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Navigating the financial landscape of higher education can be overwhelming, particularly for students facing economic challenges. The Board of Governors Fee Waiver application plays a pivotal role in alleviating the burden of enrollment fees for eligible individuals, helping them pursue their academic dreams without the added stress of immediate financial constraints. This application is designed not only for California residents but also encompasses eligible students under the AB 540 and AB 1899 classifications. It offers a pathway for those who may be victims of trafficking, domestic violence, or other serious crimes to access education without financial barriers. Additionally, it is essential for applicants to gather necessary documentation, as those in registered domestic partnerships may need to disclose income and household information in a manner similar to married students. Moreover, the application assesses dependency status, ensuring that financial assistance is directed appropriately based on the student's unique situation. For those interested in additional resources, completing a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the California Dream Application can further enhance access to financial aid for various college-related expenses, including textbooks and transportation costs. Emphasizing inclusivity and support, this fee waiver application is a vital tool in California's community colleges for ensuring equal opportunities and fostering academic achievement for all students.

Colleges Fee Waiver Example

California Community Colleges 2014-15 Board of Governors Fee Waiver Application

This is an application to have your ENROLLMENT FEES WAIVED. If you need money to help with books, supplies, food, rent, transportation and other costs, please complete a FREE APPLICATION FOR FEDERAL STUDENT AID (FAFSA) or the California Dream Application (for eligible AB 540 students) immediately. The FAFSA is available at www.fafsa.ed.gov and the Dream Application is available at http://www.csac.ca.gov/dream_act.asp. Contact the Financial Aid Office for more information.

IMPLEMENTATION OF Assembly Bill 1899: Victims of Trafficking, Domestic Violence and other Serious Crimes

AB 1899, chaptered in September of 2012, provides for a non-resident enrollment fee exemption for “Victims of trafficking, domestic violence and other serious crimes”. In addition, the legislation allows these students to apply for and, if eligible, receive financial aid from programs administered by public postsecondary institutions or the state of California. Finally, the legislation provides that enrollment fees shall be waived for these students who apply for and are eligible to receive Board of Governor enrollment fee waivers.

This FEE WAIVER application is for California residents, eligible AB 540 students, and eligible AB 1899 students, as determined by the Admissions or Registrar’s Office. If you have not had your California residency or eligibility status determined by the Admissions or the Registrar, please see one of those offices to obtain the valid determination. Fee waiver eligibility cannot be determined until your status has been verified.

Has the Admissions or Registrar's Office determined that you are a California resident?Yes No

If no, has the Admissions or Registrar's Office determined that you are eligible for a non-resident tuition exemption as an AB 540

student?Yes No

If no, has the Admissions or Registrar's Office determined that you are eligible for a non-resident tuition exemption granted as a result of your immigration status under Section 1101(a)(15)(T)(i) or (ii), or Section1101 (a)(15)(U)(i) or (ii), of Title 8 of the United States

Code?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Yes No

Name:

 

 

 

 

 

Student ID #

 

Last

First

 

Middle Initial

Email (if available):

 

 

 

 

 

Telephone Number:

 

Home Address:

 

 

 

 

 

Date of Birth:

 

 

 

Street

 

City,State

Zip Code

IMPLEMENTATION OF THE CALIFORNIA DOMESTIC PARTNER RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES ACT

The California Domestic Partner Rights and Responsibilities Act extends rights, benefits, responsibilities and obligations to individuals in domestic partnerships registered with the California Secretary of State under Section 297 of the Family Code. If you are in a Registered Domestic Partnership (RDP), you will be treated as an Independent married student to determine eligibility for this Enrollment Fee Waiver and will need to provide income and household information for your domestic partner. If you are a dependent student and your parent is in a Registered Domestic Partnership, you will be treated the same as a student with married parents and income and household information will be required for the parent’s domestic partner.

Note: These provisions apply to state student financial aid ONLY, and not to federal student financial aid.

Are you or your parent in a Registered Domestic Partnership with the California Secretary of State under Section 297 of the Family Code? (Answer “Yes” if you or your parent are separated from a Registered Domestic Partner but have NOT FILED a Notice of

Termination of Domestic Partnership with the California Secretary of State’s Office.)

Yes No

If you answered “Yes” to the question above, treat the Registered Domestic Partner as a spouse. You are required to include your domestic partner’s income and household information or your parent’s domestic partner’s income and household information in Questions 4, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17.

Student Marital Status

Single Married Divorced Separated Widowed Registered Domestic Partnership

DEPENDENCY STATUS

The questions below will determine whether you are considered a Dependent student or Independent student for fee waiver eligibility and whether parental information is needed. If you answer “Yes” to ANY of the questions 1-10 below, you will be considered an INDEPENDENT student. If you answer “No” to all questions, you will be considered a Dependent student thereby reporting parental information and should continue with Question 11.

1.

Were you born before January 1, 1991?

Yes

No

2.

As of today, are you married or in a Registered Domestic Partnership (RDP)?

(Answer "Yes" if you are separated but not divorced

 

or have not filed a termination notice to dissolve partnership.

Yes

No

3.Are you a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces or currently serving on active duty for purposes other than training?

Yes No

4.Do you have children who will receive more than half of their support from you between July 1, 2014-June 30, 2015, or other dependents who live with you (other than your children or spouse/RDP) who receive more than half of their support from you, now

 

and through June 30, 2015

Yes

No

5.

At any time since you turned age 13, were both your parents deceased, were you in foster care, or were you a dependent or ward

 

of the court?

Yes

No

6.

Are you or were you an emancipated minor as determined by a court in your state of legal residence?

Yes

No

 

 

7.

Are you or were you in legal guardianship as determined by a court in your state of legal residence?

 

 

 

 

Yes

No

8.

At any time on or after July 1, 2013, did your high school or school district homeless liaison determine that you were an

 

 

unaccompanied youth who was homeless

Yes

No

9.At any time on or after July 1, 2013, did the director of an emergency shelter or transitional housing program funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development determine that you were an unaccompanied youth who was homeless?

Yes No

10.At any time on or after July 1, 2013, did the director of a runaway or homeless youth basic center or transitional living program determine that you were an unaccompanied youth who was homeless or were self-supporting and at risk of being homeless?

Yes No

If you answered "Yes" to any of the questions 1 - 10, you are considered an INDEPENDENT student for enrollment fee waiver purposes and must provide income and household information about yourself (and your spouse or RDP if applicable). Skip to Question #13.

If you answered "No" to all questions 1 - 10, complete the following questions:

11.

If your parent(s) or his/her RDP filed or will file a 2013 U.S. Income Tax Return, were you, or will you be claimed on their tax return

 

as an exemption by either or both of your parents?

Will Not File Yes No

12.

Do you live with one or both of your parent(s) and/or his/her RDP?

Yes No

If you answered "No" to questions 1 - 10 and "Yes" to either question 11 or 12, you must provide income and household information about your PARENT(S)/RDP. Please answer questions for a DEPENDENT student in the sections that follow.

If you answered "No" or "Parent(s) will not file" to question 11, and "No" to question 12, you are a dependent student for all student aid except this enrollment fee waiver. You may answer questions as an INDEPENDENT student on the rest of this application, but please try to get your PARENT information and file a FAFSA so you may be considered for other student aid. You cannot get other student aid without your parent(s’) information.

13. Are you (the student ONLY) currently receiving monthly cash assistance for yourself or any dependents from:

TANF/CalWORKs?

Yes

No

SSI/SSP (Supplemental Security Income/State Supplemental Program)?

Yes

No

General Assistance?

Yes

No

14. If you are a dependent student, are your parent(s)/RDP receiving monthly cash assistance from TANF/CalWORKs or SSI/SSP as

a primary source of income?

Yes No

If you answered "Yes" to question 13 or 14 you are eligible for an ENROLLMENT FEE WAIVER. Sign the Certification at the end of this form. You are required to show current proof of benefits. Submit application and documentation to the financial aid office.

METHOD B ENROLLMENT FEE WAIVER

15.DEPENDENT STUDENT: How many persons are in your parent(s)/RDP household? (Include yourself, your parent(s)/RDP, and anyone who lives with your parent(s)/RDP and receives more than 50% of their support from your parents/RDP, now and through June 30, 2015.)

16.INDEPENDENT STUDENT: How many persons are in your household? (Include yourself, your spouse/RDP, and anyone who lives with you and receives more than 50% of their support from you, now and through June 30, 2015.)

17.2013 Income Information

(Dependent students should not include their income information for Q 17 a and b below.)

a.Adjusted Gross Income (If 2013 U.S. Income Tax Return was filed, enter the amount from Form 1040, line 37; 1040A, line 21; 1040EZ, line 4).

b.All other income (Include ALL money received in 2013 that is not included in line (a) above (such as disability, child support, military living allowance, Workman’s Compensation, untaxed pensions).

TOTAL Income for 2013 (Sum of a + b)

 

DEPENDENT STUDENT:

INDEPENDENT STUDENT:

 

PARENT(S)/ RDP

STUDENT (& SPOUSE'S/

 

INCOME ONLY

RDP) INCOME

$

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

 

 

$

 

 

The Financial Aid Office will review your income and let you know if you qualify for an ENROLLMENT FEE WAIVER under Method B. Submit application and documentation to the financial aid office.

If you do not qualify using Method A or Method B, you should file a FAFSA (for U.S. citizens or eligible non-citizens) or the California Dream Application (for undocumented AB 540 students). The FAFSA is available at www.fafsa.ed.gov and the Dream Application is available at http://www.csac.ca.gov/dream_act.asp . Contact the Financial Aid Office for more information.

 

SPECIAL CLASSIFICATIONS ENROLLMENT FEE WAIVERS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

18.

Do you have certification from the CA Department of Veterans Affairs that you are eligible for a dependent's fee waiver?

 

 

 

Submit certification.

Yes

No

 

 

19.

Do you have certification from the National Guard Adjutant General that you are eligible for a dependent's fee waiver?

 

 

 

 

 

Submit certification.

Yes

No

 

 

20.

Are you eligible as a recipient of the Congressional Medal of Honor or as a child of a recipient?

Yes

No

 

 

 

Submit documentation from the Department of Veterans Affairs.

 

 

21.

Are you eligible as a dependent of a victim of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attack?

Yes

No

 

 

 

Submit documentation from the CA Victim Compensation and Government Claims Board.

 

 

22.

Are you eligible as a dependent of a deceased law enforcement/fire suppression personnel killed in the line of duty?

 

 

 

 

 

Submit documentation from the public agency employer of record.

Yes

No

 

 

 

 

 

If you answered "Yes" to any of the questions from 18-22, you are eligible for an ENROLLMENT FEE WAIVER and perhaps other fee waivers or adjustments. Sign the Certification below. Submit application and documentation to the financial aid office. Contact the Financial Aid Office if you have questions.

CERTIFICATION FOR ALL APPLICANTS: READ THIS STATEMENT AND SIGN BELOW

I hereby swear or affirm, under penalty of perjury, that all information on this form is true and complete to the best of my knowledge. If asked by an authorized official, I agree to provide proof of this information, which may include a copy of my and my spouse/registered domestic partner and/or my parent's/registered domestic partner’s 2013 U.S. Income Tax Return(s). I also realize that any false statement or failure to give proof when asked may be cause for the denial, reduction, withdrawal, and/or repayment of my waiver. I authorize release of information regarding this application between the college, the college district, and the Chancellor's Office of the California Community Colleges.

I understand the following information (please check each box):

Federal and state financial aid programs are available to help with college costs (including enrollment fees, books & supplies, transportation and room and board expenses). By completing the FAFSA or the California Dream Application, additional financial assistance may be available in the form of Cal Grants, Pell and other grants, work study and other aid.

I may apply for and receive financial assistance if I am enrolled, either full time or part time, in an eligible program of study (certificate, associate degree or transfer).

Financial aid program information and application assistance is available in the college financial aid office.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Applicant’s Signature

Date

 

Parent Signature (Dependent Students Only)

Date

CALIFORNIA INFORMATION PRIVACY ACT

State and federal laws protect an individual’s right to privacy regarding information pertaining to oneself. The California Information Practices Act of 1977 requires the following information be provided to financial aid applicants who are asked to supply information about themselves. The principal purpose for requesting information on this form is to determine your eligibility for financial aid. The Chancellor’s Office policy and the policy of the community college to which you are applying for aid authorize maintenance of this information. Failure to provide such information will delay and may even prevent your receipt of financial assistance. This form’s information may be transmitted to other state agencies and the federal government if required by law. Individuals have the right of access to records established from information furnished on this form as it pertains to them.

The officials responsible for maintaining the information contained on this form are the financial aid administrators at the institutions to which you are applying for financial aid. The SSN may be used to verify your identity under record keeping systems established prior to January 1, 1975. If your college requires you to provide an SSN and you have questions, you should ask the financial aid officer at your college for further information. The Chancellor’s Office and the California community colleges, in compliance with federal and state laws, do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, age, disability, medical condition, sexual orientation, domestic partnership or any other legally protected basis. Inquiries regarding these policies may be directed to the financial aid office of the college to which you are applying.

FOR OFFICE USE ONLY

BOGFW-A

BOGFW-B

Special Classification

RDP

Student is not

TANF/CalWORKs

 

 

 

Veteran

National Guard

Student

eligible

GA

BOGFW-C

 

 

Dependent

Parent

 

 

SSI/SSP

Medal of Honor

9/11 Dependent

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dep. of deceased law enforcement/fire

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

personnel

 

 

 

 

 

 

Comments:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Certified by:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date:

 

 

 

 

Board of Governors Fee Waiver Program

BOGFW-B

2014-2015 Income Standards*

Family Size

2013 Income

 

 

1

$17,235

2

$23,265

3

$29,295

4

$35,325

5

$41,355

6

$47,385

7

$53,415

8

$59,445

Each Additional Family

 

Member

$6,030

 

 

*These standards are based upon the federal poverty guidelines, as published each year by the US Department of Health and Human Services. Under Title 5 of the California Code of Regulations, the student or student’s family must have a total income in the prior year (in this case, 2013) that is equal to or less than 150% of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Poverty Guidelines based on family size.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services published the 2013 Poverty Guidelines in January 2013 (Fed er al Regist er , Vol . 7 8 , No. 1 6 , Jan u ar y 2 4 , 2 0 1 3 , p p . 5 1 8 2 - 5 1 8 3 ). https://federalregister.gov/a/2013-01422

These income standards are for the 2014-2015 academic year and are to be used to determine BOGFW-B eligibility EFFECTIVE July 1, 2014.

http://aspe.hhs.gov/poverty/12poverty.shtml

Form Characteristics

Fact Name Description
Purpose of the Form The Board of Governors Fee Waiver Application is designed to allow eligible California students to have their enrollment fees waived.
Eligibility Criteria California residents, AB 540 students, and victims of serious crimes as defined under Assembly Bill 1899 may qualify for the fee waiver.
Financial Aid Applications Students are encouraged to complete the FAFSA or the California Dream Application to access funds for other educational expenses like books and transportation.
AB 1899 Compliance This law provides fee waivers and financial aid eligibility for victims of trafficking and domestic violence.
Dependency Status Answers to specific questions on the application will determine whether a student is classified as dependent or independent, impacting their eligibility.
Income Requirements Income levels must align with federal poverty guidelines, and eligibility is based on the prior year's income to qualify for the fee waiver.
California Domestic Partner Policy The application recognizes registered domestic partnerships, treating such students similarly to married students for financial aid eligibility.
Special Classifications Dependents of veterans, victims of the 9/11 attacks, and those affected by other special circumstances may qualify for additional fee waivers.
Privacy Act Compliance According to the California Information Privacy Act, information provided may be shared with necessary state agencies to determine eligibility.

Guidelines on Utilizing Colleges Fee Waiver

Filling out the Colleges Fee Waiver form can seem daunting at first, but breaking it down into manageable steps makes the process easier. After completing this form, you will submit it along with any required documentation to the financial aid office of your college. This will allow them to assess your eligibility for a fee waiver, which can help you alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with attending college.

  1. Gather necessary information, including your personal details such as name, student ID number, email, and telephone number.
  2. Provide your home address and date of birth in the designated fields.
  3. Determine your residency status by responding to the questions regarding California residency and eligibility for non-resident tuition exemption.
  4. If applicable, indicate whether you or your parent is in a Registered Domestic Partnership and include relevant income information.
  5. Answer the dependency status questions to determine if you are classified as a dependent or independent student.
  6. Provide your answers for the income and household information based on your status (dependent or independent) as instructed.
  7. Complete the questions about special classifications, if applicable, to determine further eligibility for fee waivers.
  8. Read and sign the certification statement at the bottom of the form, affirming the accuracy of your information.
  9. Submit the completed form along with any necessary documents to the financial aid office at your college.

What You Should Know About This Form

What is the Colleges Fee Waiver form used for?

The Colleges Fee Waiver form allows eligible students to have their enrollment fees waived for California Community Colleges. This form is specifically designed for California residents, certain non-resident students, and individuals who meet specific criteria outlined by Assembly Bill 1899. If you are facing financial challenges, don't forget to complete a FAFSA or California Dream Application to access additional support for books, supplies, and other living expenses.

Who qualifies for the Colleges Fee Waiver?

Eligibility for the Colleges Fee Waiver depends on various factors, including residency status and financial need. California residents who meet income standards based on family size can apply. Eligible non-resident students, such as AB 540 students and certain victims of serious crimes, may also qualify. It is crucial to have your residency status determined by the Admissions or Registrar’s Office for correct eligibility. If you have questions about your status, visit the office for assistance.

What should I do if I am not a California resident?

If you are not a California resident, you may still be eligible for a fee waiver if you qualify as an AB 540 student or through the provisions of AB 1899. It's important to check with the Admissions or Registrar’s Office to determine your qualifying status. Completing the required documentation is essential to ensure proper processing of your application.

How do I complete the application process?

To complete the application, fill out the Colleges Fee Waiver form with accurate information, including personal details, financial status, and household composition. If you are receiving cash assistance, include that information as it may affect your eligibility. Submit the completed form along with any required documentation to the Financial Aid Office for review. Make sure to keep track of deadlines and reach out to the office if you have questions or need further assistance.

What if I do not qualify for the fee waiver?

If you do not qualify for the Colleges Fee Waiver, consider filing a FAFSA if you are a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen. This can help you gain access to other forms of financial aid, including grants and work-study opportunities. Alternatively, undocumented students who meet specific criteria can complete the California Dream Application. Always consult with the Financial Aid Office for guidance and support throughout the process.

Common mistakes

When applying for the Board of Governors Fee Waiver at California Community Colleges, many people make avoidable mistakes that can jeopardize their eligibility. Understanding these common pitfalls can help ensure the application process goes smoothly and that eligible students receive the financial support they need.

One frequent mistake is not obtaining proper residency documentation. Applicants often skip verifying their status with the Admissions or Registrar's Office. The fee waiver is specifically for California residents or eligible AB 540 students, so it's crucial to ensure that this status is confirmed before submitting the application. Without this verification, the fee waiver application might be delayed or denied altogether.

Another common error is neglecting to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the California Dream Application. While the Fee Waiver helps with enrollment fees, students still may need these applications for other financial assistance, such as grants and loans. Missing this step could limit their overall financial aid options.

Providing inaccurate income information can also lead to complications. Whether a student is considered dependent or independent greatly affects how income is reported. Some applicants fail to include the income of their registered domestic partner or spouse, which can result in qualifying for the waiver under Method B. Ensure that all relevant household income is correctly reported to enhance the chances of obtaining assistance.

Moreover, failing to read instructions thoroughly can lead to mistakes. The form contains numerous questions that dictate eligibility. For instance, a student might overlook the importance of answering whether they are homeless or have been in foster care, not realizing these answers could help them qualify as independent students. Attention to detail will certainly facilitate a smoother application process.

Lastly, signing the certification without fully understanding its implications can be detrimental. The certification statement affirms that the information provided is accurate and complete. If found otherwise, the applicant could face serious consequences, including denial or repayment of the fee waiver. Taking a moment to double-check the completed application is vital before signing.

By avoiding these common mistakes, students can improve their chances of successfully receiving the Board of Governors Fee Waiver and accessing other forms of financial aid, ultimately making their educational journey more affordable.

Documents used along the form

The College Fee Waiver form is an essential document for students seeking financial assistance for their enrollment fees. Along with this form, there are several other important documents that can help students secure the necessary funding and verify their eligibility. Below is a list of some commonly used forms and documents that are often submitted alongside the College Fee Waiver form.

  • Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): This application determines eligibility for federal financial aid, including grants, loans, and work-study funds. Completing the FAFSA is usually the first step toward obtaining financial aid.
  • California Dream Application: This application is for students who are undocumented or meet certain criteria under the California Dream Act. It helps determine eligibility for state financial aid and offers additional support for eligible students.
  • Income Tax Returns: Students may need to provide their income tax returns or the returns of their parents or registered domestic partners. This information helps assess the student's financial situation and verify their eligibility for fee waivers.
  • Proof of Monthly Benefits: If a student is receiving public assistance such as TANF or SSI, documentation confirming these benefits will be required. This helps establish financial need for the waiver.
  • Veteran's Certification: For students seeking waivers as dependents of veterans, certification from the Department of Veterans Affairs may be necessary to confirm their eligibility.
  • Domestic Partnership Documentation: If applicable, students in registered domestic partnerships may need to provide documentation to show their status. This can affect dependency classification and financial assessments.
  • Other Financial Aid Documents: Additional documents may include letters or notices of eligibility from state or federal aid programs, which can provide further support for a student's application for financial assistance.

Collecting and submitting these documents can help streamline the fee waiver process. Being thorough and accurate in filling out forms will ensure that students receive the financial support they need for their education. For more specific information on what each institution requires, students should contact their financial aid office directly.

Similar forms

  • Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): Like the Colleges Fee Waiver form, the FAFSA collects information about a student’s financial situation. It determines eligibility for various federal financial aid programs, including grants and loans. Both forms require documentation about household income and may aid students in overcoming financial barriers to education.

  • California Dream Application: This application is aimed at undocumented students in California who qualify for state financial aid. Similar to the Colleges Fee Waiver form, it assesses financial need and eligibility for state-specific benefits. Both are essential for students looking to reduce their educational costs.

  • Board of Governors Fee Waiver (BOGFW): This waiver specifically addresses enrollment fees for California community college students. It operates in a similar way to the Colleges Fee Waiver form by offering financial relief to eligible low-income students. Both documents serve to make higher education more accessible.

  • TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families): TANF provides assistance to families with children to help them gain financial stability. Like the Colleges Fee Waiver form, TANF requires information about income and household composition. Both programs aim to support individuals facing financial hardships.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Colleges Fee Waiver form, it's important to follow certain guidelines to ensure accuracy and efficiency in the application process. Here’s a helpful list of things you should and shouldn't do:

  • Do read all instructions carefully before starting the application.
  • Don’t leave any fields blank; incomplete applications may cause delays.
  • Do gather necessary documents, such as tax information and proof of residency, before filling out the form.
  • Don’t rush; take your time to ensure that all information is accurate.
  • Do double-check your personal information, including your Student ID and contact details.
  • Don’t provide false information; this could result in denial of your application.
  • Do submit your application before the deadline to ensure timely processing.
  • Don’t forget to sign the certification statement, as this is required for your application to be valid.
  • Do communicate with the Financial Aid Office if you have any questions or need assistance.
  • Don’t assume eligibility; determine your status with the Admissions or Registrar’s Office if unsure.

Misconceptions

Misconceptions regarding the Colleges Fee Waiver form can lead to confusion and misinformation about eligibility. Here are seven common misconceptions along with clarifications:

  • 1. The Fee Waiver only covers enrollment fees. Many people mistakenly believe that the fee waiver is limited to just enrollment fees. In reality, the waiver allows you to apply for additional financial aid through FAFSA or the California Dream Application to cover other educational costs like books, supplies, food, and housing.
  • 2. Only low-income students are eligible. While income is a significant factor, eligibility also depends on residency status and other criteria. Students may qualify for the fee waiver through various exemptions, such as being a victim of serious crimes or domestic violence, regardless of income level.
  • 3. Non-resident students cannot apply for assistance. Non-resident students might still be eligible for a fee waiver under specific circumstances, such as being AB 540 students or being victims of trafficking or domestic violence. It is essential to check with the Admissions or Registrar’s office regarding eligibility.
  • 4. You must complete the Fee Waiver form before enrolling. This is not always true. While the form can be submitted at any time, students can enroll in courses before the fee waiver is processed. However, it is recommended to submit it promptly to prevent any service interruptions.
  • 5. All students in a Registered Domestic Partnership are treated the same. This is misleading. Depending on your status as a dependent or independent student, different income information may be required from your domestic partner, and this affects the calculations regarding financial aid.
  • 6. Eligibility determination is immediate. Many believe they will receive immediate feedback regarding their eligibility after submitting the form. In actuality, the Admissions or Registrar’s office must verify residency or eligibility status, which can take time.
  • 7. The process is the same for federal and state financial aid. This is incorrect. While both forms are essential for aid, the College Fee Waiver process is unique to California state systems, and being eligible for one does not guarantee eligibility for the other.

Understanding these misconceptions can help students navigate the financial aid process more effectively. Always reach out to the Financial Aid Office for specific questions and guidance.

Key takeaways

Understanding the Colleges Fee Waiver form: It is crucial for maximizing financial assistance opportunities at California community colleges.

  • Ensure you complete the FAFSA or California Dream Application if you need funding for books, supplies, and other costs.
  • Your eligibility for the fee waiver depends on a valid determination of California residency or eligibility status by the Admissions or Registrar’s Office.
  • Victims of trafficking or domestic violence may qualify for exemptions under Assembly Bill 1899, allowing for both fee waivers and financial aid access.
  • Students in Registered Domestic Partnerships will be assessed for fee waiver eligibility under the same conditions as married students.
  • Completing the form accurately is necessary; providing false information can lead to denial or repayment of the waiver.
  • Documentation is required, especially if you qualify under certain classifications, such as being a veteran or a dependent of a victim of a serious crime.