Dear high school students,

The UC Santa Cruz MESA Program is happy to share that this year's UC application is now available!  Students can begin to work on their application, but will not be permitted to submit it until November (Nov. 1st-Nov. 30th). Also, there has been a big change to the application and there is no longer an essay requirement! Instead, students are being asked to respond to four Personal Insight Questions.  

We encourage you to visit the links below to learn about the UC application requirements, process, to review a few tips that will help you become a more competitive applicant for the University of California, and to learn about financial aid.  If you have any questions, please speak with your teachers, academic counselors, or MESA advisor.

Review the links below before you begin your UC Application
Presenting Yourself on the UC Application
Tips for the UC Application

Review the links below when you are ready to begin your UC Application
Introduction to the Personal Insight Questions (video)
The Personal Insight Questions
The UC Application

Review the links below when you are ready to apply for financial aid
Introduction to Financial Aid (video)
Eligibility for Federal Student Aid 
Changes to the FAFSA

Follow the steps below to finance your college degree with the FAFSA application:

1. Get your FSA ID 
2. Ask your parent or guardian to request their FSA ID 
3. Complete the FAFSA application
4. Check your Cal-Grant Eligibility

Review the links below to learn about financial aid options for AB-540 students
California Dream Act Information
California Dream Act Application
CA Dream Act Frequently Asked Questions Resources for Parents and Students
Steps to be considered for financial aid

Review the links below to review information about the California Dream Act
 
Resources for AB-540 students
Tips for Completing the CA Dream Act application (chart)