This scholarship is a jumpstart toward your future education!
Make it work for you by Claiming it, Growing it, and using it for what matters most > your next step in life.
CalKIDS scholarship funds can be used to cover various education expenses such as…
- Tuition and fees
- Books and supplies
- Room and board
- Computer equipment
Note: For more detailed info, refer to the CalKIDS Program Guide
What Happens Next & How to Use Your Scholarship
What to Expect Next After Claiming Your CalKIDS Scholarship
Once your CalKIDS scholarship is claimed, the funds are secured in your name and protected by the State of California. You do not need to use the money immediately.
After claiming, you can take time to:
Plan your education or career pathway
Decide when and how to use the funds
Learn how to grow the funds through a ScholarShare 529 account
The money remains available until you are ready to use it for an eligible education or training program.
How to Use Your CalKIDS Funds (Step-by-Step)
Using your CalKIDS funds is a process, not a one-time payout. Here is how it works:
Step 1: Claim your CalKIDS account
You have already completed this step by verifying eligibility and claiming the scholarship through the official CalKIDS website.
Step 2: Log in and review your account
Confirm your personal information and review your available scholarship balance.
Step 3: Enroll in an eligible program
Funds can be used once the student is enrolled in an eligible:
College or university
Trade or vocational school
Apprenticeship or approved training program
Step 4: Request a distribution
After enrollment, you (or the student, if an adult) request a distribution through the CalKIDS system.
Step 5: Funds are sent for approved use
Funds are paid directly toward eligible education expenses, usually to the school or program. The money is not sent as cash to families.
Step 6: Track and manage your funds
You can monitor your balance, usage, and future options through your account.
Core 6 is available to help you understand each step so you do not get stuck or overwhelmed.
Where CalKIDS Funds Can Be Used
CalKIDS funds are designed to support education and career advancement. Approved uses include:
College or university tuition and required fees
Trade and vocational programs
Apprenticeships and career training programs
Books, supplies, and required materials
Computer or technology required for school
Certain housing costs while enrolled
Eligible schools and programs may be located inside or outside of California, as long as they meet program requirements.
Linking Your CalKIDS Funds to a ScholarShare 529 Account
After claiming your scholarship, you have the option to move your CalKIDS funds into a ScholarShare 529 account.
Linking to a ScholarShare 529 allows you to:
Keep education funds in one place
Potentially grow your money over time
Benefit from tax-advantaged education savings
Plan ahead for future education expenses
How to link your account:
Open a ScholarShare 529 account (if you do not already have one)
Log into your CalKIDS account
Follow the prompts to link your CalKIDS funds
Core 6 provides education and guidance so families understand whether this option makes sense for them.
Once the account is claimed and the student is enrolled in an eligible program, funds can be used as soon as the distribution process is completed. Processing times may vary.
No.
CalKIDS funds are not paid as cash. They are distributed toward approved education expenses, usually directly to the school or program.
There is no age limit to claim the scholarship. Funds can be used once the student is enrolled in an eligible post-secondary education or training program.
No.
The funds do not expire immediately. Families can choose to use them when ready or allow them to remain in the account until an eligible education or training opportunity arises.
CalKIDS funds are designed to support education and generally do not reduce other benefits. Families are encouraged to learn how CalKIDS fits into their overall education and financial plan.
Core 6 does not hold or distribute CalKIDS funds. We support families by:
Explaining next steps in plain language
Helping plan how and when to use the funds
Providing financial education and workshops
Answering questions so families can make informed decisions
Once you’ve created your CalKIDS account, you can log in at any time to:
- View your scholarship balance
- See account status
- Track next steps
Already claimed your scholarship?
Let’s make sure you’re set up for success. Explore next steps, link your funds, and plan how to use your CalKIDS scholarship wisely.