment and certain housing costs at accredited colleges, universities, trade schools and vocational programs.
“These scholarships send a powerful message to families across our state: we believe in our young people, we are investing in their future, and we want every student to know that college or career training is within reach,” State Treasurer Fiona Ma said in a statement.
Program officials said they are working with the California Student Aid Commission to increase outreach to eligible students through the WebGrants 4 Students portal, which allows school counselors to identify qualifying students in grades 9 through 12.
“This innovative partnership is transforming how millions of California students access the resources that make college possible,” CSAC Executive Director Daisy Gonzales said. “Students can now claim their CalKIDS Account and applying for financial aid more seamlessly.”
Officials said students and families can check eligibility online using the student’s Statewide Student Identifier, or SSID, which can typically be found on report cards or transcripts.
The program said eligible public school students can receive scholarships worth up to $1,500, while children born in California on or after July 1, 2022, may qualify for scholarship accounts worth up to $175.
More information can be found at calkids.org/.