Firefighter Candidate Testing Center (FCTC) Financial Aid Awards

The California Fire Foundation (CFF) was founded by firefighters for firefighters. An important part of their mission is to ensure all persons have an equal opportunity to pursue employment within the fire service, regardless of financial situation. Formed in 1987 by the California Professional Firefighters, the CFF’s mission also includes an array of survivor assistance projects and community initiatives. CFF also designed, built, and maintains a dedicated memorial to fallen firefighters at the State Capitol in Sacramento. Every year, CFF holds a memorial ceremony to commemorate the bravery of those who lost their lives in the line of duty. 

CFF is committed to firefighter candidates who are experiencing financial hardship and has partnered with the Firefighter Candidate Testing Center (FCTC) to provide financial assistance to cover all event fees associated with the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT), the FCTC Written Test, and associated preparation courses to help candidates succeed in their testing. There are several avenues available to qualify for financial aid including, but not limited to, proof of receiving unemployment insurance. 

CFF Financial Aid Award Covers the Following: 

(2) CPAT Practices @ $30 each  
(1) CPAT Test and (2) Orientations @ $160  
(2) FCTC Written Test Preparation Courses @ $25  (either in-person, online, or both)
(1) FCTC Written Test @ $50 

Financial Aid Confidentiality 

The California Fire Foundation and the Firefighter Candidate Testing Center respect our candidates’ privacy. All applicant information and financial aid documents are kept confidential. Financial Aid recipients can rest assured that hiring agencies will have no knowledge of their award and their personal financial information will never be given to HR or Fire Department personnel. 

How to Apply 

Please click here to view and apply for the California Fire Foundation Financial Aid Award.

Before beginning this application, please make sure to have the following:

  • FCTC Account (with FCTC ID number avaliable)
  • Documentation to verify eligibility:
    • Recipient of Government Financial Assistance: Unemployment insurance (UI) Benefits, CalWORKS, CalFRESH, Medi-Cal or Supplemental Security Income (SSI/SSP)
    • Income based Eligibility: Proof of income

Notification of Award 

Applicants receive notification of Award within 5 business days. CFF stands ready to assist applicants who are denied, to see if they may qualify under a different option. 

California Fire Foundation 

To learn more about the California Fire Foundation please click here. For a PDF version of the application please click here. 

Questions? 

Please contact the California Fire Foundation at (800) 890-3213 and ask for the Financial Aid Department.