Middle Class Scholarship 2025/2026

HOW TO APPLY FOR THE ONGOING MIDDLE CLASS SCHOLARSHIP 2025/2026

The Middle Class Scholarship (MCS) 2025/2026 is your chance to bridge that financial gap. Sponsored by the state of California and managed by the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC), this scholarship program is designed to provide financial aid to undergraduate students pursuing higher education at the University of California (UC) or California State University (CSU) campuses.

In this blog, we will guide you, as well walk you through how to apply for the ongoing Middle Class Scholarship 2025/2026, eligibility requirements, key deadlines, benefits, and practical tips to increase your chances of success.

Brief History and What to know the Middle Class Scholarship (MCS)

The Middle Class Scholarship is a state-funded program designed to support undergraduate students whose family income is less than $217,000 and who do not qualify for the full amount of other need-based grants like the Pell Grant or Cal Grant.

Key Benefits:

• Awards range from 10% to 40% of tuition and systemwide fees.

• Available for up to four years of undergraduate study.

• Can be renewed annually if eligibility is maintained.

• Can be combined with other state or federal aid, making it an ideal option for middle-income families.

Eligibility for the Middle Class Scholarship 2025/2026

Before applying, make sure you meet the following eligibility criteria

General Requirements:

• Must be a U.S. citizen, eligible non-citizen, or AB 540 student.

• Enrolled at a University of California (UC) or California State University (CSU).

• Be pursuing an undergraduate degree.

• Maintain satisfactory academic progress.

• Must not be in default on any student loans.

• Family income and assets must fall below $217,000

AB 540 Students:

If you are an undocumented student, you may still qualify under California Dream Act provisions, provided you meet AB 540 criteria.

How Much Is the Middle Class Scholarship Worth

Award amounts vary and are calculated based on a sliding income scale. Students from families with income closer to $80,000 will receive more aid than those nearing the $217,000 threshold.

Here’s an estimated breakdown:

Note: Final award amounts depend on state budget availability and other financial aid received

Required Documents

To ensure a smooth application, prepare the following documents in advance:

• Social Security Number (if applicable)

• Federal tax returns (student and parent)

• Bank statements

• Records of untaxed income (SSI, workers’ comp, etc.)

• Driver’s license or state ID

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Apply for the Middle Class Scholarship 2025

Follow these steps to ensure a successful application process:

Step 1: File FAFSA or CADAA

To apply for MCS, you must submit one of the following:

• FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid):https://studentaid.gov

• CADAA (California Dream Act Application):https://dream.csac.ca.gov

These applications gather essential financial information to determine your eligibility.

Pro Tip: Double-check your Social Security Number, school codes, and tax info before submitting.

Step 2: Submit GPA Verification (If Required)

While the Middle Class Scholarship does not require GPA verification directly, other state financial aid programs you may be applying for simultaneously (like Cal Grant) do.

High school students should verify that their school automatically submits GPA to the CSAC

Step 3: Wait for Your Financial Aid Summary

Once FAFSA or CADAA is processed:

• CSAC will assess your income, assets, and eligibility.

• If you qualify, your award will be posted on your WebGrants4Students (WG4S) account: https://mygrantinfo.csac.ca.gov

Step 4: Accept the MCS Award

If eligible, you will see the Middle Class Scholarship 2025/2026 listed in your financial aid award letter from your college. Be sure to accept the award through your campus student portal.

Step 5: Stay Eligible Each Year

The MCS is renewable, but students must:

• File FAFSA/CADAA each academic year.

• Remain enrolled at UC/CSU.

• Maintain at least half-time enrollment.

• Maintain satisfactory academic progress.

SEE ALSO

Brunei Darussalam Government Scholarship 2025 This Scholarship Scheme covers Tuition fees and some other Expenses ($50,000+)

UOW Scholarship 2025 This scholarship covers Both Tuition, Feeding and Living Expenses, Books Allowance And Many other Expenses, For Both International and local Applicants.

Important Deadlines for MCS 2025

Missing the deadline can cost you the opportunity to receive aid. Keep these important dates in mind:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I receive MCS and Cal Grant at the same time?

No. If you qualify for a Cal Grant that covers full tuition, you won’t receive MCS. But if your Cal Grant does not cover all fees, you might still get partial MCS.

Do I need to pay back the MCS?

No. The Middle Class Scholarship is not a loan, it is free financial aid.

Is it available for graduate students?

No. The scholarship is only for undergraduate students attending UC or CSU schools.

What if I transfer between CSU/UC schools?

As long as you stay in the UC/CSU (University of California (UC) or California State University (CSU)) system and maintain eligibility, your award can be transferred

Final Thoughts

The Middle Class Scholarship 2025 is a golden opportunity for students who fall into the “gap zone”  not poor enough to qualify for full aid, yet not wealthy enough to pay tuition out-of-pocket. Don’t let financial constraints hold you back. Take advantage of this state-supported scholarship to reduce your student debt and secure your educational future.

Start your application today and make your college dreams more affordable! Do well to always visit the Application website for Updated information Regarding the Middle Class Scholarship 2025 Through the website https://www.csac.ca.gov