California Families May Be Sitting on Free College Money Without Knowing It
CalKIDS scholarship funds worth millions of dollars are still going unclaimed across California — and many Korean American families may not even realize they qualify.
California officials said this week that more than 900,000 students have already claimed education funds through the state-run CalKIDS program. But millions of dollars in scholarship money remain untouched.
“If eligible students do not claim their funds by age 26, the money will be returned to the program,” CalKIDS officials said in a statement released Tuesday.
The agency is now urging parents and students to check whether they qualify before the money disappears.
Up to $1,500 Available for Eligible Students
The CalKIDS program, operated by the California State Treasurer’s Office, provides college and career training support for eligible California students.
Unlike traditional scholarships, families do not need to submit lengthy applications. Eligible students automatically receive scholarship accounts under their names, and families simply need to verify eligibility and claim the funds online.
The CalKIDS scholarship can provide up to $1,500 depending on the student’s background and eligibility category.
Officials previously estimated that roughly 68% of public school students in Los Angeles County qualify for the program, yet more than $20 million statewide remains unclaimed.
Who Qualifies for the Program?
Eligibility is divided into two major groups: newborn children and California public school students.
Children born in California on or after July 1, 2022 automatically receive scholarship accounts regardless of household income. Parents can begin checking eligibility and claiming funds about 90 days after birth.
Award amounts vary by birth year. Most newborns qualify for up to $100, while children born after July 2023 may receive up to $175.
Meanwhile, students enrolled in California public schools during the 2021–2022 academic year may also qualify.
Eligible students generally receive $500, while foster youth and homeless or housing-insecure students can receive additional support totaling up to $1,500.
What Can the Money Be Used For?
The scholarship funds can help cover college tuition, fees, textbooks, school supplies, and some housing-related education expenses.
However, the money cannot be withdrawn as cash. Funds must be used through approved colleges, universities, or career training institutions.
As college costs continue rising across California, officials say many families are overlooking what is essentially free education money already waiting in their child’s name.
And for students struggling with tuition bills, checking a simple eligibility page could end up being worth far more than expected.
