* Grants: These are gifts that don't need to be repaid. They are based on financial need and are awarded through the federal government (like Pell Grants), the state of California (Cal Grants), and UCLA itself (institutional grants).
* Scholarships: These are also gifts, but they're often merit-based, awarded for academic achievement, athletic ability, talent, or specific characteristics. Some are offered by UCLA, while others come from external organizations.
* Loans: Unlike grants and scholarships, loans must be repaid with interest. These can be federal loans (subsidized and unsubsidized Stafford Loans, PLUS Loans), or private loans from banks or other lenders. Federal loans generally have more favorable terms.
* Work-study: This program allows eligible students to work part-time on campus to earn money to help cover their educational expenses. The jobs are coordinated through UCLA's financial aid office.
The specific type and amount of aid a student receives depends on their individual financial need (as determined by the FAFSA or CA Dream Act Application), merit, and eligibility for specific programs. The financial aid package a student receives will usually be a combination of these different aid types.