Free community college for students - All Community Colleges in California offer free tuition for the first year. Students must complete a FAFSA or Dream Act Application to qualify. Other requirements include minimum enrollment in 12 units and students must earn C or better in college classes. 

AB 469 - Under new state law AB 469, high school seniors will be required to complete and submit either the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or California Dream Act Application (CADAA) or an opt-out form.  

When should I file a FAFSA? In general, the amount of available aid is limited, so the best time to apply for it is as soon as possible. Currently, the soonest a FAFSA application can be filed with the Department of Education is on the October 1st preceding the academic year that you are requesting financial aid for. 

FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) - Students who are U.S. citizens, permanent residents, eligible non-citizens, or T Visa holders can complete the FAFSA online at fafsa.gov. The FAFSA can help students pay for college or career school, and can also determine eligibility for aid like scholarships, grants, and work-study. Some private scholarships also require a FAFSA as part of their application process. https://www.californiacolleges.edu/#/financial-aid