Going into Teaching?
The Golden State Teacher Grant program (GSTG) is for students who are currently enrolled in a professional preparation program approved by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) and working towards earning their preliminary teaching or pupil personnel services credential.
Students must complete their program and obtain their credential within 6 years from the date their initial GSTG payments are mailed to their institution and commit to work at either a priority school or a California preschool program for 4 years within 8 years of completing their program.
GSTG awards of up to $20,000 are available to eligible, currently enrolled students in California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) approved teacher preparation programs within a California institution of higher education who have filed a FAFSA or CADAA.
What is the Commitment?
The Service Agreement explains the student’s obligations under the provisions of the grant. Non-compliance with the Service Agreement will result in partial or full grant repayment.
- Maintain good academic standing while enrolled in the CTC approved teacher preparation program.
- Commit to teach at an eligible priority school or a CSPP for 4 years within 8 years of completing their program.
When is the Deadline to Apply?
The 2024-25 GSTG application will open from September 1, 2023 through April 1, 2025, or until all funds have been awarded, whichever occurs first. Institutions will be able to review 2024-25 GSTG applications for eligibility and award determination in the spring of 2024, after the opening of the 2024-25 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and California Dream Act Application (CADAA). Awarding is done on a first-come, first-served basis, and funding is limited, so submit your application as soon as possible.
How do I Apply?
Apply for a Golden State Teacher Grant on the California Student Aid Commission’s (CSAC) Golden State Teacher Grant webpage.
Once you have completed all steps, contact your Graduate Student Affairs Officer so they may work with the Financial Aid Office and track your application.
How Will I Know if I am Awarded a Golden State Teacher Grant?
If awarded, you will be notified by the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC). CSAC will send eligible GSTG applicants a letter of acknowledgement along with a Service Agreement (SA).
The SA outlines the requirements of the program and stipulates that CSAC will authorize a one-time grant, with the amount stipulated on the SA, to an eligible applicant who commits to teach at an eligible priority school or a CSPP for 4 years within 8 years of completing their program.
You will return (email) the signed SA to CSAC within thirty (30) days or sign electronically.
If I am Awarded, How and When will I Receive the Funds?
Your award will come Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) from CSAC to UC Berkeley.
Once the campus receives the funds, your package will be adjusted and funds disbursed within 2-3 business days of the package adjustment.
Need Help? We’re Here for You
Please contact us with any questions you may have.
Don’t wait to start your application! Visit the Golden State Teacher Grant webpage to get more information about eligibility, application and service requirements. Start your application soon, as there are a limited number of grants available!