Berkeley Middle Class Access Plan (MCAP)

The Berkeley Middle Class Access Plan (MCAP) is a new financial aid program to help middle-class families pay for the growing cost of an undergraduate degree. For families whose gross income ranges from $80,000 to $140,000 annually and who have typical assets, the groundbreaking plan caps the contribution parents make toward the total annual cost of a UC Berkeley student’s education at a maximum of 15 percent of their total income. Many parents in this income range will be asked to contribute less than the 15 percent cap.

We encourage eligible families of both currently enrolled and prospective students to file a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) if they wish to be considered for the Berkeley Middle Class Access Plan.

The Facts

  • UC Berkeley will begin making MCAP awards in academic year 2012-13.
  • You must be a domestic dependent undergraduate student.
  • Your annual family income must be between $80,000 and $140,000, and you must have typical assets.
  • You must file a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to apply for MCAP aid, listing UC Berkeley (federal school code 001312). The priority deadline for filing a FAFSA is March 2, 2012.
  • MCAP will not cover the cost of nonresident tuition.
  • International students are not eligible.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are "typical assets"?
Campus financial aid officials generally consider typical assets for middle-income families to be an adjusted net worth of less than $200,000. This usually reflects the total amount of money one has in cash, savings, checking, investments, and equity in real estate other than the home, as well as one’s business net worth. Not considered are one’s primary home equity and formal retirement assets such as 401(k), 403(b), IRA, or Keogh accounts.

The Financial Aid and Scholarships Office makes the final determination about each family’s expected contribution by considering all factors affecting the family’s overall financial situation and ability to pay.

When will families know the exact amount of aid offered?
New students will receive their financial aid offers at the time of their admission. Continuing students will receive their financial aid offers in late spring.

How will an MCAP award appear on my financial aid offer?
You will see your grants and scholarships on your Award Details page on MyFinAid. If you are covered by the plan, you may not see a specific MCAP grant award on your Award Details page on MyFinAid, but you will have a special message on MyFinAid that you are participating in the Berkeley Middle Class Access Plan.

More Questions? Contact us!

More Information

For more information, please see the following:

 




Berkeley Middle Class Access Plan