Courses in Program of Study (CPOS) is a federal regulation that requires federal financial aid to only pay for courses that apply toward a student’s officially declared degree, certificate, or transfer program. Beginning in Fall 2026, the SMCCCD Financial Aid Offices will review all courses students are enrolled in each term to determine whether they align with the student’s declared Program of Study (POS). Financial aid eligible units and financial aid awards may be adjusted based on this review.

Course eligibility for financial aid purposes is determined based on federal Title IV regulations, officially approved curriculum, and published program requirements. Enrollment in a course does not guarantee financial aid eligibility for that course.