The mission of the California Student Aid Commission (Commission) is to make education beyond high school financially accessible to all Californians. The Commission ensures the effective and efficient administration of federal and state authorized financial aid, including grants and student loans. In addition, the Commission has responsibility to provide leadership on financial aid issues and to make public policy recommendations concerning financial aid programs.

The Commission is composed of 15 members: 11 members appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate, 2 members appointed by the Senate Rules Committee, and 2 members appointed by the Speaker of the Assembly. Members serve four-year terms except the two student members, appointed by the Governor, who serve two-year terms.