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Grants and Scholarships

Money bag books and graduation cap

 

Paying for College, Now and Later

Attending college doesn’t have to mean taking on massive debt. Many students receive financial aid, grants, and scholarships that help make college more affordable. Whether you’re just starting at community college or preparing to transfer to a four-year university, there are programs designed to support you.

We encourage San Diego City College students to explore financial aid opportunities and apply for grants and scholarships throughout their educational journey - especially when preparing to transfer.

Note: San Diego City College does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the information provided. Students are encouraged to verify all details, including deadlines and eligibility criteria, directly with the grant/scholarship provider.

Disclaimer: San Diego City College and the Transfer Center are not affiliated with each of the scholarship programs listed on this page. Inclusion does not imply endorsement of the values, missions, or views of these entities. Students are encouraged to carefully review each opportunity and use their best judgment when applying. Information provided for informational purposes only.

Jack Kent Cooke Scholarship Now Open

Paying for College Now

As a current San Diego City College student, you may qualify for programs that help reduce or fully cover your tuition and fees. These include the California College Promise Grant, the San Diego Promise Program, and additional state and federal financial aid. Applying for the FAFSA or California Dream Act Application (CADAA) each year ensures you’re considered for the full range of available support.

Community college students should complete the FAFSA or California Dream Act Application (CADAA) each year. Submitting one of these applications determines your eligibility for:

  • California College Promise Grant (CCPG)
  • Pell Grants
  • Cal Grants
  • Work-study programs
  • Scholarships at City College and your future transfer university

Start your FAFSA or CADAA application.

Visit the San Diego City College Financial Aid & Scholarships Page for additional information.

Formerly known as the BOG Fee Waiver, the CCPG waives enrollment fees for eligible California residents attending a community college. It’s the most common form of tuition assistance at San Diego City College. Students who apply for financial aid through the FAFSA or CADAA will automatically be considered for the CCPG. For more information visit the Financial Aid program page.

In 2025, San Diego City College through its partnerships, awarded approximately $280,000 in scholarships to students! The San Diego City College Scholarship cycle usually opens during the winter and runs through the early part of the spring semester. Please visit the San Diego City College Scholarships Page for opportunities available to our students.

The San Diego Promise offers two years of free tuition (fall and spring) at San Diego City College for first-time, full-time and returning SDCCD college students, and students who meet other criteria.

The program also includes personalized counseling and support to help you succeed. To learn more about eligibility and how to apply, visit the San Diego Promise Program page.

 


Funding Your Education After City College

As you prepare to transfer, it’s important to know what forms of financial aid may be available to help you fund your future university. In addition to San Diego City College Scholarships, there are a variety of other scholarship opportunities available for you to consider! 

The Assistance League of San Diego Upper Division Scholarship  offers scholarships for full-time students who have completed community college and are transitioning to an accredited college or university as a junior in pursuit of a four-year degree. Scholarship awards are between $3000-$10,000.

Several of our own City College students have been recipients of this award, including a $10,000 scholarship winner!

Learn more about the Assistance League Scholarships.

This highly selective national scholarship awards up to $55,000 per year for up to two-three years to community college students transferring to a four-year university. The scholarship also provides academic advising, opportunities for internships, and a supportive community of scholars.

San Diego City College's Tatiana Butte was the recipient of this prestigious scholarshp a few years ago!

Learn more about the Jack Kent Cooke Undergraduate Scholarship.

Provides aid to students with family incomes up to $226,000 who plan to attend a University of California (UC), California State University (CSU) or California Community College Bachelor’s degree program, who do not qualify for full need-based aid.

Learn more about the Middle Class Scholarship Program.

National Unversity has a variety of scholarships available for transfer-bound students including a tuition reduction for students who earn an Associate Degree for Transfer from a California Community College. With the ADT tuition reduction, National University tuition is comparable to CSU tuitition rates.

Learn more about National University scholarships.

The San Diego Foundation offers a wide range of scholarships to local students through a single, common application. Scholarships are available for community college students, including those planning to transfer, and many are based on financial need, field of study, or personal background.

Learn more about the San Diego Foundation Scholarships.

Covers UC systemwide tuition and fees for California residents with total family incomes under $100,000. Must be eligible for financial aid.

Learn more about the UC Blue and Gold Opportunity Plan.

Most UC, CSU, and private universities offer a combination of need-based and merit-based institutional aid. In some cases, students are automatically considered for these opportunities when they apply for admission and submit the FAFSA or CADAA. Some colleges may also use information from your Personal Statement or Personal Insight Questions to determine eligibility for certain scholarships or awards.

Offered by the University of San Diego, the full tuition scholarships support outstanding students transferring from a San Diego Community College District School to USD. Named in honor of former SDCCD Chancellor Dr. Constance M. Carroll, the award recognizes academic excellence and leadership potential.

Learn more about the Chancellor Carroll Trailblazer Scholarship.

 


Additional Grants & Scholarships to Explore

San Diego City College students have earned several of the scholarships listed below in recent years. We encourage you to explore these opportunities and consider applying - you may be more competitive than you think!