Students have until Sept. 2 to submit a FAFSA or California Dream Act Application and remain eligible for a Cal Grant. (photo courtesy of the California Student Aid Commission)

The Los Angeles Unified School District has been recognized by the California Student Aid Commission as the No. 1 school district in the state for year-over-year improvement in financial aid applications. The designation underscores the district’s ongoing commitment to expanding college access and opportunity for all students.

According to CSAC, the LAUSD recorded the largest increase in completed Free Application for Federal Student Aid forms, known as FAFSA, and California Dream Act Application submissions among California school districts compared with the previous year.

The recognition comes as California awarded nearly 10,000 more Cal Grants to the class of 2026 than to the previous graduating class, reflecting increased access to financial aid for students across the state.

“Applying for financial aid is one of the most important steps a student can take on their path to college,” LAUSD Superintendent Andrés Chait said. “This recognition reflects the dedication of our counselors, school staff, students and families who worked together to ensure more graduates can pursue higher education with the financial support they deserve. We are proud to lead California in helping students turn their college aspirations into reality.”

The Los Angeles Unified School District has prioritized financial aid completion through school-based outreach, family workshops, individualized counseling and targeted support to ensure every graduating senior understands the financial resources available to them.

“This achievement is the result of an extraordinary team effort across our schools,” LAUSD Chief Academic Officer Pia Sadaqatmal said. “Our counselors and college advisors work tirelessly to remove barriers, answer questions and help families navigate what can often feel like a complicated process. Every completed financial aid application opens doors to opportunities that can change a student’s future.”

Eligible students can still apply for financial aid. Students planning to attend a California Community College have until Sept. 2 to submit a FAFSA or California Dream Act Application and remain eligible for a Cal Grant for the 2026-27 academic year. The Los Angeles Unified School District encourages all eligible students who have not yet applied to take advantage of the opportunity.

For information, visit csac.ca.gov/cal-grant.