Financial Resources
Balancing academic and family responsibilities can present unique financial challenges. This section is designed to connect you with funding opportunities and support services that can help reduce financial stress and promote academic success.
CalWORKS Program
CalWORKs is the California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids program administered through the Department of Public Social Services. The social service program provides benefits (financial assistance, child care, transportation, and more) to families with minor children.
The program serves all counties in the state and is operated locally by county public social services office. To find out if you are eligible or to enroll in the program please refer to the Department of Social Services in your county:
ºÚÁÏÍø Eligibility Requirements:
- Enrolled in the CalWORKs program through your respective county public social services office.
- Enrolled at California State University, Long Beach
- Fill out the
- Complete the CalWORKs Intake Assessment
- Attend the CalWORKs program orientation
If you need assistance with the required forms or have any questions, please contact Taylor Davies, CalWORKs Coordinator, Taylor.Davies@csulb.edu in Basic Needs.
Cost of Attendance (COA) Adjustment for Student Parents
ºÚÁÏÍø recognizes that student parents often have additional education-related expenses, including childcare and dependent care, that may not be fully reflected in the standard Cost of Attendance (COA). ºÚÁÏÍø’s Cost of Attendance Adjustment Policy allows eligible students to request a review of their financial aid cost of attendance based on documented, actual expenses.
If approved, a COA adjustment may increase your financial aid cost of attendance and help you access additional aid to better support your academic journey while caring for your family.
Eligible expenses may include childcare/dependent care, major medical costs, or required academic expenses such as computer purchase. Routine personal expenses (such as car payments or car insurance) are generally not eligible.
Student parents and other students with additional costs should submit a request if these expenses are not currently considered in their academic year COA. For more information go to Financial Aid section of the Enrollment Services forms page.
Visit Enrollment Services Forms Page
On-Campus Services and Programs for Students with Children
ºÚÁÏÍø offers a variety of on-campus resources designed to support student parents in achieving their academic, professional, and personal goals. Explore opportunities that can help ease financial stress, build career skills, and connect you with meaningful employment while you complete your degree.
Unexpected expenses can arise at any time. Student Emergency Grants may provide short-term financial assistance to help student parents navigate urgent situations and remain on track academically.
A variety of scholarships are available to support students with children and those experiencing financial need. These opportunities can help reduce the cost of attendance and provide additional financial stability throughout your academic journey.
CareerLINK connects students with flexible employment opportunities that fit around class schedules and family responsibilities. Search for part-time roles, internships, and career-building experiences both on and off campus.
offers student employment opportunities that foster leadership development, professional growth, and community engagement — all within a supportive campus environment.
Paid internships help student parents build valuable career skills, expand professional networks, and strengthen post-graduation opportunities. Gain hands-on experience in your field while earning income.
Beach Shops provides a range of on-campus job opportunities in retail, dining, and campus services. These roles often offer flexible scheduling to help students balance work, school, and family commitments.
Off-Campus Services and Programs for Students with Children
The following resources are offered by off-campus programs that are not affiliated nor endorsed by ºÚÁÏÍø. Please contact them directly for updated information on eligibility.
If you have low income and work, you may qualify for the (CalEITC). This credit gives you a refund or reduces your tax owed.
If you qualify for the California Earned Income Tax Credit (CalEITC) and have a child under the age of 6, you may also qualify for the (YCTC).
Together, these state credits can put hundreds or even thousands of dollars in your pocket.
Filing your state tax return is required to claim both of these credits.
