CSAC

Opening Doors

Scholarships for Firefighter and Emergency Responder Training

As California continues to grapple with the shortage of firefighters, it’s time to lean into programs that expand training and educational opportunities in this field.

To address this shortage, the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC), a state agency that oversees financial aid for eligible families, is working with the California Professional Firefighters to promote scholarship and financial aid opportunities.

Many people mistakenly think that student aid is only available for four-year college degree programs, but that is not the case. This misconception contributed to more than $500 million in unclaimed federal financial aid in 2022.

Available financial aid resources include a range of grants designed specifically to support vocational education and career training. For example, the Cal Grant C program offers financial assistance to cover expenses associated with occupational or career training courses, serving as a valuable resource for those seeking to elevate their skills within specialized fields.

This type of scholarship funding can be used to support training more people in emergency responder fields, including firefighters, emergency medical technicians and paramedics.

Applicants can use up to $2,462 for tuition and fees and $547 for books, tools, and equipment at any Cal Grant eligible private for-profit or private nonprofit institution. Parents are eligible for up to $4,000. It also allows recipients to use up to $1,094 at any California Community College, in addition to other aid available to cover tuition costs.

There is no GPA requirement to apply for the funding, which can be received for Occupational or Technical training programs of at least four months in length.

CSAC understands the transformative power of education and career training in opening doors to a brighter future. Policymakers in Sacramento are working to make Cal Grants, including Cal Grant C, available to more residents and families across the state through Cal Grant Reform efforts that remove barriers and expand access.

To access resources and learn more about financial aid opportunities, please visit CSAC's website: csac.ca.gov.