What is the Middle Class Scholarship (MCS) at Sac State?
The Middle Class Scholarship (MCS) is a state-funded grant designed to support low- to middle-income undergraduate and teaching‑credential students attending California State University, Sacramento (Sac State), as well as other CSU, UC, and eligible CCC campuses. Unlike loans, MCS does not need to be repaid.
Who qualifies for MCS?
To be eligible:
- Be a California resident (or AB 540/eligible nonresident for tuition purposes)
- Be an undergraduate or teaching‑credential student at Sac State
- Meet income and asset limits—for example, families earning up to $234,000 for the July 2025–June 2026 year
- Maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) and be enrolled in at least six units
- Not be in default on student loans or incarcerated
For foster youth, the scholarship may cover the full cost of attendance after other aid has been applied
How much is the Middle Class Scholarship at Sac State?
- The amount varies per student, depending on the cost of attendance (COA) at Sac State, the expected family contribution, and other grants or scholarships received.
- Students typically receive a self-help contribution requirement of approximately $7,898, which affects the scholarship calculation
- Award amounts fluctuate annually and are subject to available state funding and eligibility levels
How long can you receive MCS?
Eligible students can receive MCS for up to:
- 8 semesters or 12 quarters, depending on education level at first award
- Generally aligns with four years of full-time study.
Application process & deadlines
No separate application is needed—just submit:
- FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid), or
- California Dream Act Application (CADAA) by the priority deadline
- For 2025–2026: April 2, 2025
- For 2024–2025: July 2, 2024
Sac State’s priority application deadline is May 2 for FAFSA or CADAA for 2024–2025, with supporting documentation due by June 1
After application:
- The California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) determines eligibility and notifies students via the WebGrants 4 Students portal by mid-to-late August
- On the Sac State side, disbursement typically occurs after census, once financial aid holds are cleared
Disbursement timing & potential delays
Students report:
“Students should expect their Middle Class Scholarship after the semester’s census date.”
– Roughly Sep 25 (fall) and Feb 17 (spring)
However, system delays—such as regulatory updates or financial aid processing issues—can cause setbacks. One student mentioned receiving funds as late as spring break due to delays. If there are issues, contact Sac State’s Financial Aid Office (Student Service Center, Lassen Hall) at (916) 278‑1000
Tips to maximize your MCS benefit
- Apply early and complete all required documents by the deadline.
- Maintain good grades (minimum 2.0 GPA) and stay enrolled in at least 6 units.
- Monitor your My Sac State Student Center for financial aid To‑Do items, holds, and award notifications
- Be proactive—if funds are delayed, reach out for support immediately.
Why MCS matters for Sac State students
The MCS is a valuable tool:
- It helps bridge the financial gap for moderate-income families.
- Campus advisors, including Director Tina Lent, urge students to apply and supplement MCS with other scholarships, especially if the MCS doesn’t fully cover all expenses
- Still, eligibility may be limited—some students may not qualify and will need to pursue alternative financial support