CA AB1997

Establishes a voluntary pilot program administered by the Office of the Chancellor of the California Community Colleges to increase student participation in state and federal financial aid programs, operating until January 1, 2014.

Selects no more than 10 community college campuses to participate, with geographic, economic, and demographic diversity considered in the selection process.

Targets students who complete fee waiver applications but do not submit FAFSA, and students who receive no campus, state, or federal financial aid.

Requires the Office of the Chancellor to identify strategies and best practices for increasing FAFSA submissions and developing new approaches to expand student participation in financial aid programs beyond fee waivers.

Mandates the Office of the Chancellor report findings to the Legislative Analyst's Office by January 10, 2013, which must then report to the Legislature on pilot program results and recommend statewide expansion.