by Jamie Mahoney
Staff Writer
The proposed cuts to the Cal Grant program should end up being less severe since the recent passage of Proposition 57, though cuts will still be felt by California College students.
Prior to the proposed state budget cuts, students received up to $9,708. The proposed state budget would have reduced it to $5,482.
But since the March 2 elections, that amount is expected to increase to $7,000 in the next few years thanks to Proposition 57, a state bond measure, said Ana Liza Zell, director of admissions at the University of La Verne.
Cuts will not affect continuing students at private schools like ULV because the award money is locked in for the four years they attend school.
“We are committed to responding to students (with) financial need,” said ULV treasurer Avo Kechichian. Cal Grant cuts, however, could dramatically affect incoming classes, primarily because so many La Verne students receive money through the program.
“One-third of entering students generally qualify for Cal Grants,” said Leatha Webster, director of financial aid. Zell said the adjustments to Cal Grants are similar for both public and private universities.
“This year, 179 students received a Cal Grant and because we serve mainly California students, it will have an impact on our ability to yield to those kids,” Zell said.
