Two Local Districts Among Top 10 in State for Federal Student Aid and Dream Act Applications

San Diego Unified School District and Grossmont Union High School District were among the top 10 districts that improved the most in financial aid applications compared to last year in the state’s Race to Submit contest.

Coordinated by the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC), the annual statewide “Race to Submit” competition, encourages high school students to submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and California Dream Act Application (CADAA) and celebrates the incredible efforts of public high schools and school districts across California to expand access to higher education. 

SDCOE supports schools and districts across the county, specifically school counselors, in the Race to Submit campaign through professional development, sharing timely resources, and highlighting best practices in schools and districts in our region.

SDCOE also coordinates a countywide Race to Submit competition to encourage local schools and districts to devote time and resources to help more students complete and submit both applications. 

“This is an incredible accomplishment and a reflection of the dedication of our local school counselors, administrators, and staff who continue to ensure students and families have access to financial aid and opportunities beyond high school," said San Diego County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Gloria E. Ciriza. "Supporting our students' future success helps build pathways to economic mobility and stronger communities of belonging."

Schools were ranked across two major metrics for the 2026-27 financial aid application year, factoring in the certified enrollment counts from the California Department of Education. The top 10 leaders represent schools achieving the highest percentage of completed FAFSAs/CADAAs matched to student GPAs.

From Oct. 1, 2025, through the competition deadline on June 30, 2026, the Race to Submit Online Dashboard actively tracked both 2026-27 FAFSA and CADAA application progress at the high school, district, county, and state levels. A complete list of winning schools and districts by category and region can be viewed directly on the Race to Submit Leaderboard.

The data from this year’s financial aid cycle highlights the state’s continued leadership in college affordability. Joining San Diego Unified and Grossmont Union among the top 10 districts that improved the most in financial aid applications compared to last year are Los Angeles Unified, Oakland Unified, Kern High School District, San Francisco Unified, East Side Union, Fresno Unified, San Juan Unified, and Sacramento City Unified.

Nationally, California currently ranks 6th for FAFSA completion, continuing to maintain its position among the top states for financial aid application completion. 

While the high school competition has officially concluded, students planning to attend a California Community College have until Sept. 2, 2026, to submit their FAFSA or CADAA for the 2026-27 academic year.

Free support resources are available to help families complete their forms accurately before the deadline, including step-by-step instructions and priority timelines on the CSAC How to Apply webpage.