California State University: financial aid for homeless students: pilot program.

Senator Cortese's proposal to establish a Financial Assistance for Students Experiencing Homelessness Pilot Program would create targeted support for formerly homeless students at three California State University campuses, including San Jose State University. The program would cover remaining attendance costs beyond existing financial aid for qualifying students who experienced homelessness during high school and are between ages 17 and 26.

To participate, students must maintain full-time enrollment while pursuing their first bachelor's degree, complete federal or state financial aid applications, apply for all available grants and fee waivers, and meet academic progress standards. Each campus would designate a liaison to assist qualifying students with applications, financial aid, and support services. The pilot requires participating institutions to cover costs exceeding other non-loan aid during students' first four years of enrollment.

The California Student Aid Commission would establish data-sharing agreements with the Department of Education to identify eligible students while protecting privacy. The CSU Chancellor's office must evaluate the program's impact on retention, housing stability, and food security by December 2030. The pilot would begin in the 2026-27 academic year, contingent on legislative funding, and sunset in July 2031 unless extended by subsequent legislation.