Student Parent Resources
Hey, student parents!
At Cuesta, we understand that being a parent and a student means navigating multiple responsibilities-and we’re here to make that journey a little easier.
This web page pulls together all the available resources for making college more affordable and manageable, so you can focus on what truly matters: your family and your education.
Our Children's Center offers on-campus day care.
We have a Student Parent Support Group so you can connect with fellow student parents, share your experiences, and access resources tailored to your unique needs. Together, we can support each other on our academic journey. Join us and be part of a supportive community! Email elise_caloca@cuesta.edu with questions.
A Lactation Room for nursing parents is available on the North County Campus in Room N2433 and on the San Luis Campus in Room 5125A. Please contact Human Resources to schedule the rooms in 30-45 minute blocks, as needed. Contact Human Resources at 805-546-3129 and hr@cuesta.edu.
On Campus Resources
188bet.com uses a registration priority system when determining registration priority. You are encouraged to register on your priority registration day and time to ensure you get the best possible course options available. You may make changes to your schedule anytime on or after their appointment date and time.
To view your specific registration appointment date and time, please log in to your
Student parents who complete the online orientation, orientation and educational plan with an academic counselor will qualify for the earliest possible priority registration.
The Pell Grant is a federal need-based grant funded by the Department of Education that does not need to be repaid. The FAFSA determines a student’s financial need, and therefore, what amount, if any, of the Pell Grant a student is eligible for.
For most types of Financial Aid, the first step is to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the California Dream Act (for undocumented and nonresident students). Doing so connects you to all types of aid options — grants, loans, work-study, and scholarships — from federal, state, and 188bet.com sources. Even if you think you may not qualify, the FAFSA is completely free and can make a huge difference in college affordability.
The Cal Grant is a state need-based grant funded through the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) that does not need to be repaid. It is for students pursuing an undergraduate degree or vocational/career training. The FAFSA or CA Dream Act and a GPA Verification determine a student’s eligibility.
The Chafee Grant is a state program funded through the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) that does not need to be repaid. It is for current or former California Foster Youth pursuing an undergraduate degree or vocational/career training.
Average student's costs for various categories in budgets are developed using surveyed information provided by the California Student Aid Commission. For questions, please email finaid@cuesta.edu
Average student's costs for various categories in budgets are developed using surveyed information provided by the California Student Aid Commission. For questions, please email finaid@cuesta.edu
Federal Work-Study (FWS) is a federal need-based student employment program funded by the Department of Education in which students earn funds. The FAFSA determines a student’s financial need, and therefore, a student's eligibility.
Remember to check out the Cougar Food Pantry- room 5104A on the San Luis Obispo Campus, room N1005 on the Paso Campus, and in Building 9 at the South County Center!
Basic Needs Resources: Cash, food, and other direct support to offset your college costs
The provides monthly food benefits to help low-income students and households buy food for themselves and their families. are issued through an Electronic Benefit Transfer Card, which can be used at grocery stores and participating farmers markets. Eligibility is based on income and is open to students and children who are U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens. To help determine whether you are eligible, use this .
The provides monthly cash assistance to low-income families with at least one child in the home to help cover essential needs such as rent, housing, food, clothing, medical payments, and utilities. CalWORKs benefits are issued to support basic household stability and may include additional supportive services like child care assistance and housing support. Eligibility is based on income, age, and citizenship. To apply for benefits, go to this .
program supports pregnant individuals, new parents, and young children (birth through age four) in staying healthy and meeting their nutritional needs. WIC provides monthly cash benefits to purchase healthy foods, along with access to nutrition education, breastfeeding/chestfeeding support, and referrals to additional family resources. This program aims to ensure that families have the resources they need for a healthy start. To learn more about eligibility and apply, visit the WIC or contact a .
Visit the Basic Needs Center for support with essential resources like food assistance, emergency housing, and other supportive services. Every California public college has a Basic Need Center to help you access resources you need to thrive. Stop by or contact the campus center to learn more about available assistance. With questions, email Jack DePuy at basicneeds@cuesta.edu
offers free or low-cost health care to low-income individuals and families, ensuring access to essential medical services. Medi-Cal can help cover doctor visits, hospital care, vaccinations, pregnancy-related services, medications, and more. To learn more about eligibility and apply, visit the Medi-Cal or visit your local .
provides affordable health insurance options to individuals and families, ensuring access to essential health care services. Additionally, it offers financial assistance to lower the cost of health insurance, with some plans available for less than $10 per month. This program can help cover expenses for doctor visits, hospital care, medications, preventive services, and more. To learn more about eligibility and apply, visit the Covered California , call 800-300-1506, or contact a certified enroller or your local .
Tax Credits: Money back from your taxes and free filing support
If you work and have a low to moderate income, you may qualify for . This credit provides a refund or reduces the amount of federal tax you owe. If eligible, the EITC can help put hundreds or even thousands of dollars back in your pocket, helping to support your household expenses. The value is up to $4,328 with one child and up to $8,046 with three or more children. To claim this credit, you must file your federal tax return and meet specific income and eligibility requirements. To learn more, visit the IRS website .
If you work and have a low to moderate income, you may qualify for up to $3,644 with the . This credit provides you with a refund or reduces the amount of state tax you owe, putting money back into your pocket to help with essential household expenses. If you are eligible for CalEITC, and have a child under the age of six, you may also qualify for the Young Child Tax Credit (YCTC), which can add even more to your refund. To claim these credits, you must file your California state tax return and meet certain income requirements. To learn more, visit the California Franchise Tax Board website .
allows you to increase your tax refund by claiming up to $1,700 per qualifying child. For low-income families, this credit can provide a refundable amount to help support essential household expenses. To qualify, make sure to include each child’s information when filing your federal tax return. To learn more, visit the IRS website .
If you qualify for the CalEITC and have a child under the age of six, you may also be eligible for, which can provide up to $1,154 as a refundable tax credit. This credit helps families offset the costs of raising young children by either offering a larger tax refund or a reduced tax bill. To estimate your eligibility and potential refund, use this and see how much the YCTC could benefit your family. To learn more, visit the California Franchise Tax Board website .
offers up to $1,154 as a refundable tax credit during tax season for current and former foster youth. To qualify, you must have been in foster care at the age of 13 and currently be between the ages of 18 and 25. This credit provides extra financial support to help with essential household expenses. You may also file up to three past year tax returns if you qualify and have not claimed this credit. To claim the FYTC, you must file your California state tax return and include documentation of your eligibility. To learn more, visit the California Franchise Tax Board website .
helps reduce a working parent’s taxable income if they paid for child care for children under age 13 or care for a dependent while working, attending school full-time, or actively looking for work. This credit can ease the financial burden of caregiving, making it more affordable to balance family and career or education needs. To claim this credit, be sure to include all qualifying expenses when filing your federal tax return. To learn more, visit the IRS website .
provides up to $1,000 as a refundable cash credit when you file your taxes. This credit can help get you money back for school expenses, including tuition, fees, books, and supplies needed for your studies. To claim AOTC, include your qualifying education expenses on your federal tax return. To learn more, visit the IRS website .
allows you to reduce your taxable income by up to $2,000 for qualifying education expenses. This credit can help offset the costs of tuition, enrollment fees, and other school expenses, making education more affordable. To claim the LLC, include your qualifying expenses when filing your federal tax return. To learn more, visit the IRS website .
provides free tax filing services to individuals and families who meet certain income requirements. VITA can help you file your taxes accurately and ensure you receive any credits or refunds you’re eligible for, including education and child tax credits. Certified volunteers offer this service at community locations, making it accessible and convenient. Use this to locate the VITA program site nearest you. To learn more, visit the IRS website .
There are free online self-filing programs, like , which provides a secure and accessible platform for you to file your taxes online at no cost. This service, powered by the United Way, helps you maximize your refunds and claim eligible credits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit (CTC). To qualify, you must meet certain income requirements and have access to a computer or mobile device. To learn more or begin filing your taxes for free, visit the website or contact their support team for assistance.
If you need assistance finding off-campus childcare, contact the . For more off-campus resources, such as parent education and coaching, check out the for support throughout the county.
More Child Care Resources- Help finding and paying for child care while you go to school and work
helps families find local child care providers throughout California. This service connects families with licensed providers, offering guidance on selecting safe and quality child care that meets each family’s specific needs. To get started, visit the network’s .
provide free child care and early childhood education for children from birth to age five, supporting low-income families. These programs, funded by both federal and state sources, offer comprehensive services, including early learning, health screenings, and family support resources to ensure children are ready to succeed in school. Families can also access additional support services tailored to their needs. To see if you qualify and to apply, visit the Head Start or contact a .
helps low-income families access and afford child care so parents can work, attend school, or participate in training. CalWorks provides financial assistance for child care services, covering children from birth through age 12. This support ensures that parents can pursue employment or education while their children receive quality care. To learn more about eligibility and apply, visit the CalWORKs Child Care .
provide financial assistance for child care to support families with children from birth to age 12. These state and federal programs offer a range of early learning and after-school services, including care for babies, toddlers, preschool-aged children, and children in kindergarten through sixth grade. To find available child care programs near you, use the . To learn about eligibility, you can visit this .
offers free or low-cost preschool for three- and four- year-old children from income-eligible families who meet certain requirements. Part-day and full-day options are available and include meals and developmental screenings for children. This state program is administered through local educational agencies, colleges, nonprofits, and other licensed providers. To find a CSPP program near you, contact your local school district or educational agency.
Public Benefits and Other Resources: Additional supports to ease your path through college
program provides job training, career coaching, and employment support services to help individuals gain the skills needed for quality employment. WIOA offers resources such as job search assistance, resume building, educational opportunities, and job placement services. This program is available through American Job Centers, which are located nationwide. To find your local center and learn about available services, visit this .
provides monthly financial assistance to help low-income individuals and families pay for housing. Voucher amounts are based on household income and local rental costs, allowing recipients to secure safe and affordable housing. Vouchers can be used for various housing options, including current residences, provided they meet the safety and health standards and the landlord participates in the program. To find the nearest Public Housing Agency and learn more, visit this .
provides financial support for essential needs to low-income families, including food, rent, and other basic expenses. It also offers assistance to prevent eviction or secure temporary housing. This program can help cover costs such as security deposits, last month’s rent, up to two months of past-due rent to avoid eviction, and up to 16 days of temporary housing expenses (up to $145 per day for hotel or motel stays). To learn more about eligibility and apply, visit the CalWORKs or contact your local .
is a free, confidential service that connects individuals and families to essential resources within their community. Whether you need help with food, mental health, health care, housing, transportation, utility assistance, legal aid, job training, after-school programs, disaster relief, or other services, 2-1-1 can guide you to the right support. You can dial 2-1-1 directly and explain the type of assistance you are seeking or visit the 2-1-1 to search for resources online.
helps low-income households manage their energy costs by providing a one-time payment to assist with heating or cooling bills. In addition, LIHEAP offers in-home weatherization services to improve energy efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance the health and safety of your home. To learn more about eligibility and to apply, visit the LIHEAP .
provides monthly financial assistance to low-income individuals who are blind, disabled, or 65 years of age or older. This program allows most students to work without their SSI benefit decreasing. This is known as the Student Earned Income Exclusion (SEIE), which lets students keep the first $2,220 in earnings each month without affecting the countable earned income calculation. But, there is an annual cap of $8,950, so if you earn more than this in any given year, the income starts counting towards the earned income calculation again. To learn more about eligibility and apply, you can visit the Social Security Administration (SSA) , visit your local SSA office, or call 1-800-772-1213.
And, of course, all of our other student services, like EOPS, CARE and CalWorks are open to student parents, as well.