Financial Aid & Scholarship Office

Financial Aid & Scholarship Office

Welcome! Our dedicated team is here to support you every step of the way - from applying for financial aid to maintaining your eligibility. Questions? Please reach out to us at 530-898-6451 or email finaid@csuchico.edu for help.

Our school code is: 001146. Be sure to list Chico State when completing the FAFSA(opens in new window) or CADAA(opens in new window).

Fall 2026 Financial Aid Processing Update

Appeals: Appeals are processed in the order they are received and it can take up to several months to review your appeal. We appreciate your patience as we work to ensure your financial aid is processed accurately.

Loans: Due to the implementation of the One Big Beautiful Bill, we are experiencing technical issues that have delayed some of loan disbursements. We are working to resolve them as quickly as possible. In the meantime if you need funds immediately, you can submit a Short-Term Loan Application.

Important Federal Student Aid Changes (Effective July 2026)

Learn about changes to federal student aid under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. New loan limits and eligibility requirements take effect for the 2026–27 academic year. Some continuing students may qualify for legacy loan provisions. Watch the overview below to learn more.

Hot Topics! 

  • 2027-28 FAFSA and CADAA are now open! Apply early, and definitely apply by the California Priority Deadline of March 2, 2027.
  • Calculate Your Costs: Cost is only one of the things you consider when picking a college, but it is an important one. Use our new net price calculator(opens in new window) to understand the cost of attending Chico State.
  • Financial Wellness: Check out this new CSU Financial Wellness webpage(opens in new window).
  • Course Auditor: Financial aid can only pay for courses that are required for your graduation so Course Auditor checks the classes you register for against your Degree Progress Report (DPR).  See Course Auditor FAQ (PDF).

Reach out for financial aid help

Call, Email or Visit

Phone:  530-898-6451

  • Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday: 10 AM–4 PM

Lobby: Student Services Center 250

  • Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday: 8 AM–5 PM

Closed Tuesdays for aid processing. 

Financial Aid Email: finaid@csuchico.edu

Scholarships Email: scholarships@csuchico.edu
Drop-In Zoom Advising

Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday: 11 AM–12 PM 

  • Please have your Chico State ID # ready.
  • Drop-in advising is best for quick financial aid questions.
  • More complex situations may require a scheduled appointment with an advisor.
  • Students are assisted on a first-come, first-served basis during the drop-in hour.

Enter Zoom waiting room

Schedule an Appointment

Appointments are available in person, by phone, or by Zoom.
Call 530-898-6451 to schedule.

Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday:

  • 10 AM–12 PM
  • 1:30 PM–4 :30 PM
Important Dates

The 2027-28 FAFSA and CADAA are now open. Apply early!

Complete your To-Do list to avoid delays

View Full Financial Aid Calendar

Award Guide

A multi-page guide to understanding and managing your financial aid. 

Award Guide 2026-2027 (PDF)