As we kick off the spring semester, we’re focusing on financial aid and scholarship opportunities to help students take the next step in their academic journey. Whether you’re preparing for college or exploring ways to fund your education, this special edition has the resources and information you need to succeed.

The FAFSA and CADAA applications for the 2025-2026 academic year are now open! These applications are crucial for seniors planning to attend college, career training, or trade schools and seeking financial aid to cover costs.

• FAFSA: For U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens to access federal and state aid.
• CADAA: For undocumented students meeting AB 540 requirements to access California state aid.

Priority Deadline: March 2, 2025 — apply early to maximize your financial aid opportunities!

Need help? Visit the College & Career Center or attend our District Financial Aid Night on January 15th! Don’t miss out on resources to support your education!

Alhambra High School

1/15: Senior Financial Aid Presentation, 2/11: ELAC App Workshop, 2/18: LATTC App Workshop, 2/25: PCC App Workshop— all during Advisory. Get Financial Aid help from CCC on 2/5 & 2/26, sign up via PowerSchool Adaptive Scheduler. RSVP: https://tinyurl.com/2025CCAppWorkshop

Mark Keppel High School

For month of January, it is Tuesdays during PowerTime. For months of February and March will be lunch and PowerTime on Tuesdays. Students may sign up for all sessions on Adaptive Scheduler under "12th Grade Community College & Financial Aid Application Workshop".

San Gabriel High School

For month of January, it is Wednesdays during ME TIME and student sign up on Adaptive Scheduler. February and March will be two times a week during ME TIME.

Mark your calendars for our upcoming presentations designed to help students explore post-secondary options and navigate the college and career landscape. These sessions will provide valuable insights on career pathways, financial aid, and specialized programs. All presentations will be held from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Zoom.

• 2/5/25 - Financial Aid & Scholarships -
  RSVP at: https://tinyurl.com/AUSDecp0205

• Learn how to navigate the financial side of college with this comprehensive presentation covering the cost of attendance, types of aid, application processes, interpreting financial aid offers, scholarships, and creative ways to save. Gain essential tips and strategies to make college more affordable!

Upcoming Presentations:

• 3/5/25 - ELAC College Promise, Skill Certificates, Pathway to Law/STEM Summer Bridge/Skills Certificates/AA/AAT/TAG
• 4/9/25 - College Search - Finding the Right Fit

Scholarships are an incredible opportunity to reduce the financial burden of college, trade school, or career training. Many scholarships reward students for their academic achievements, community involvement, leadership, or future goals, and the funds awarded can make a significant difference in covering tuition, fees, and other expenses.

Alhambra Management Association (AMA) Scholarship 2025
Deadline: February 28, 2025
Award: $800

This scholarship is for graduating seniors at AHS, MKHS, or SGHS who meet the following criteria:

• Interested in a career in teaching or public service
• Proven to be a good citizen planning to continue their education
• Involved in school activities, community service, or extracurricular activities
• Minimum 2.5 GPA

Don’t miss this opportunity to be recognized for your contributions and aspirations!

More Info/Application Here

Alhambra Council PTA Scholarship
Deadline: March 1, 2025
Award: $800

To be eligible for this scholarship, applicants must:

• Be a graduating senior and PTA member
• Submit an online application
• Provide a high school transcript (minimum 2.0 GPA)
• Include a reference form and letter of recommendation
• Answer the personal statement question

Apply now to receive support for your post-high school plans!

More Info/Application Here

Eleanor Barry Memorial Scholarship
Deadline: April 1, 2025
Website: Apply Here

This scholarship is open to students who:

• Reside in Monterey Park or attend a high school in the Montebello, San Gabriel, or Alhambra School District
• Demonstrate financial need
• Plan to attend full-time at an accredited college, university, vocational, technical, or professional school in the U.S.

More Info/Application Here

Why Are Most Scholarships for 12th Graders?
Scholarships are often targeted at graduating seniors because this is a pivotal time as students prepare to transition from high school to higher education. Awarding scholarships at this stage helps students access immediate funding for the first year of college or training programs, when financial needs are often highest.

If you're a senior, don’t miss out—apply now and make the most of these opportunities! Underclassmen can also begin preparing by focusing on academics, leadership, and community involvement to stand out when it’s their turn to apply.

We encourage you to visit the AUSD Scholarship Bulletin (https://tinyurl.com/AUSD-scholarships) for current scholarship opportunities. Please note that it is not comprehensive, so we recommend exploring additional national databases, such as Fastweb and Scholarships.com. Also, keep in mind that most local scholarships are available for seniors, so be sure to revisit these resources during your 12th-grade year.

California’s University of California (UC) and California State University (CSU) systems offer students high-quality education at an affordable cost. With in-state tuition rates that are significantly lower than private institutions, these schools are a great option for students and families looking to minimize debt. Additionally, the Cal Grant program, Middle Class Scholarship, and campus-specific aid make UC and CSU schools even more accessible. Many students find that their financial aid packages reduce tuition costs to a fraction of the published price.

The UC and CSU systems provide financial aid programs tailored to California residents. For example, students with family incomes below a certain threshold may qualify for free or reduced tuition through programs like the Blue and Gold Opportunity Plan at UC. Even students who do not qualify for need-based aid can benefit from merit scholarships, work-study opportunities, and federal loans. Completing your FAFSA or CADAA by the March 2nd priority deadline is key to unlocking these resources.

Affordability extends beyond tuition—UC and CSU campuses also provide options for affordable housing, meal plans, and textbooks. They are committed to supporting students throughout their educational journey by offering on-campus jobs, academic resources, and cost-saving opportunities. By choosing a UC or CSU school, students can access a world-class education while keeping their financial future on track.

Private colleges and universities may seem expensive at first glance, but don’t let the sticker price discourage you from exploring these options. Many private institutions offer substantial financial aid packages that can significantly lower the actual cost of attendance. This aid often includes need-based assistance, merit scholarships, and grants that are specifically designed to make private education more accessible. Some schools even meet 100% of demonstrated financial need, making them competitive with public colleges in affordability.

In addition to generous aid, private colleges often have smaller class sizes, personalized support, and unique academic programs that might align perfectly with your career goals. The investment can be well worth it, especially if you’re looking for a tailored educational experience. Be sure to research each school’s financial aid policies, scholarship opportunities, and deadlines to ensure you don’t miss out on any resources.

When applying to private colleges, submitting your FAFSA or CADAA is crucial to accessing federal and state aid. Many private schools also require additional forms like the CSS Profile to determine eligibility for institutional aid. By applying early and exploring all your options, you may find that private colleges are not only academically enriching but also financially feasible.

CTE Advisor (Roving)
Jose Cervantes

jimenez_jose@ausd.us

CLICK here to book an appointment with Mr. Cervantes

Servicing all 3 high schools:

AHS - Monday/Thursday

MKHS - Tuesday/Friday

SGHS - Wednesday