Financial Aid Tips and Checklists

Bookmark or download the  Financial Aid and Scholarship Checklist (PDF) to help you keep track of where you are in the financial aid process, from applying through receiving funds. Dream applicants can use the  Checklist for Dream Students (PDF) . You can also download 10 Financial Aid Tips (PDF) or 10 Financial Aid Tips in Spanish (PDF). 

In addition, we suggest you follow these tips for financial aid success throughout your education at Chico State: 

• Apply for financial aid each year regardless of your family income. Middle Class Scholarship, Federal Work-Study and low-interest loans may be available, even if you do not qualify for grant aid.
• Submit your application before the California priority deadline. For 2024-25 the date has been extended to May 2, 2024.
• Submit an application for the Wildcat Scholarships every year. The scholarship application is open January 2 – February 15 for the next academic year.
• Keep your contact information up to date. View and update address, phone, and email information in the personal information section of your Student Center.
• Check your Chico State email frequently. This is how we communicate with you.
• Accept, reduce, or decline your financial aid awards promptly. Awards may be cancelled if timely action is not taken.
• Check your Student Center frequently to view and complete any Holds and To-Do list items. Unresolved items may delay your aid.
• Create a Financial Aid Account to upload documents and electronically complete required tasks.
• Use e-Refund (direct deposit) for receipt of financial aid refunds. You can enroll in e-Refund in your Student Center under the Financials section.
• Your financial aid offer is based on an assumption that you will be enrolled full-time in a program leading to an eligible degree or credential. Full-time enrollment is 12+ units for Undergraduates and 8+ units for Graduate students. If you are not enrolled full-time at University Census your financial aid award may be reduced or cancelled based on eligible enrolled units.
• Pay your registration fees by the fee payment deadline. Pending financial aid will defer your fees until financial aid is applied to your account. You must accept aid for it to be considered "pending". If your financial aid will not cover all university charges, you must pay the difference by the fee payment deadline. Visit Student Financial Services(opens in new window) for more information.
• Visit www.csuchico/fa and follow us on TikTok @chicostate.finaid or Instagram @chicostatefinaid(opens in new window) for announcements and upcoming financial aid deadlines.