Financial Aid
When does the 2025-2026 FAFSA application close?
June 30, 2026
What can a counselor help students with? (There are multiple responses to this one.)
Ed plans, transfer info, academic goals, personal issues, SAP appeals, major change, & petitions
What does ARC stand for, and what do they do/help with?
Accessibility Resource Center
The A.R.C. offers academic accommodations, disability management, and support services as well as individualized career, academic, and personal counseling for students with disabilities and learning differences.
What does MESA stand for, and what do they assist with?
Math, Engineering & Science Achievement
The MESA program provides students with holistic support and the resources needed to achieve academic success, paving the way for exciting careers in the STEM fields.
What does FYS stand for, and what services do they offer?
First Year Services. They assist with the GCCP (2 years free college), Assessment, & FYE.
How often do students apply for FAFSA?
Every Year.
The application is typically published around Oct/Nov and closed in June of the same academic year.
How do students make a counseling appointment?
You will get bonus points in my heart if you can answer this with FYE-specific.
Via the Counseling website or in person at the Counseling Office
FYE website, calling (619) 644 - 7200, or in person with the FYE front Desk
Where can students get help with finding a job on or off campus?
Career Services
Say hi to my friend Garret over there.
A student tells you their car has a flat tire in the parking lot, and they don’t know what to do. How do you help them?
What is CAPS
You guide them to Campus and Parking Services (CAPS). They are located in building 57 by the parking structure.
A student needs help with pre-requisite clearance. Where do you direct them?
The Assessment Center (FYS Desk)
What is the California College Promise Grant, and who qualifies?
A grant that covers tuition for eligible CA residents
How many cats does Kumail have?
6 /ᐠ｡ꞈ｡ᐟ\
What support does CalWORKs provide?
Assistance for students receiving public assistance (like cash aid). They provide aid for families, and there have to be children in the home for this program.
Do you need a parking pass for Fall 2025, and where can you obtain one?
Yes :(
You can purchase the parking pass on your self-service account.
A student asks, “Where can I find a quiet space to study with Wi-Fi?". How do you help them?
What is Tech Mall and Library (Bldg. 70)
What semesters does the GCCP cover tuition for?
FALL & SPRING
No Summer :(
What’s the difference between a counselor and a Peer Mentor?
You get paid less because you do not have your B.A. and M.A. ;P JK
Counselors give academic guidance; Peer Mentors provide broader student support
A student needs urgent food assistance. Where can they go?
Basic Needs Center
A student is struggling mentally and emotionally. Where do you send them?
Health & Wellness Center
A student comes to you with a cast on their dominant arm and says they’re worried about taking notes and completing timed exams. -- How do you help them?
What is A.R.C
Who do you refer a student to if they need help filling out FAFSA/Dream Act or have questions about their award?
THE ... FINANCIAL AID ... OFFICE
What are the two different ed plans, and what do their acronyms stand for?
CEP - Comprehensive Educational Plan
AEP - Abbreviated Educational Plan
What does the Health & Wellness Center offer beyond mental health?
Nurse visits, wellness workshops, and COVID-19 test kits, etc.
What student service will pay for your unpaid internship?
What is MESA
Unfortunately, this is only for MESA-eligible students.
How would a mentor make a potentially undocumented student feel safe?
Financial Aid or Dream Center (if available), or a counselor