Guidance for colleges on the state’s new Ability to Benefit (ATB) process was released by the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office (CCCCO) in July. ATB offers a way for adult learners working toward a high school diploma to access federal financial aid for college classes.
The California ATB state process removes barriers for students. Before the new process was approved, a California student without a high school diploma had to either complete six credits of college classes or pass a qualifying exam to access federal aid. The July CCCCO guidance memo explains the new requirements and how colleges can opt-in to participate.
In addition to ATB, colleges can further support adult learners through dual enrollment. Adult dual enrollment is a key transition strategy for noncredit community college and adult school students, providing a bridge to certificate and degree programs. It’s growing and has increased by 18.5% since 2019, when it was enabled by SB 554 legislation. Naomi Castro, CLP Chief Program Officer, was a guest presenter on a May 2025 CCCCO webinar focused on adult dual enrollment and ATB. (Access the summary and recording.)
Interest in ATB and adult dual enrollment is also growing across the U.S. The Office of Career, Technical, and Adult Education (OCTAE) recently launched Dual Enrollment for Adult Learners (DEAL), a national initiative to support states in developing and implementing an ATB process. The initiative is staffed by MSG, World Education, and RTI International. CLP Executive Director Linda Collins serves on the advisory group for DEAL.
To learn more about dual enrollment for adult learners, see the Adult Dual Enrollment section of CLP’s user guide, Transitioning Adult Learners to College. Check back later this fall—we’re updating the user guide to include the new California ATB state process.