1. The majority of UC’s California undergrads get financial aid.
A full 70 percent of UC’s California undergrads get grants and scholarships — the average amount is about $20K. We’re not talking loans. This is money for school that doesn’t need to be paid back.
2. UC tuition is fully covered for more than half of California students.
That’s no typo. For most in-state students, if your household income is $100K or less, your UC tuition payment is ZERO. In fact, more than 50 percent of UC’s California undergrads pay no tuition at all.
3. A debt-free path is possible.
Not only do a majority of California undergrads get help with tuition, but more than half of the Class of 2022 graduated completely debt-free, without any student loans at all.
If you do take out loans, know that UC students borrow far less than the national average. And special low-interest loans are available to both parents and students.
4. There’s help for middle-class families too.
Costs are on the rise for just about everything, and middle-income families are feeling the pinch. Through its Middle-Class Scholarship program, California provides college dollars for families with annual incomes up to $234K.
5. You’re likely to get money. And more than you realize.
Lots of college applicants don’t think they’ll qualify for aid. But UC has one of the best financial aid programs in the country, and it’s a good bet you’ll be pleasantly surprised. Another surprise: Many financial aid applicants get more than they expected.
6. You can count on tuition staying flat.
There are no surprises with UC tuition. What you pay as a first-year is likely to be the same thing you’ll pay as a senior, making it easier to plan and budget.
7. Financial aid goes beyond tuition.
For California students, the average undergrad financial aid award covers more than tuition, providing about $4,500 more in grants and scholarships to help with costs like food, housing and living expenses.
8. There’s money for undocumented students, too.
Everyone should have access to education. If you’re an undocumented Californian, you may be eligible for state and UC dollars through the California Dream Act.
9. UC is an investment with a high return.
UC graduates out-earn other California college grads and take in 84 percent more in lifetime earnings than their peers without degrees.
Don’t just take our word for it: All nine UC undergraduate campuses just earned top marks for their combination of excellence and affordability from Money magazine. With all the economic, social and personal advantages that come with a UC degree, it’s a value that’s hard to beat.
