Reminder to students: Cal Grant applications due March 2

High school seniors or recent graduates who meet eligibility and financial requirements were reminded on Wednesday they have until March 2 to apply for up to $9,700 per year to attend a California public college or university.

Cal Grants also cover tuition and fees at some private and independent colleges or career schools, and can also help students pay for textbooks, living expenses and equipment for community college and career technical education.

Applicants must fill out and submit two forms - a Free Application or Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, and a Cal Grant GPA Verification Form, according to the California Student Aid Commission, which administers the grant program.

Help with the forms is available at more than 500 “Cash for College” workshops, which are conducted throughout the state during the Cal Grant application window from Jan. 1 until March 2.

At the workshops, applicants receive assistance completing the required forms. High school seniors who attend workshops could qualify for extra scholarships from $1,000 to $4,000, depending on the workshop location.

Students can visit www.calgrants.org to locate a workshop in their area, or call 888-CA-GRANT (888-224-7268).

“In spite of California’s current economic challenges, it is evident that the Legislature places a high priority on the future prosperity of the state by funding the Cal Grant programs,” said Diana Fuentes-Michel, executive director of the California Student Aid Commission.