College & career readiness in California
California doesn't mandate one statewide plan — instead it measures schools on the College/Career Indicator (CCI) dashboard and requires every senior to complete the FAFSA or CADAA (or waive out). Golden State Pathways is pouring funding into career pathways.
The requirements at a glance
The moving parts every California counseling team is tracking today — usually across spreadsheets, PDFs, and a filing cabinet.
Work-based learning & financial aid in California
Work-based learning
Golden State Pathways and K12 Strong Workforce fund pathway programs with embedded work-based learning; regional consortia coordinate employer partnerships.
FAFSA & financial aid
FAFSA or CA Dream Act Application completion is required for graduating seniors (with an opt-out) — schools must track and confirm it.
What Atlara does for California districts
FAFSA tracking that isn't a spreadsheet
Atlara's FAFSA dashboard shows exactly which seniors have filed, started, or opted out — the AB 469 compliance view counselors actually need.
CCI evidence in one place
Dual enrollment, pathway completion, assessments, and applications are tracked per student, so 'prepared' isn't a surprise at dashboard time.
Pathways with work-based learning
Employer partners, placements, and hour logs support Golden State Pathways' WBL expectations.
A college list built for CSU/UC
Students explore 200+ institutions including every UC and CSU, with cost and outcome data families understand.
Policy details above are a planning summary, not legal guidance — confirm current requirements with the California Department of Education.