Navigating the Middle Class Scholarship at CSUF: Eligibility and Opportunities

Financial Aid refers to a wide variety of programs designed to assist students in meeting the cost of attendance at Cal State Fullerton. Among the various avenues for financial support at California State University, Fullerton (CSUF), the Middle Class Scholarship (MCS) stands out as a crucial resource for undergraduate and teaching credential students from middle-income families. Understanding the eligibility requirements and application process for the MCS is essential for students and families seeking to manage the costs associated with higher education. This article aims to provide a detailed overview of the MCS program at CSUF, including eligibility criteria, application procedures, and related financial aid opportunities.

Understanding Financial Aid at CSUF

Financial aid encompasses a range of programs designed to help students cover the costs of attending Cal State Fullerton. These programs include:

Scholarships and Grants: Gift aid that does not require repayment or work.
Student Loans: Funds that must be repaid over time with interest.
Employment Programs: Such as Federal Work-Study, which allows students to earn money through part-time jobs.

Demonstration of financial need is a primary requirement for many types of financial aid. A federal need analysis formula establishes the “expected family contribution” (EFC) based on the size of the family, the number in college, tax filing status, income and assets when completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the California Dream Act Application (CDAA). Some financial aid programs, including unsubsidized student and parent loans, private education loans, emergency loans and some scholarships do not necessarily require the demonstration of financial need.

Middle Class Scholarship (MCS) Overview

The Middle Class Scholarship (MCS) is a tuition scholarship designed to assist students in paying for part of their tuition fees at a University of California (UC) or California State University (CSU). The California Student Aid Commission administers this program and determines the student’s eligibility. Eligibility criteria are subject to change based on State Regulations. Students who receive a grant that pays for tuition are not eligible for the MCS program.

MCS 2.0: Key Changes

The state of California has modified the Middle-Class Scholarship (MCS), effective for the 2022-2023 academic year. While the name stays the same, the program has changed. California's MCS provides a scholarship to undergraduates and students pursuing a teaching credential with family income and household asset ceiling of $217,000 for 2023-24 academic year. The California Student Aid Commission uses data from our 22 universities*, the FAFSA or CADAA to make awards. Any federal, state, institutional, or private grants and scholarships received will affect the value of your Middle-Class Scholarship.

Award Determination

Scholarship award amounts will vary by student and by school. Award amounts will be based on the cost of attendance for the school of the student's choice and the following program requirements: federal, state, institutional and private scholarship aid, a self-help student contribution of $7,898 (applied to all students), and a parent contribution for dependent students with a household income of over $100,000.

Newly admitted students deciding between campuses may be offered Middle-Class Scholarship 2.0 awards that are different values at each campus because each campus has their own unique cost of attendance. Campuses will include estimated awards in your financial aid package until final eligibility determinations are made by the California Student Aid Commission.

General Eligibility Requirements for Financial Aid at CSUF

To be considered for financial aid at CSUF, students must meet several general eligibility requirements:

Enrollment: Be enrolled or accepted for enrollment to an eligible program of study leading to a degree, certificate, or recognized credential offered by the institution.
High School Graduation: Be a California high school graduate or equivalent, A.A.
Selective Service Registration: Be registered for the Draft with the Selective Service or certify that he/she is not required to register. The federal Military Selective Service Act (the “Act”) requires most males residing in the United States to present themselves for registration with the Selective Service System within 30 days of their 18th birthday. Most males between the ages of 18 and 25 must be registered. Males born after Dec. 31, 1959, may be required to submit a statement of compliance with the Act and regulations in order to receive any grant, loan or work assistance under specified provisions of existing federal law. In California, students subject to the Act who fail to register are also ineligible to receive any need-based student grants funded by the state or a public postsecondary institution. Post Office, and many high schools have a staff member or teacher appointed as a Selective Service Registrar. Applicants for financial aid can also request that information provided on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) be used to register them with the Selective Service.
Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP): Students who are receiving financial aid must maintain satisfactory academic progress. Federal and state regulations governing student financial aid programs require the university to ensure that each student who is receiving financial aid maintains satisfactory academic progress (SAP) toward a degree objective. As required, maximum time frame, quantitative (pace) and qualitative (grade-point average) measures have been defined. The policy is subject to change based on revision mandated by federal law.

Detailed MCS Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Middle Class Scholarship (MCS) at CSUF, students must meet specific criteria set by the California Student Aid Commission. These criteria are subject to change based on state regulations, but generally include the following:

Residency: Be a California resident or meet the requirements for AB 540 student status. With the passage of Assembly Bill 131, students who meet the requirements for AB 540 student status are eligible for state student aid programs, including the State University Grant program, Cal Grant programs and Middle Class Scholarships. AB 540 students who complete a CDA Application and have a low expected family contribution will be considered for this grant, and would complete the California Dream Act Application in order to determine eligibility.
Income and Assets: Have a family income and household assets below a specified threshold. For the 2023-24 academic year, the family income and household asset ceiling is $217,000.
Enrollment: Be enrolled in at-least 6-units of coursework required for your degree.
Academic Progress: Students must also meet their CSU campus' Satisfactory Academic Progress policy.
Application Submission: Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or California Dream Act application by the May 2 deadline for the 2024-2025 academic year.

Maintaining Eligibility

To maintain eligibility for financial aid, including the MCS, at CSUF, students must adhere to certain standards:

Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP)

Federal and state regulations require that students receiving financial aid maintain satisfactory academic progress toward their degree objective. This includes:

Maximum Time Frame: At CSUF, all undergraduate programs are four-year programs but for purposes of defining the maximum time frame measurement for SAP, six full-time academic years of attempted coursework is allowed. In addition to the standard maximum timeframe, specific student aid programs may include a maximum number of units or years for which a student may maintain eligibility which may be different than the standard maximum timeframe. Max. Max. Students are not eligible to receive financial assistance at CSUF once they have reached or exceeded the maximum number of attempted units as described above. Undergraduate students are allowed a maximum of 180 units; graduate or post-baccalaureate students are allowed a maximum of 45 units. The unit maximum for undergraduates includes all units attempted at CSUF, as well as all transferable units attempted at other colleges and universities, except those in excess of the number accepted by CSUF for transfer credit. A unit cap appeal process is available for students who have reached the maximum.
Quantitative Measure (Pace): Students must earn at least 66.67 percent of attempted units to maintain pace. This is evaluated by comparing the student’s units at the completion of the add/drop period (the fourth week of school) with the units completed at the end of the term. Cumulative attempted units are compared with completed units to calculate the percentage of earned units. CSUF does not impose a minimum number of units each semester, although most financial aid programs require at least six units per semester (half-time status) to receive funds. The following grades are counted as successfully completed units: A, B, C, D, CR (credit). Grades counting as attempted, but not completed are F, NC (no credit), W (withdrawal), I (incomplete), WU (withdrawal unauthorized), and RP (report in progress). These grades negatively affect the quantitative and in some cases, the qualitative measures of SAP (F and WU grades). A repeated course in which the student initially received a D or better will count as units attempted and completed if the student receives a passing grade. Students may receive financial aid for one re-take of a previously passed course. Repeated coursework in which a student withdrew, received an official withdrawal, or failed will count as units attempted, but not completed.
Qualitative Measure (GPA): In order to maintain satisfactory academic progress, each student must meet minimum grade-point average standards: undergraduates must have a cumulative GPA of 1.5 or better after their second term, a cumulative GPA of 1.7 or better after their third term and cumulative GPA of 2.0 or better after their fourth term. Graduate students must maintain a 3.0 GPA and credential students must maintain a 2.5 GPA. Students falling below the minimum requirements at the time SAP is evaluated will be ineligible for financial aid.

SAP is evaluated annually, at the end of spring semester. If a student earns less than 66.7 percent of attempted units and/or does not meet the GPA standard, the student’s financial aid eligibility is terminated for the following year.

Impact of Withdrawal

Students who withdraw from coursework may be subject to return all or part of their Middle-Class Scholarship 2.0 award in addition to any other federal, state, or institutional aid received.

Additional Scholarship Opportunities at CSUF

In addition to the Middle Class Scholarship, CSUF offers a wide array of scholarships and awards to recognize outstanding achievement. Some scholarships are open to all students ("university scholarships"), while others have specific requirements related to major, career goals, or geographical location.

Examples of CSUF Scholarships:

MPA Alumni Scholarship Fund: Established by Claudia Keller, a 2017 graduate of the Master of Public Administration program at CSU Fullerton.
Salz-Pollak Endowed Scholarship: Created to support students pursuing academic excellence in the fields of English and Comparative Literature.
School of Accountancy Awards and Scholarships: The School of Accountancy extends 10-15 awards and scholarships to Accounting concentration juniors and seniors to recognize scholastic achievement.
Stacy Guzman Scholarship: Established by Stacy Guzman '18 to support first-generation undergraduates seeking to further their education in graduate school or medical school and/or obtain a professional degree in a STEM-related field.
Alan Emery Memorial Scholarship: Endowed by an anonymous donor in memory of Alan Emery, former Associate Professor of Sociology.
Alan V. Stang Scholarship: Established by Drs. Kristin Stang and Gordon Capp, along with Jeff Stang and Lisa McDaniel, in honor of Dr. Alan V. Stang.
Alfred and Louise Hewitt Memorial Scholarship: Established by Mr. Stephen Hewitt in memory of his parents, Alfred and Louise Hewitt. Mr. Alfred Hewitt was passionate about journalism and this scholarship will celebrate his witty journalistic soul.
CSUF Alumni Association Scholarship: Established by the Cal State Fullerton Alumni Association to support students continuing their education at CSUF.
Brandon Ruiz Award in American Studies: Established in 2023 with a generous donation from recent American Studies alumni Brandon Ruiz, the award is intended to celebrate undergraduate students who carry American studies’ emphasis on equity and social justice out of the classroom and into the community.
American Studies M.A. Scholarship: This award was established by an alum of the CSUF American Studies M.A. program who understands the need to reshape the way students at all levels engage educational content to be effective critical thinkers and leaders of the future.
Andy Paulin Athletic Training Scholarship: Established by Titan Athletic Training alumni, supporters, faculty, students, and staff to honor the distinguished career of Andy Paulin (’78).
APICS Orange County Scholarship: The scholarship is endowed by Orange County APICS, a professional association, in honor of past leaders and industry pioneers: Roly White, Gus Berger, and H. Peter Guertin.
Art Alliance Scholarship: The Art Alliance at Cal State Fullerton is a dynamic group dedicated to the support of the visual arts and the continuing education of its members.
Ashok and Purnima Patel Charity Fund Scholarship: Must be pursuing a B.A.
ASI/TSU Adult Re-entry Scholarship: This program was established in 1995 through the cooperation and financial support of Titan Shops and Associated Students (ASI) to acknowledge and support the unique challenges and dedication of adult re-entry students at Cal State Fullerton.
Carol Burke Memorial Scholarship: This scholarship was established in the spring of 2000 in the memory of Carol Burke.
Harvey A. McKee Distinguished Student Scholarship: The Harvey A. McKee Distinguished Student Scholarship was established in 2004 to recognize Mr. and the CSUF campus community.
ASI Milton A. Gordon Scholarship: This scholarship was established in the fall of 2023 in honor of Dr. Milton A. Gordon, the fourth president of California State University, Fullerton (1990-2012).
Virginia McGarvey Scholarship: This award was established in 1994 to honor Mrs. Virginia McGarvey, a prominent resident of Fullerton and a dedicated supporter of Cal State Fullerton, Associated Students, and the student body.
Asian American and Pacific Islander Civic Engagement Scholarship: The Asian American and Pacific Islander Civic Engagement Scholarship is administered through the Department of Asian American Studies (ASAM).
Barbara K. Weightman Scholarships: This scholarship is named for Barbara K. The Barbara Weightman Scholarships were established by Sherry Goddicksen and are generously funded by contributions from Geography alumni and faculty.
Bergstrom Family Scholarship: This endowed scholarship was created by Richard Bergstrom on behalf of the Bergstrom Family.
Bernhard J. and Vivian W. Strand Scholarship: This scholarship was named for Bernhard and Vivian Strand, who made life-long commitments to the public education system as both teachers and principals.
Beverly and Arnold Miller Scholarship: This scholarship is an endowed program established by Beverly and Arnold Miller with additional endowment support by their daughter Marla Miller and her husband David Kremer, and their family.
Bill Doomey Scholarship: This scholarship was established by the family and friends of Bill Doomey to honor his memory.
Dan Black Fellowship: This fellowship is generously funded by Dan Black through the ongoing commitment of the Black Family Trust to support students in the Physics program at California State University, Fullerton.
Bobbe Browning Memorial Scholarship: The Bobbe Browning Memorial Scholarship is for Adult Reentry students who are single parents and hold academic and professional promise.
Boeing Scholarship: This scholarship was established by Boeing to increase scholarship opportunities for students demonstrating academic promise and engagement in the College of Engineering and Computer Science (ECS).
Greg and Julie Christy Scholarship: This scholarship was established by Greg and Julie Christy to benefit an incoming or continuing student, at either the undergraduate or graduate level, who is a technical theatre and design major with a specific emphasis in lighting design.
Dr. Lee Broadbent Scholarship: This annual scholarship is funded by Dr. Lee Broadbent, Emeritus Faculty at Cal State Fullerton.
Courtney Brown and Ian Barraza Scholarship: This scholarship was named in honor of Courtney Brown and Ian Barraza, two exceptional alumni of the American Studies M.A. program who passed away tragically young.
Cal State DC Scholars Program Scholarship: This scholarship supports students participating in the Cal State DC Scholars Program, providing funding for student scholarships and miscellaneous expenses related to the Washington D.C. internship program.
Campos Scholarship: The Campos Scholarship was established by Campos EPS, a leader in energy infrastructure known for providing innovative solutions while strengthening the communities in which it operates.
Career Advancement Network (CAN) Scholarship: The Career Advancement Network (CAN) Scholarship is intended to recognize marketing students who have attended the department’s CAN event, during the current academic year.
Carli Christina Cummings Memorial Scholarship: This scholarship is named for Carli Christina Cummings (1993-2009) and was established in her memory by Dr. Irene Matz (Carli’s Aunt).
Carlos Mendoza Bombela Scholarship: This scholarship was created by Carlos Mendoza Bombela, a trailblazing nurse and first-generation college graduate.
Carmen Delphine Bayati Scholarship: This scholarship is named in memory of Carmen Delphine Bayati, a dedicated reentry student who graduated from Cal State Fullerton in 1993 with a B.A. in History.
Carroll Craik Scholarship: The Carroll Craik Scholarship was created in memory of Carroll Craik, who served the Department of Sociology at Cal State Fullerton for over 20 years as an Administrative Assistant.
Regina “Gina” Fales Scholarship: Regina “Gina” Fales (Class of 1994) was a member of the Cal State Fullerton Philanthropic Foundation Board of Governors for five years.

Other Financial Aid Programs

Besides the MCS and CSUF scholarships, students can explore other financial aid programs:

Read also: Affording Chaminade Middle School

Cal Grants: The State of California, through the California Student Aid Commission, administers grant programs for undergraduates seeking a post-secondary education. First-time applicants for Cal Grant funds are required to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the California Dream Act Application (CDA Application) no later than March 2 prior to the fall semester for which the grant will be used and verify their GPA by March 2. Cal Grant A is designed to assist low- and middle-income students with the cost of tuition and fees. Recipients are selected on the basis of financial need and grade-point average. Cal Grant B is available to low-income students with at least a 2.0 GPA. An access grant of up to $1,648 is provided to help with such educational expenses as books, transportation, and room and board. Additional access grant amounts may be available to students with qualifying dependents. See csac.ca.gov for details. Second-, third- and fourth-year Cal Grant B recipients generally receive assistance with tuition and fees in addition to the access grant.
Federal Pell Grant: The Federal Pell Grant program is the largest of all federal student grant programs and is the “foundation” of all forms of student assistance. Pell Grants are available to undergraduates who have not already obtained a bachelor’s degree. The amount of the grant is based on family contribution and may be awarded up to $7,395 for students enrolled full time. Payments are adjusted for less than full-time enrollment.
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG): The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant supplements other forms of financial assistance offered to an eligible student. Applicants must meet all other eligibility requirements. Although designed to meet the needs of undergraduate students with the greatest amount of need, FSEOG funds are provided to schools and colleges by the federal government. Awards to students are made according to the school’s awarding practices. Priority in awarding FSEOG funds must be given to Pell Grant recipients.
Federal Work-Study Program: The Federal Work-Study program provides students with employment opportunities both on and off campus. Eligibility for the program is based on the student’s demonstrated financial need. Students awarded Federal Work-Study receive an allocation of funds to be earned through part-time employment with an approved employer. The hourly wage will depend on the type of job. Students can take advantage of this employment opportunity to work in areas related to their studies or to perform community service work to minimize their student loan borrowing.
Federal Direct Loans: A Federal Direct Loan is a long-term loan that students borrow from federal government. Federal Direct Loans are available both as “subsidized” and “unsubsidized.” To qualify for a subsidized loan, the student must demonstrate financial need according to the federal need analysis formula. The federal government pays the interest on subsidized loans while the student is enrolled at least half-time and during the six-month grace period prior to repayment. Unsubsidized loans are available to all eligible students regardless of income and assets.
Direct PLUS Loans: The Direct PLUS Parent Loan program is a loan designed to assist parents in meeting the educational costs of their dependents. The parent is the borrower and responsible for repayment of the loan. Parents who do not have an adverse credit history may be eligible to borrow up to the total cost of the student’s education, minus any other financial aid received by the student. The Graduate PLUS loan interest rate is established on July 1 of each award year and fixed for the life of the loan. Students may complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or a California Dream Act Application (CDAA) beginning in October before the academic year begins.

Application Process

FAFSA or CDA Application: Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the California Dream Act Application (CDA Application) online.
CSUF Scholarship Application: Log into your CSUF portal and click on the “Scholarships” app on the left-hand side. Complete the Fall 2026 CSUF Scholarship Application within the Titan Scholarship Portal.
Supplemental Documents: Prepare any required supplemental essays or documents as specified by individual scholarships. For example, the Brandon Ruiz Award in American Studies requires a letter describing community work, while art scholarships may require a portfolio of artwork.

Student Rights and Responsibilities

All students are entitled to and are guaranteed fair and equitable treatment in the awarding of financial aid. In addition, there shall be no discrimination of any kind. All students have the right to receive full and open information about various financial aid programs and their eligibility. To ensure compliance with federal regulations to disclose information as required under the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA), as amended by the Higher Education Opportunity Act-2008, consumer information can be found on the campus homepage, fullerton.edu. Consumer information also is available in the Student Self Service area of the student portal.

All financial aid recipients agree to carry and complete a specific number of units each semester, to report graduation or withdrawal from the university, and to notify the Office of Financial Aid of any changes in their financial or marital status. Recipients of financial aid must use the funds only to meet education costs. Any other use of the funds is prohibited by law.

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