One Active Program = Maximum Aid Impact
Starting Fall 2025, you can have one active Program of Study at a time, which includes
one degree and one related certificate. This focused approach ensures your financial
aid goes toward courses that actually count toward your graduation.
Your Financial Aid Has Limits (But We'll Help You Navigate Them)
Federal and state grants like Pell Grant and Cal Grant are designed to help you earn
your first Bachelor degree. Only courses required for your active Program of Study
will be covered by these major funding sources. But here's the good news: the California
College Promise Grant (CCPG) can still cover the fees of other classes you want to
take for personal interest or exploration.
Flexibility Within Structure
You can change your Program of Study once per semester, but timing matters. Make your
change before the financial aid freeze date (when your enrollment gets locked in for aid calculations) to ensure it affects your
current semester's funding.
If you currently have multiple programs listed in your records, don't panic. We'll assign your primary program as your active Program of Study and send you a notification. Want to change it? Schedule a meeting with a counselor right away.
Already have a degree and using aid for another one? You can finish your current program, but future changes will require an appeal—a formal request that explains your educational goals and why continued aid is necessary.
Talk to a Counselor
Our counselors will review your program, update your goals, and create an education
plan that keeps you eligible for aid while meeting all your requirements.
Monday-Friday 8:00am-5:00pm
Financial Aid Lab hours:
Monday-Friday 9:00am-5:00pm
Zoom Virtual Lab hours:
Monday-Friday 2:00pm-4:00pm
IVC - Building 100 ( Campus Map )
Office Hours:
Monday – Thursday, 8AM to 7PM
Friday - 8AM to 5PM
Phone: (760) 355-6543
counseling@imperial.edu
Your degree is waiting—let's build the most direct path to get you there.