CA AB791

Requires postsecondary institutions participating in the Cal Grant Program to develop and implement cost of attendance (COA) policies and adjustment processes consistent with federal standards by the 2026-27 academic year

Mandates that off-campus student housing budgets be set at no less than half the median rent for a two-bedroom apartment in the institution's metropolitan area

Requires institutions to allow COA adjustments for expenses including housing, transportation, computers, uninsured medical costs, dependent care, and disability-related expenses that exceed standard budget allowances

Institutions must complete COA adjustment request reviews within 14 calendar days, accept requests at any time during enrollment, provide second reviews upon request, and waive third-party documentation requirements when students cannot reasonably obtain them

Institutions must prominently display COA calculation methodology and adjustment process information on their websites and in financial aid award letters