Governor Gavin Newsom announced today that California Community Colleges have received approval from the U.S. Department of Education to enable students without a high school diploma to access Title IV financial aid. Through the Ability to Benefit (ATB) program, this approval opens the door for four million Californians to pursue higher education, job training, and better employment opportunities, the Governor’s Office stated.
Students will also receive support through counseling, tutoring, and academic workshops. Governor Newsom emphasized the state’s commitment to ensuring access to higher education for all Californians, helping them reach their full potential and secure higher-paying jobs, the Governor’s Office stated.