Frequently Asked Questions

What is College Access Foundation of California? 

College Access Foundation of California was created in 2005 to help qualified students in California who have financial need attend college.   We provide scholarship grants to programs and organizations that help young adults prepare for college and connect them to mentoring and other services once they enroll.  Since its inception, the Foundation has awarded over $48 million in grants to community-based organizations statewide.  

Who receives grants from the Foundation? 

Foundation grants are awarded to programs and organizations that help young adults prepare for and enroll in college.  These organizations use Foundation grants to offer scholarships to students with financial need.

Who receives scholarships from these nonprofits? 

Organizations typically provide scholarships to students in their respective programs or communities who want to attend college and have financial need.  

How can my organization apply for a grant? 

Please see our Grant Application Guidelines for information on how to apply.

Which organizations have received grants from College Access Foundation? 

Click here for a list of Foundation grant recipients.

I am a parent/student interested in information on college financing. Can College Access Foundation of California help? 

College Access Foundation of California does not award scholarships directly to students, but provides funds to organizations that in turn offer scholarships.  Parents and students can review organizations that have received Foundation grants here and find other resources.

Can an individual apply for a scholarship? 

College Access Foundation of California provides grants to tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organizations.  Individuals should not apply directly to the Foundation for scholarships.