Financial Aid Workshops

If you need help completing your 2023-2024 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or California Dream Act Application, register for zoom session or attend an in-person session. Bring the following items:

• Federal Student Aid (FSA) user ID and password (for FAFSA filers)
• Personal Identification Number (for CA Dream Act filers)
• 2021 Tax Return (Form 1040) or W2s (if applicable)

Banking 101

Budgeting 101

During this session you’ll learn smart tips for managing your money while in school. You’ll gain confidence in your financial skills and the knowledge you need to create a budget and savings plan

Don’t Be Rash! Save Your Cash!

A review of the five building blocks for managing and growing your money. Also, learn how to use a compound interest and savings calculator tool for your financial planning!

I Borrowed A Student Loan – What Happens Next?

This session will help new and current borrowers:

• Learn the basics about federal student loans
• Understand more about current policy changes
• Learn about loan repayment options, what to do while you are in school and after you graduate
• Learn how to manage your loan debt and avoid loan default and damaging your credit

Identity Theft and How to Avoid It

Identity theft can be one of the most devastating things that can happen to an individual. It can damage your credit status and your reputation and can take a significant amount of your time to restore your name and credit standing.

During this session, you will learn:

• What identity theft is and how to identify it
• Hear about the steps necessary to repair your identity in the event that it is stolen
• Hear tips and recommendations on how to avoid identity theft

Money Basics

Let's discuss how to build your financial health; use a bank or credit union; money management; what you should know about insurance, federal income taxes, and how to prepare for retirement.

Navigating the FINANCES Section of Your myCSUDH Student Center

Learn how to navigate the FINANCES section of your Student Center and understand what each link means for you!

Join us to learn:

• How to review your student account – the charges, payments, and refunds
• How to use and review the Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) link
• How does Financial Aid work for the Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer terms

SCHOLARSHIPS: Finding Free Money for College

Did you know there are scholarships for almost any hobby, talent, interest, or sport?  Join us to learn more about how to search and apply for scholarships.

This session will review:

• The importance and ease of using a scholarship search engine
• The variety of scholarship resources
• Creating a winning scholarship essay
• Key tips on applying for scholarships

Understanding Credit

Learn the basics on credit with a focus on student loans, credit cards, FICO® Scores and their importance, credit reports, credit monitoring, credit knowledge, financial health tips, and the importance of establishing and maintaining a strong credit score.

A Money Talk with the Financial Aid & Scholarships Office

Have a chat with a Financial Aid Specialist regarding the topics below:

• Upcoming changes to the FAFSA & CA Dream Applications
• The importance of completing your financial aid application early
• Basic Money Management Tips
• Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) - What is it and why it matters