Source: CalKids

October 5, 2025 (Sacramento) -- More than 260,000 California 2nd graders are starting this school year with their very first scholarship through CalKIDS, the state’s landmark program that helps families prepare for college and career training.

Each eligible 2nd grader is automatically awarded a minimum of $500 in their CalKIDS Scholarship Account. Foster youth and students experiencing homelessness receive an additional $500–$1,000, for a CalKIDS Scholarship Account worth up to $1,500.

Each year, a new group of students is added to the CalKIDS Program. Eligibility is determined by the California Department of Education using the Local Control Funding Formula, which identifies students based on income criteria or as English learners.