Colleges must set a policy for estimating and adjusting student costs to keep Cal Grants
To stay eligible for Cal Grant students, a college must adopt a cost of attendance policy that follows federal standards by the start of the 2027-28 academic year, letting students ask for higher estimates for costs such as housing, a computer, transportation or child care.
Who it affects
Colleges that take Cal Grants and the students who get them
When
July 1, 2027 is a deadline set in the law.
- : Signed into law
- : Law takes effect
- : Deadline: colleges must have a cost of attendance adjustment policy (the law says by the start of the 2027-28 academic year and sets no calendar day; California's academic year formally begins July 1)
Official text
California AB 2251: Student financial aid: Cal Grant Program: cost of attendance.
On California Legislative Information. The official text is what counts; read it before you act.
Not legal advice. Plain-English summaries to help you find what changes and when. Not legal advice: read the official text, and ask a lawyer about your situation.