Basic Needs Grant

The Basic Needs grant (formerly Emergency Aid grant) assists students in meeting financial needs as a result of an unexpected event. The purpose of this program is to assist students in staying enrolled in college and progressing toward graduation. The Falcon's Nest will explore a variety of resources available to students through on and off campus referrals. Financial Wellness is also important to the Falcon's Nest. Upon a student's request for a Basic Needs grant, we will review and a create budget for students to follow throughout their academic journey. 

Due to the very high volume of requests you May be contacted in approximately 2-3 weeks regarding the status of your request after submission.

Basic Need Grant Eligibility Requirements 

  • Prior enrollment at Cerritos College
  • Have a cumulative 2.0 GPA
  • Enrolled in 6 units

BASIC NEEDS GRANT FACTS

  • The Falcon's Nest will explore a variety of resources available to students through on and off campus referrals. Including but not limited to; Jovenes INC, United Way, and CalFresh. 
  • After submitting a Falcon's Nest Referral form a staff member will contact you to set up a one-on-one meeting. It is important to schedule a meeting with the staff as soon as possible, to expedite the wait time of receiving financial assistance. 
  • Students may receive a financial assistance of up to $500. This is a lifetime maximum per student.
  • Basic Need grant requests may be denied, partially funded, or fully funded (max $500).
  • The Basic Need grant is limited and will only be available during limited times throughout the semester.
  • Applicants MUST submit supporting documentation, examples are a copy of a specific bill, a repair quote, rental notice or lease, etc.
  • Due to the very high volume of requests you will be contacted in approximately 2-3 weeks regarding the status of your request after submission. Requests for the Basic Needs grant with all supporting documentation attached will be reviewed and approved more quickly. We understand your request is urgent, and will contact you sooner if possible.

Basic Need Grant Important Dates 

Fall 2024 Emergency Aid 

September 8, 2025 - December 12, 2025

Spring 2025 Emergency Aid 

January 20, 2026 – May 15, 2026

Summer 2025 Emergency Aid 

June 1, 2026 – August 7, 2026

Types of requests that will not be considered:

  • Fees for other colleges
  • Fees for parking tickets, moving violations, traffic school, or expenses related to violation of regulations/laws 
  • General credit card debt – request needs to be tied to a specific unexpected or emergency cost, and itemized. 

FALCON'S NEST REFERRAL FORM

Be prepared to answer the following questions on the form, in order to describe your need.  To expedite review of your request, be sure to answer the questions fully and attach specific supporting documentation:

  1. Describe the specific unexpected financial emergency that has arisen.
  2. State in specific detail what exact expense you are seeking aid to cover. Supporting documentation must be attached to this form for the expense you describe.
  3. If applicable, please include specific deadlines or timelines. 

Falcon's Nest Referral Form