Did you know your child and public school student may be eligible for a free scholarship?
CalKIDS is California’s statewide children’s development account program launched in 2022 by the ScholarShare Investment Board, which also administers ScholarShare 529 – the state’s official college savings plan. Every child born in California on or after July 1, 2022, has a CalKIDS Scholarship ranging from $25 to $175 waiting in their name, while eligible public-school students receive $500 and up to $1,500 for college, vocational school, or career training.
The financial benefits families may receive include:
- $25 for babies born July 2022–June 2023; $100 for those born July 1, 2023 and after
- Additional $25 when parents claim their child’s CalKIDS Scholarship Account, available for children born in California on or after July 1, 2022
- $50 bonus for linking a CalKIDS Account to a ScholarShare 529 account available for children born in California on or after July 1, 2022
- $500 for eligible public-school students, with additional funds for foster youth and students experiencing homelessness—up to $1,500 total in CalKIDS Scholarships
Your child may already have an account established in their name.
In San Mateo County alone, as of June 30, 2025, a total of $20,346,500 has been allocated for CalKIDS Scholarships for approximately 38,600 eligible families. This represents an incredible state investment in supporting San Mateo County youth on their higher education journey.
Statewide, the CalKIDS Program has invested over $2 billion in scholarships for more than 5 million California children. Assemblymember Papan is coordinating closely with CalKIDS to help connect San Mateo students with their share of scholarship funds.
That is why I am hosting a webinar and partnering with the Child Care Coordinating Council (4Cs) of San Mateo County and the State Treasurer’s Office to help you check your child’s eligibility, claim an account, and learn more about the CalKIDS program.
This webinar is your opportunity to start planning for your child’s future higher education and address your questions and concerns. Join us and together let’s help support our future students.
