Juvenile Justice, Success & Impact

Youth in juvenile facilities eligible for Cal Grant funding

For the first time, the California Student Aid Commission will be sharing that youth in juvenile facilities across the state of CA can get financial aid for college. Yesterday, CSAC updated their Cal Grant Handbook, an important tool used by teachers, counselors, and administrators, to say that youth in juvenile facilities who are under the jurisdiction of the juvenile court are not incarcerated, and therefore are indeed eligible for Cal Grant funding. YLC has been working with CSAC to clarify this issue and ensure that this population of aspiring scholars does not get overlooked. This change is important because it opens up more financial aid funding sources for youth in juvenile facilities; youth can get additional funding for books and supplies, as well as for living expenses upon release. Youth who are in facilities long-term may also be able to access funding that can help them pay for a four-year degree through the transfer entitlement program. Click below to view the updated Cal Grant Handbook.