Frequently Asked Questions

• What if my childcare is more than what the access grant provides?

  If you childcare expenses exceed the amount provided by the Access Grant, you may request a Cost of Attendance (COA) Appeal. Please note that a COA Appeal does not provide additional grant aid; however, it may increase your budget to allow for additional loan eligibility. 

  How to Request:

  1. Log into ucr.studentforms.com.
  2. Complete the PJ Special Circumstance - COA Appeal form.
  3. Upload support documentation, such as receipts, to verify your expenses.
• What is priority registration?

  Priority registration allows student parents (and other select groups) to register for classes before the general student body. Priority registration offers student parents the opportunity to create class schedules that better accommodate childcare, work, and family obligations, reducing potential barriers to completing their education successfully and on time.

• Are these resources only available to women/mothers?

  No. Priority registration and Access Grant are available for any student with children.

• I did not receive the Confirmation of Eligibility for Students with Children, but I have a Dependent under the age of 17. Where can I find the form?

  The Office of Financial Aid identifies students with dependents using FAFSA or CADAA data. A student is flagged if they report "the student has children" under Unusual Circumstances or if an independent student reports a Family Size of two or more.

  If you have a dependent, but did not receive the Confirmation of Eligibility for Students with Children form, please email finaid@ucr.edu. For faster processing, use the subject line:

  Requesting Confirmation of Eligibility for Student with Children

  In the body of your email, include your:

  • Full name
  • Student ID number
• What if I provide for my younger siblings? Do they count as dependents?

  A sibling can only count as your dependent if you have legal court documentation proving guardianship or adoption. 

• What additional resources are available if I need access to food or housing?

  UCR students can contact UCR Basic Needs for assistance with housing and/or groceries.

• How can I contact someone from the Financial Aid office?

  Students can visit the Highlander One-Stop Shop to speak with a financial aid representative. Appointments have priority, but walk-ins are always welcome. Click here to book an in-person or virtual appointment.

• What if I become a parent/guardian after I submit my FAFSA/CADAA?

  If you become a parent/guardian after you submit your FAFSA/CADAA, you can gain priority registration by reaching out to the Financial Aid Office. Additional grant funding will not be available until the next academic year when your next FAFSA/CADAA is submitted.