How To Apply

Need assistance with your FAFSA or California Dream Act Application?

Are you seeking guidance with your FAFSA or California Dream Act Application? Look no further! Our dedicated Financial Aid team is here to provide personalized assistance to ensure you navigate the process smoothly.

Visit our Financial Aid Computer Lab for one-on-one support from our knowledgeable staff. Whether you're a seasoned applicant or new to the process, we're here to help you every step of the way.

Can't make it in person? No problem! Join one of our convenient weekly Zoom sessions where you can get your questions answered and receive guidance from the comfort of your own space. Zoom links and hours are provided for your convenience.  Zoom links and hours.

Ventura College School Codes:

• Federal (FAFSA): 001334
• CA Dream Act: 00133400

Understanding the eligibility criteria for financial aid is crucial. Here's a brief overview:

1. Financial Need: Demonstrating financial need is a key factor in qualifying for aid. We encourage timely submission of applications to maximize your chances of receiving assistance.

2. Admission and Enrollment: Students must be admitted to the college and enrolled in an eligible degree or certificate program to receive aid. However, you can apply for aid before admission or enrollment.

3. Citizenship: Most aid programs require U.S. citizenship or eligibility for non-U.S. citizens. We offer limited financial assistance options for non-U.S. citizens under specific circumstances.

4. Social Security Number: A valid Social Security Number is required for most applicants, though exceptions apply for California Dream Act applicants.

5. Academic Progress: Continuing students must maintain satisfactory academic progress to remain eligible for aid.

6. Educational Use: Federal student aid is intended for educational purposes only.

7. Financial Obligations: To retain eligibility, students must not owe refunds on federal grants or be in default on federal educational loans.

We're committed to helping you navigate the financial aid process and achieve your educational goals. Don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need assistance. Your success is our priority!

Eligibility Restrictions

If you already hold a bachelor's degree and are pursuing further undergraduate studies, you may still access financial assistance, albeit with some limitations. Specifically:

• Bachelor's Degree Holders: Undergraduates with a completed bachelor's degree can receive loans and the California College Promise Grant for additional coursework. However, they are ineligible for federal grants like the Pell Grant or state grants such as the Cal Grant.

• Enrollment at Multiple Institutions: Students concurrently enrolled at more than one college or university can only receive the Pell Grant from one institution, not both.

• Loan Limits: Students are restricted from borrowing more than their annual loan limit. Ventura College determines loan eligibility by assessing the student’s borrowing history through the National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS).

For further clarification or assistance, please don't hesitate to contact the VC Financial Aid Office at 805.289.6369.

These restrictions ensure fair and equitable distribution of financial aid resources while supporting students in their educational pursuits.

Steps to Apply for Financial Aid at Ventura College:

Step 1: Application Submission

• Complete the FAFSA or CA Dream Act Application online by visiting studentaid.gov or CalDreamAct.org.
• Applications are processed continuously throughout the school year. Expect approximately 7-10 business days for Ventura College to receive and process your application.

Step 2: Follow-Up

• Within two weeks of submitting your application, follow up with the Financial Aid office.
• An email notification will be sent to your student account upon receipt of your application.

By following these steps, you'll ensure a smooth and timely processing of your financial aid application.

Simplified Financial Aid Application Process

At Ventura College, we recognize the importance of simplifying the financial aid application process for our students. That's why we're committed to ensuring that your eligibility for financial aid is determined through a single application. Here's what you can expect:

Step 1: Application Submission

• Whether you've filed a FAFSA or a California Dream Act Application, rest assured that one application covers all your financial aid needs.
• After submission, expect to receive an email confirmation of your successful application.

Step 2: Assessment and Expectations

• For FAFSA filers: Keep an eye out for your FAFSA Submission Summary Student Aid Report (SAR) from the federal processor, accessible via fafsa.gov.
• Dream Act Application filers: Log in to dream.csac.ca.gov to view your SAR and check your application status.
• The FAFSA Submission Summary provides your Student Aid Index (SAI), crucial for determining aid types. Any necessary corrections to your application can be conveniently made online.

Step 3: Additional Steps: MyVCCCD Portal

• Log in to your MyVCCCD student portal and navigate to "Financial Aid Requirements" to view the necessary items for completion.
• Ensure all required documents are submitted promptly to the Financial Aid Office for processing.

Step 4: Personalized Aid Package

• Upon completion of the review process (typically within 2-3 weeks), eligible students will receive an award notification email to their my.vcccd.edu account. Access your personalized aid package.

Step 5: Stay Informed

• Monitor your MyVCCCD student portal regularly for updates on your financial aid status.

At Ventura College, we're dedicated to supporting you throughout your financial aid journey. Don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need further assistance.

Special Circumstances Due to Family Financial Changes

We recognize that unexpected events can impact your financial situation and ability to cover college expenses. If you've experienced a change in financial circumstances since submitting your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or CA Dream Act Application, Ventura College is here to support you. You may be eligible to file an appeal to address these changes and ensure you receive the financial assistance you need.

Requesting and submitting an appeal for financial aid at Ventura College involves a series of steps to ensure that your appeal receives the proper review and consideration it deserves. For detailed information on the process, including eligibility criteria and required documentation, please visit our website by clicking here: Financial Aid Professional Judgement Appeals.