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Kindergarten to College Program (K2C)

How to access, complete, and submit an application for the Kindergarten to College (K2C) program.

What is the Kindergarten to College (K2C) Program?

The Kindergarten to College (K2C) program is an initiative by Oakland Promise designed to foster a college-bound mindset among elementary school students in Oakland.

Since 2016, every kindergartner and 5th grader in Oakland public schools has had $100 set aside in their Oakland Promise Scholarship account. Additionally, families have the option to open a family-owned college savings account and earn a one-time $75 incentive. Eligible public school students can also receive a $500 college savings account from the State of California through CalKIDS.

The program aims to build a college-going culture through workshops, college visits, and community partnerships.

How do I apply for K2C?

To apply for the K2C program:

  1. Sign Up for an Account. Visit the K2C Sign-Up Portal to create an account and view your Oakland Promise Scholarship.

  2. Open a College Savings Account: Choose between two options:

    • my529 College Savings Account: Ideal if you and your child have a Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), and you are currently banked. This option allows for interest-bearing accounts.

    • Self-Help Federal Credit Union (SHFCU) Student Savings Account: Suitable if you do not have an SSN or ITIN, and prefer to visit a physical bank to make cash or check deposits. This option offers non-interest bearing accounts unless a tax ID is provided.

    For detailed guidance, refer to the my529 Application Step-by-Step Guide or complete the Self-Help Federal Credit Union survey.

  3. Earn $75 Incentive: By opening a college savings account through K2C, your family can earn a one-time $75 incentive.

How long does it take to receive funds from K2C?

After enrolling in the K2C program and opening a college savings account, the $75 incentive is typically credited to your account within a few weeks. The processing time may vary, so it's advisable to check with the K2C team for specific timelines.

What do the application steps look like?

  1. Go to the K2C Sign-Up Portal and create an account to view your Oakland Promise Scholarship.

  2. Select either the my529 College Savings Account or the SHFCU Student Savings Account based on your preferences and eligibility.

  3. Follow the respective application processes for the chosen account option.

  4. Upon successful account setup, your family will receive a one-time $75 incentive.

  5. Engage in college and career readiness workshops, attend college visits, and take part in community partnerships to build a college-going culture.

What documentation is required when I fill out my application?

The documentation required may vary based on the college savings account option you choose:

  • For my529 College Savings Account:

    • Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) for you and your child.

    • Banking information for direct deposit or check contributions.

  • For SHFCU Student Savings Account:

    • Tax Identification Number (TIN) if available.

    • Proof of identity and residency.

    • Ability to visit a physical bank branch for account setup and deposits.

Please ensure all documents are current and legible to avoid delays in processing.

Common FAQs

  1. Who is eligible for the K2C program?

    All students enrolled in Oakland public schools, starting from kindergarten and continuing through 5th grade, are eligible for the K2C program.

  2. Is there a cost to participate in K2C?

    No, participation in the K2C program is free for all eligible families.

  3. Can I open a college savings account if I don't have a Social Security Number?

    Yes, if you do not have an SSN or ITIN, you can open a Student Savings Account through Self-Help Federal Credit Union.

  4. How do I earn the $75 incentive?

    By opening a college savings account through K2C, your family will receive a one-time $75 incentive.

  5. What happens if my child changes schools?

    The K2C program is designed to follow students throughout their education in Oakland public schools. Your child's scholarship and college savings account will remain active regardless of school changes.

Who do I contact about my application status?

For assistance or to inquire about your application status:

  • Email: Contact Form

  • Phone: (510) 858-6054

  • Mailing Address: Oakland Promise, 484 9th Street, Oakland, CA 94607

For more information, visit the Oakland Promise Kindergarten to College page.

If you have any questions or would like to speak to a Mirza Applications specialist, pleas email support@heymirza.com.