Steps by step guide to apply for CalKIDS Scholarship 
The CalKIDS Scholarship is a pioneering initiative launched by the state of California to support the educational dreams of low-income families and foster youth. It provides newborns and eligible public school students in California with seed money for their future education. This program is an excellent opportunity for families seeking financial assistance to help their children access higher education.
Eligibility for the CalKIDS Scholarship
_ Eligibility for Newborns
All children born in California on or after July 1, 2022, are automatically eligible for the CalKIDS scholarship. Parents do not need to apply; once the child’s birth certificate is registered, they become part of the program, and funds are allocated to their scholarship account.
_ Eligibility for Public School Students
The program also targets low-income public school students who are enrolled in first through 12th grade. To be eligible, students must either be current participants in the federal free or reduced-price meal program or foster youth.
Scholarship Funds and Contributions
• For Newborns
Each eligible newborn receives a seed deposit of $25 in their CalKIDS account. There are opportunities for additional incentives of up to $75, based on various criteria like timely registration.
For Low-Income Public School Students:
Eligible students are awarded $500 in their CalKIDS accounts. Foster youth and homeless students receive additional contributions, making the total amount $1,000. These funds are intended to be used for educational purposes, including college tuition, vocational training, or other approved education-related expenses.
How to Access and Use CalKIDS Funds
CalKIDS participants do not need to take any immediate action upon being enrolled. Parents and guardians can track the funds by registering online and creating a secure login. When the child is ready to pursue higher education, they can access the funds to help cover tuition, textbooks, and other qualifying educational expenses.
Benefits of the CalKIDS Scholarship Program
This initiative aims to promote long-term savings and ensure that more children in California have access to quality higher education, regardless of their family’s financial background. By providing seed money early, the program encourages families to continue saving and planning for their children’s educational future.
Who is eligible for the CalKIDS scholarship?
All children born in California on or after July 1, 2022, are automatically eligible, as well as low-income students from first through 12th grade who are in the federal meal program or are foster youth.
How much money do newborns receive through CalKIDS?
Eligible newborns receive a seed deposit of $25 in their CalKIDS account, with opportunities for additional contributions totaling up to $75.
Can I add more funds to my child’s CalKIDS account?
Yes, parents and guardians are encouraged to continue saving for their child’s education in addition to the funds provided by the program.
How are CalKIDS funds used?
The scholarship funds can be used to cover educational expenses such as tuition, books, or other approved educational costs when the student pursues higher education.
How can I check the balance of my child’s CalKIDS account?
Parents can register online on the official CalKIDS website and create a secure account to track and manage the scholarship funds.