What is FACE? | Diocese of Oakland

FACE provides need-based tuition grants to students who attend Catholic schools in the Diocese of Oakland.

FACE was founded in 1978 and helps students regardless of religion, gender, ethnicity, or citizenship. We hope to support over 700 students every school year. The recent success of our annual Gala and donated funds increases the number of grants given each year.

The Diocese of Oakland includes 36 elementary and nine secondary Catholic schools throughout the East Bay.

Apply for a FACE grant

FACTS about FACE Bringing hope to the next generation

The promise of Catholic education is the full development of the whole person through faith formation opportunities and a rigorous academic curriculum that instills students with the community values of hard work, faith, respect, self-worth, compassion, and service.

FACE provides critical student support resources, for many, as the first generation of their families to receive a quality education that paves the way for higher education opportunities and beyond.

FACE families come from neighborhoods where adversity is high. Sadly, in these same communities, hope, and the expectation of a change for the future, is low. With the gift of a Catholic education, students are not only able to endure and overcome many obstacles, but grow and thrive in the years to come.

How can I apply for a 2026-2027 FACE grant?

Applications will open on January 1, 2026.

The application period for the 2026-2027 academic year will be open January 1 through March 31, 2026.

Applications are accepted through each student's school in early January of each year. Links to an online application will be made available in the "Applying for a Grant?" section at the top of this page. Families with students in elementary (K-8) and high schools (9-12) should apply through both schools. FACE does not award Pre-K or TK students

If you have any questions, please contact Terri Porter, Director of FACE at 510.267.8314 or tporter@oakdiocese.org

Do I apply to FACE directly?

Do I need to be Catholic?

What do I need to provide for my application to be complete?

You must complete an application that includes required income verification and/or other financial documentation by March 31, 2026. It is important that you select Family Aid-Catholic Education by "checking the FACE box" when completing your grant and aid application on the FACTS website. Failure to do so will result in your application not being processed by the FACE office.

Given the volume of applications, early submission is encouraged and ensures timely completion of the review process. Some applications received by March 31, 2026, require additional documentation as requested by FACTS. Additional or missing information must be confirmed as received by FACTS or the application will be denied. Application deadlines are firm.

Who determines eligibility?

When do I receive a grant?

How much is a FACE grant?

I don’t know if a FACE grant will cover the assistance I need. Are there other forms of support?

Should I send the information to FACTS directly to ensure it arrives on time?

Will exceptions be made for circumstances beyond your control that prevented the meeting of deadlines?

How will I be notified following my application?

Can I receive funding from other sources in combination with a FACE grant?

For elementary school grants, it is intended that a student only receives a grant from either FACE or the Basic Fund, not both. The local elementary school may augment the FACE award if they have the resources to do so.

In the case of high school grantees, additional funds may be awarded. The amount of additional funding is determined by the high school. Families are encouraged to consult directly with the high school financial aid administrator to confirm the total award amount.

The FACE Application period for the 2026-2027 School Year is open between January 1, 2026, through March 31, 2026.