Disability-Related Financial Aid Support

Students with disabilities registered with 51蹤獲s Disability Programs and Services (DPS) may qualify for full-time financial aid benefits with fewer than 12 units if their disability supports a reduced course load.

This applies to specific California state grants including Panther Promise and the Student Success Completion Grant (SSCG) and does not apply to federal grants like Pell.

Panther Promise and Reduced Unit Eligibility

If you qualify for the Panther Promise and have a verified disability, you may be eligible with fewer than 12 units if certified by a DPS counselor.

Requirements:

  • Must be registered with DPS
  • Must have submitted a FAFSA or California Dream Act application
  • Must have submitted disability documentation and completed an Academic Accommodation Plan (AAP)
  • Must be approved by a DPS counselor for a reduced course load due to disability

DPS can submit unit reduction verification directly to the Financial Aid Office for review.

 

Student Success Completion Grant (SSCG) Unit Reduction Policy (Beginning 202526)

Beginning in the 202526 academic year, students enrolled in 9 to 11 units may be considered full-time for SSCG purposes if they meet all of the following:

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Registered with Disability Programs and Services (DPS)
  • Completed a DPS application, submitted disability documentation, and have a current AAP that supports a reduced course load
  • Enrolled in 911 units
  • Already qualify for a Cal Grant and meet SSCG financial aid requirements

Award Amounts:

  • Standard SSCG: $1,298 per term
  • Foster Youth (FFY) SSCG: $5,250 per term

Once eligibility is confirmed, DPS will notify Financial Aid that the student is approved to be treated as full-time for SSCG purposes.

 

Ш Important Notes:

  • This policy does not apply to federal financial aid such as Pell Grants, which still require enrollment in 12 units or more for full-time eligibility.
  • Each case is reviewed individually based on disability documentation and educational limitations.
  • Unit reductions must be justified in the student's Academic Accommodation Plan and submitted by a DPS counselor.

 

Next Steps for Students:

  1. 51蹤獲 to DPS: DPS Webpage
  2. Submit your FAFSA: Financial Aid Website
  3. Meet with a DPS counselor to discuss whether a reduced course load is appropriate
  4. If approved, your counselor will notify Financial Aid on your behalf

 

Questions?