Disability-Related Financial Aid Support

Students with disabilities registered with Chaffey College’s Disability Programs and Services (DPS) may qualify for full-time financial aid benefits with fewer than 12 units if their disability supports a reduced course load.

This applies to specific California state grants — including Panther Promise and the Student Success Completion Grant (SSCG) — and does not apply to federal grants like Pell.

🎓 Panther Promise and Reduced Unit Eligibility

If you qualify for the Panther Promise and have a verified disability, you may be eligible with fewer than 12 units if certified by a DPS counselor.

Requirements:

• Must be registered with DPS
• Must have submitted a FAFSA or California Dream Act application
• Must have submitted disability documentation and completed an Academic Accommodation Plan (AAP)
• Must be approved by a DPS counselor for a reduced course load due to disability

DPS can submit unit reduction verification directly to the Financial Aid Office for review.

 

🏆 Student Success Completion Grant (SSCG) – Unit Reduction Policy (Beginning 2025–26)

Beginning in the 2025–26 academic year, students enrolled in 9 to 11 units may be considered full-time for SSCG purposes if they meet all of the following:

Eligibility Criteria:

• Registered with Disability Programs and Services (DPS)
• Completed a DPS application, submitted disability documentation, and have a current AAP that supports a reduced course load
• Enrolled in 9–11 units
• Already qualify for a Cal Grant and meet SSCG financial aid requirements

Award Amounts:

• Standard SSCG: $1,298 per term
• Foster Youth (FFY) SSCG: $5,250 per term

Once eligibility is confirmed, DPS will notify Financial Aid that the student is approved to be treated as full-time for SSCG purposes.

 

📌 Important Notes:

• This policy does not apply to federal financial aid such as Pell Grants, which still require enrollment in 12 units or more for full-time eligibility.
• Each case is reviewed individually based on disability documentation and educational limitations.
• Unit reductions must be justified in the student's Academic Accommodation Plan and submitted by a DPS counselor.

 

📝 Next Steps for Students:

1. Apply to DPS: DPS Webpage
2. Submit your FAFSA: Financial Aid Website
3. Meet with a DPS counselor to discuss whether a reduced course load is appropriate
4. If approved, your counselor will notify Financial Aid on your behalf

 

Questions?

• For accommodation or unit reduction questions: DPS.staff@chaffey.edu
• For financial aid or SSCG questions: financialaid@chaffey.edu or visit the Financial Aid Office