Resources for Student Parents

• The state of California has enacted a new law to support parenting college students. AB 2881 requires colleges and universities to provide priority registration for student parents, and to notify them of resources and support critical to their success.

Priority Registration Information

• Under the Law, student parents are now in the priority 1 group for registration. To ensure you are in the priority 1 group, make sure to choose the option that states "Do you have a child or children under the age of 18 who will receive more than half of their support from you?" on your Update Form.

• How To: Update Form Need one on one help? Visit the Welcome Center or join the Student Information Desk (SID)!

  • Priority registration increases the number of available courses by allowing students to register early for their desired schedule.

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FASFA)

• Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) - Colleges use the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form to determine how much financial aid students are eligible to receive, which could include grants, scholarships, work-study funds, and loans. Any student, regardless of income, who wants to be considered for federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs can fill out a FAFSA. Students must apply for financial aid every year and submit any required documents to the financial aid office.

Federal Pell Grant

• The Federal Pell Grant is free grant money to help with educational costs that does not have to be repaid. The amount of your Pell Grant is determined by your Student Aid Index (SAI), the Cost of Attendance at Bakersfield College, your enrollment intensity, and whether you attend part or all the academic year. Federal Pell Grants are targeted to students with very high need. Even if you do not qualify for a Pell Grant, you may be eligible for other forms of financial aid by completing a FAFSA and should apply!

• Bakersfield College uses the Federal Methodology to determine Pell award amounts.

California Dream Act Application (CADAA)

• The California Dream Act Application (CADAA) allows undocumented students and other eligible non-citizens to apply for state and institutional financial aid, including grants, scholarships, and fee waivers, which do not need to be repaid, to help cover college costs, such as tuition and other educational expenses. To apply, complete the CADAA online, and be sure to submit any required documents to the financial aid office.

Cal Grant & Students with Dependent Children Award

• Cal Grant students attending a University of California, California State University, or California Community College campus who have dependent children may be eligible for an access award of up to $6,000. The Students with Dependent Children (SWD) Grant increases the Cal Grant award by up to $6,000 for qualifying Cal Grant A and B recipients and up to $4,000 for qualifying Cal Grant C recipients. To qualify, the student must have dependent children that are under 18 years of age for whom they provide more than half of their financial support during the academic year. If you add dependents on your FAFSA/CADAA, that information will be submitted to your web grants application. Must have 6 units to receive any Cal Grant. If you believe you are eligible for this award and did not receive it, please reach out to your BC Financial Aid Technician.

• Students with Dependents FAQ

• Cal Grant Awards for Students with Dependent Children

California Chafee Grant for Foster Youth

• The California Chafee Grant Program is for current or former foster youth to cover college expenses or career and technical training. You don't have to pay this money back and can use it for things like childcare, transportation and rent. The Chafee Grant, also known as the Education and Training Voucher (ETV), is a federally funded program and is subject to availability of federal funds each year. Awards can be up to $5000 a year.
  To qualify, you must meet the following criteria:

• Be a current or former foster youth who was a ward of the court, living in foster care, for at least one day between the ages of 16 and 18.

• If you are/were in Kin-GAP, a non-related legal guardianship, or were adopted, you are eligible only if you were a dependent or ward of the court, living in foster care, for at least one day between the ages of 16 and 18.

• Have not reached your 26th birthday as of July 1st of the award year.

• Have not participated in the program for more than 5 years (whether or not consecutive).

• Pursuant to Assembly Bill 2506, starting with the 2017-18 award year, you can only receive your Chafee Grant if you attend a school that is either of the following:

• A qualifying institution that is eligible for participation in the Cal Grant Program.

• An institution that is not located in California with a three-year cohort default rate that is less than 15.5 percent and a graduation rate greater than 30 percent.

• To apply, you must submit the California Chafee Grant Program Application in addition to the FAFSA or California Dream Act Application.

Cost of Attendance Adjustment

• The Net Price Calculator allows prospective students to enter information about themselves to find out what students like them paid to attend Bakersfield College in the previous year, after taking grants and scholarship aid into account. Use the link below to access the BC Net Price Calculator.

Dependent Care Allowance

• The Dependent Care Allowance can increase the amount of financial aid for which you’re eligible by including dependent care expenses, such as childcare, in your cost of attendance (COA) budget, making it easier to balance family responsibilities with your studies. To qualify, you must be enrolled in college, have a dependent, and complete the FAFSA and any other requested financial aid forms. The allowance covers dependent care costs while you attend classes, study, do field work or internships, commute, and more. Contact the financial aid office to learn more about this.

Federal Work-Study

• The Federal Work Study program provides students with an opportunity to earn money for college expenses through part-time jobs on campus (some jobs may be available at select non-profit locations). Bakersfield College participates in both Federal and State work study programs. The student's skills, available hours for work and financial needs are used to refer the student for placement in one of the various offices or other areas on campus. An eligible student may work up to 19 hours per week at the minimum wage of $15.50.

• If offered Federal Work Study, contact the Office of Student Employment to explore opportunities and get matched to a position on campus based on your skills, available hours, and need.

• The CalFresh Program provides monthly food benefits to help low-income students and households buy food for themselves and their families. CalFresh benefits are issued through an Electronic Benefit Transfer Card, which can be used at grocery stores. Eligibility is based on income and is open to students and children who are U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens. To help determine whether you are eligible, visit Renegade Nexus-Food Assistance.

• Building: Center for Student Success (CSS)
  The Cooperative Agencies Resources for Education (CARE) Program promotes students' success by offering specialized services to Bakersfield College students who are single parents receiving public assistance (CalWORKs/TANF/Tribal TANF). As a supplemental component of EOPS, this state-funded program provides educational and financial assistance.
• California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Children (CalWORKs) at Bakersfield College provides education, employment training, support services and work study opportunities to increase wage earning power and lead to self-sufficiency.
• To find out more about CARE/CalWORKs, please visit the programs' Virtual Lobby or call (661) 395-4351

California Special Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)

• The Women, Infants and Children (WIC) help families across the state by providing nutrition education, breastfeeding support, healthy foods, and referrals to health care and other community services.

• WIC serves infants and children up to age 5 and people who are pregnant or have given birth or experienced pregnancy loss. Partners, grandparents, foster parents of young children, and working families are welcome at WIC too!

• To find out more about WIC, please visit the Community Action Partnership of Kern WIC information page.

• Building: Campus Center (CC)
  If you are experiencing basic needs challenges, such as food insecurity, housing search challenges, or academic technology issues, we encourage you to complete the Student Interest Form and one of our staff will reach out to you with help.

• Building: Campus Center (CC)
  The Renegade Pantry offers a wide variety of supplemental food options, personal and professional clothing, gender-affirming clothing, hygiene assistance and personal care to BC students. Each student has 12 points that reset at the beginning of each week. The pantry is located on the Northwest corner of the Dining Commons. To find out more, visit the Bakersfield College Pantry website.

Lactation Spaces at Bakersfield College

• Bakersfield College is committed to supporting nursing parents by providing safe, clean, and private lactation spaces on campus. The following locations are available for use:

• Student Health and Wellness Center - Room 103 A private lactation room is available in Room 103. To schedule access, please call: (661) 395-4336

• Child Development Center - Lactation accommodations are also available at the Child Development Center for students, staff, and visitors.

• Lactation Pod – CSS Building A Lactation Pod is located inside the CSS Building. For access, contact College Safety at: (661) 395-4554

Baby Changing Stations – Panorama Campus

• Welcome Center (W) - 2 baby changing stations inside the Gender-Neutral restrooms.

• Humanities Building (H) - 1 baby changing station inside the Women’s Restroom.

• Child Development Center (CDC) - 1 baby changing table station in Gender-Neutral restroom.

• Science and Engineering Building (SE) - Located inside all restrooms on each floor in the SE building.

• Renegade Athletic Complex (RAC)- 1 baby changing station inside the Women’s restroom, 1 baby changing station inside the Men’s restroom.

• Memorial Stadium - Located inside all restrooms inside the stadium.

Study Space in the BC Library

• Children are welcome in the BC Library. The BC Library recognizes that many students are parents or guardians of children they cannot leave at home alone when they need to study or otherwise use the library. When bringing children to the library, please note the following:

• Children must remain under direct supervision of the adult who brought them (i.e., must remain within their eyesight).

• Library staff and faculty do not watch after children in the library.

• If children are disturbing other library users through excessive noise or horseplay, the parent/guardian and the children may be asked to leave the library.

• Consider bringing a quiet activity for children to complete during their time in the library. For more answers to your questions, please visit the FAQ page on the library website.

Tutoring Center

• Bakersfield College's Tutoring Centers are a proven student success service that provides FREE tutoring both in-person and online to all currently enrolled Bakersfield College Students.

• Services are available through drop-in or by scheduling an in-person or online appointment in advance. Book an appointment online!

Bakersfield College Writing Center

• The Bakersfield College Writing Center offers one-on-one appointments with professional Writing Consultants to all BC registered students. Students can schedule 30-minute sessions. For more information on booking an appointment visit the Writing Center website. 

Medi-Cal

• Medi-Cal offers free or low-cost health care to low-income individuals and families, ensuring access to essential medical services. Medi-Cal can help cover doctor visits, hospital care, vaccinations, pregnancy-related services, medications, and more. To learn more about eligibility and apply, visit the Medi-Cal website or visit your local Department of Health Care Services

Covered California

• The Covered California program provides affordable health insurance options to individuals and families, ensuring access to essential health care services. Additionally, it offers financial assistance to lower the cost of health insurance, with some plans available for less than $10 per month. This program can help cover expenses for doctor visits, hospital care, medications, preventive services, and more. To learn more about eligibility and apply, visit the Covered California website, call 800-300-1506, or contact a certified enroller or your local Department of Health Care Services.

Federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)

• If you work and have a low to moderate income, you may qualify for the Federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). This credit provides a refund or reduces the amount of federal tax you owe. If eligible, the EITC can help put hundreds or even thousands of dollars back in your pocket, helping to support your household expenses. The value is up to $4,328 with one child and up to $8,046 with three or more children. To claim this credit, you must file your federal tax return and meet specific income and eligibility requirements. To learn more, visit the Internal Revenue Service website.

California Earned Income Tax Credit (CalEITC)

• The California Earned Income Tax Credit (CalEITC) offers support for low-income, working Californians. You may be eligible for up to $3,417 cash back or a reduction of the tax you owe. To learn if you may qualify and how to apply, please visit the Franchise Tax Board website.

Child Tax Credit (CTC)

• The Additional Child Tax Credit (CTC) allows you to increase your tax refund by claiming up to $1,700 per qualifying child. For low-income families, this credit can provide a refundable amount to help support essential household expenses. To qualify, make sure to include each child’s information when filing your federal tax return. To learn more, visit the Internal Revenue Service website.

Young Child Tax Credit (YCTC)

• The Young Child Tax Credit (YCTC) provides a credit up $1,083 per tax return for Californians who qualify for CalEITC and have a child under 6 years old.
  New for tax year 2022 forward, you may qualify for YCTC with total earned income of zero dollars or less provided all of the following apply:

• Your total wages, salaries, tips, and other employee compensation (whether subject to California withholding or not), if any, do not exceed $32,490

• Your total net loss does not exceed $32,490, and

• You otherwise meet the CalEITC and YCTC requirements
  You must claim YCTC on the 2022 FTB 3514 form, California Earned Income Tax Credit, or if you e-file follow your software's instructions. You may claim YCTC for tax year 2019 forward by filing or amending your state income tax return. However, for tax years prior to 2022 you will only be eligible for YCTC if you meet all CalEITC requirements, including having at least $1 of earned income in the tax year.

• To learn if you may qualify and how to apply, please visit the Franchise Tax Board website.

Foster Youth Tax Credit (FYTC)

• The Foster Youth Tax Credit (FYTC) offers up to $1,154 as a refundable tax credit during tax season for current and former foster youth. To qualify, you must have been in foster care at the age of 13 and currently be between the ages of 18 and 25. This credit provides extra financial support to help with essential household expenses. You may also file up to three past year tax returns if you qualify and have not claimed this credit. To claim the FYTC, you must file your California state tax return and include documentation of your eligibility. To learn more, visit the California Franchise Tax Board website.

Federal Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC)

• The Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit helps reduce a working parent’s taxable income if they paid for childcare for children under age 13 or care for a dependent while working, attending school full-time, or actively looking for work. This credit can ease the financial burden of caregiving, making it more affordable to balance family and career or education needs. To claim this credit, be sure to include all qualifying expenses when filing your federal tax return. To learn more, visit the Internal Revenue Service website.

American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC)

• The American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC) provides up to $1,000 as a refundable cash credit when you file your taxes. This credit can help get
  you money back for school expenses, including tuition, fees, books, and supplies needed for your studies. To claim AOTC, include your qualifying education expenses on your federal tax return. To learn more, visit the Internal Revenue Service website.

Lifetime Learning Credit (LLC)

• The Lifetime Learning Credit (LLC) allows you to reduce your taxable income by up to $2,000 for qualifying education expenses. This credit can help offset the costs of tuition, enrollment fees, and other school expenses, making education more affordable. To claim the LLC, include your qualifying expenses when filing your federal tax return. To learn more, visit the Internal Revenue Service website.

Free Tax Filing Services (VITA)

• The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program provides free tax filing services to individuals and families who meet certain income requirements. VITA can help you file your taxes accurately and ensure you receive any credits or refunds you’re eligible for, including education and child tax credits. Certified volunteers offer this service at community locations, making it accessible and convenient. Use the VITA/TCE Locator website to locate the VITA program site nearest you. To learn more, visit the Internal Revenue Service website.

Free Self-Online Filing

There are free online self-filing programs, like MyFreeTaxes, which provides a secure and accessible platform for you to file your taxes online at no cost. This service, powered by the United Way, helps you maximize your refunds and claim eligible credits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit (CTC). To qualify, you must meet certain income requirements and have access to a computer or mobile device. To learn more or begin filing your taxes for free, visit the MyFreeTaxes website or contact their support team for assistance.

Bakersfield College Child Development Center

• Building: Family and Consumer Education (FACE)

• The centers are licensed through the California Department of Social Services. All teachers are professionally trained in the field of early childhood education and are certificated through the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.

• Placement in the program is made according to state priorities and date of application. Please visit the CDC Application to apply online now! The program is designed for income eligible families who are enrolled in BC courses leading to a specific career/professional goal.

Community Connection for Child Care

• Community Connection for Child Care (CCCC) is a child development and family services agency dedicated to providing options, education and support to children, families, child development professionals, and the community. For more information, visit the Community Connection for Child Care website.

Head Start/Early Head Start

• Head Start and Early Head Start provide free child care and early childhood education for children from birth to age five, supporting low-income families. These programs, funded by both federal and state sources, offer comprehensive services, including early learning, health screenings, and family support resources to ensure children are ready to succeed in school. Families can also access additional support services tailored to their needs. To see if you qualify and to apply, visit the Head Start website or contact a local Head Start provider.

California Work Opportunity and Responsibility for Kids (CalWORKs) Child Care

• The CalWORKs Child Care program helps low-income families access and afford child care so parents can work, attend school, or participate in training. CalWORKs provides financial assistance for child care services, covering children from birth through age 12. This support ensures that parents can pursue employment or education while their children receive quality care. To learn more about eligibility and apply, visit the CalWORKs Child Care website.

Kern County Helpline 2-1-1

• Kern County Help-Line links those in need to services available in the community such as food, clothing and shelter. 211 can be dialed from ANY phone line at no charge. To reach the helpline, call (661) 336-5200 or call 2-1-1. CAPK Programs include Food Bank, Head Start, WIC and Friendship House. Check out all the CAPK Programs online.

Kern County Human Services

• Provides resources for children, families, and individuals in Kern County.

Department of Human Services

• The mission of the Department of Human Services is to partner with children, individuals, families and the community to provide customer-centered services, ensuring safe, protected and permanent homes for children and employment preparation for adults. Programs include: CalFresh, CalWORKs, Medi-Cal, General Assistance, and more! Please visit the BenefitsCal website to apply for benifits.

Black Infant Health

• The California Black Infant Health (BIH) Program aims to improve health among Black mothers and babies and to reduce the Black: White disparities by empowering pregnant and mothering Black women to make healthy choices for themselves, their families, and their communities. Please visit the Kern Public Health Black Infant Health Program webpage.

Clinica Sierra Vista Medically Vulnerable Infant Program

• Clinica Sierra Vista's Medically Vulnerable Infant Program (MVIP) is a nurse home-visiting program for families of eligible babies just released from a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at local hospitals. Clinica Sierra Vista provides services to children up to 3 years old who meet the program's medical criteria. Please visit the Clinica Sierra Vista Vulnerable Infant Program webpage.

Early Start Family Resource Center

• Provides supportive services which include education, parent to parent support groups, information and referral, children playgroups and training to families with children who are at risk for or experiencing delays or disabilities. For more information, please visit the Kern Regional Early Start Program webpage.

H.E.A.R.T.S. Connection

• H.E.A.R.T.S. Connection's mission is to enhance the quality of life for people with special needs through a family resource center that symbolizes professionalism, dignity, compassion, and respect.

Kern Indian Education and Community Resource Center

• Provides resource and referral information, assistance with Tribal TANF (Temporary Aid for Needy Families), supportive services, prevention activities, free events, family literacy, early childhood education, tutoring, and job search assistance to eligible Native American families.

Visit Bakersfield

• If you are looking for a list of "family fun" things to do in Bakersfield, look no further. Explore the Best of Bakersfield with the Family Fun Pass. The Pass provides exclusive family-friendly deals and discounts on a variety of activities throughout the city. Head to Visit Bakersfield to receive your pass instantly via text or email, no app is needed.