City College students wait for student aid
“Unforeseen technical issues” cited as the cause for the delay.
Students with questions regarding financial aid are encouraged to visit the Financial Aid Office. Photo by Aurora Ruvalcaba
September 24, 2019
San Diego City College students are dealing with student aid delays due to unforeseen technical difficulties.
“As of Sept. 9, … the Cal Grant is currently on hold for two to three weeks for technical difficulties,” wrote the San Diego Community College District in an email.
Students were notified that, “If you meet all eligibility criteria for Cal Grant B or C, you will not see the award on your Student Portal nor in your Financial Aid award letter at this time.”
The email also stated that the Cal Grant award disbursement date is estimated to be no later than Oct. 4.
“(It is a known) multiweek process, but it all depends on the time you file and the following processing time,” said Itza Vilaboy, a student services assistant in the Financial Aid Office.
The Fall 2019 Student Success Completion Grant, which is determined by Cal Grant eligibility, has also been affected and is expected to be determined by Oct. 7, with an anticipated disbursement date of Oct. 18.
“Circumstances change, fundings can change, schools change,” Vilaboy said.
“(Dealing with) the communication guidelines, I encourage them to come into the Financial Aid Office or check SDCCD accounts (for more information).”
Although the Cal Grant is a part of a student’s financial aid package, the campus Financial Aid Office does not process Cal Grant awards.
“The emails are related to the Cal Grant, not financial aid,” Vilaboy said. “It is not a delay. The office disburses before every semester. I encourage students to stay tuned to the financial aid website. Offices always disburse 30 days into the semester.”
The Financial Aid Office is open on campus Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Fridays from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The Department of Education disperses the financial aid checks, as it is related to the federal government. Cal Grant and fee waivers, are all placed under state fees.
If you are interested in more information, visit fafsa.ed.gov.
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As reported in the September 24, 2019 print issue of City Times.
