Ways to Help Pay for College

There are many programs that can help you pay for your tuition, books, and living expenses. These options can be need-based or non-need-based. Read more...

The most common types of financial aid are:

Grants Government provided aid for eligible students. Does not need to be repaid.
Loans Government provided aid for eligible students. Must be repaid after a set time.
Scholarships Government or privately provided aid for eligible students based on academic or other achievement. Does not need to be repaid.
Waivers Enrollment fees can be waived for eligible students.
Work-study There are part time jobs available on campus for eligible students.

General eligibility for financial aid:

  • Have a high school diploma or recognized equivalent.
  • Be a U.S. Citizen, or an eligible non-citizen (except for some California state aid programs).
  • Have a valid social security number (except for some California state aid programs).
  • Be enrolled in a financial aid eligible program of study leading to a degree or certificate or transfer.
  • May not be in default of any federal student loan or owe a refund of any federal grant.
  • Male students must have registered with Selective Service between ages 18-25.
  • Submit all required forms and documents requested by the Financial Aid Office.
  • Meet requirements outlined in Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy.
  • Not have a conviction for a drug-related crime (possession or sales) that occurred when receiving federal aid.
  • Demonstrate financial need (except for unsubsidized loans) through the Free Application of Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
  • Use federal aid funds received for educational purposes.

California College Promise Grant

The California Promise Grant covers the cost of your tuition fees.

Full Time Free Tuition Award

As part of our College Promise effort, DVC offers a Full Time Free Tuition program. By completing at least 12 units this term and completing an educational plan, you could receive a refund of your tuition!

Pell Grant

The Pell Grant is awarded to students based on financial need only.

FSEOG

The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant is for students who are also eligible for the Pell Grant and are in need of additional aid.

Cal Grant

Several types of Cal Grants are available based on need and achievement.

Student Success Completion Grant

The Student Success Completion Grant is available to Cal Grant B recipients that are enrolled full-time.

Chafee Grant

The Chafee Grant is given to current and former foster youth.

Scholarships

Many scholarships are available for all students based on academics or other personal achievements.

Student loans

Student loans are available to most students and have low interest rates.

Work-Study (find a job on campus)

There are jobs available on campus for eligible students.


All financial aid students are required to check their DVC student email account through InSite on a regular basis in order to receive notifications, file status updates, announcements, and further instructions from the Financial Aid Office. Follow the link for instructions on how to check your financial aid status through InSite.

Financial Aid school codes:

  • DVC FAFSA Federal School Code: 001191
  • DVC CA DREAM Act Application School Code: 00119100

Contact Financial Aid

Contact

Telephone: 925-969-2009

Email: financialaid@dvc.edu

Fax: 925-691-1132 

Office location: SSC building, first floor Pleasant Hill campus map

Office location

Admissions and Records, San Ramon campus map