The entire process may take 1-3 months, so apply early!

For U.S. Citizens and Permanent Legal Residents (Green Card Holders, Refugee, etc.)

  • Go to the FAFSA website
    • 2024-2025 For Fall 2024, Spring and Summer 2025
    • 2025-2026 For Fall 2025, Spring and Summer 2026
    • College of San Mateo Federal School code is 001181
  • FSA ID - Create a Username and Password if you don't already have one
 

For AB540 and Undocumented Students Only

Please allow 1-2 weeks for your application to be processed and sent to the college. You will then receive two emails:

  1. First from the Dept. of Education or California Student Aid Commission with your Student Aid Report (SAR)
    • Review SAR for accuracy and read "Comment Codes"
    • If corrections are made, allow 1-2 weeks to process corrected information
  2. Second from the Financial Aid office confirming receipt of your FAFSA
    • Instructions are given to check the status on WebSMART
  • Check WebSMART to see what documents are required
  • Please see reverse side for step-by-step instructions
  • If no requirements are listed, please contact the Financial Aid Office, Building 10
  • Files are reviewed in order of date received
  • During the file review process, additional documents may be requested
  • Check your "my.smccd.edu" email regularly for notifications
  • Files will not be reviewed until all required documents are submitted
Please Note: Entire process may take a minimum 4-6 weeks (longer if corrections are needed during start of semester)
  • Eligible students will be notified by email to their "my.smccd.edu" account
  • Check WebSMART for the results of your financial aid award
  • Go to "My Award Information" to view types and amount of award
  • Note: If no awards are listed, please contact the Financial Aid Office, Building 10