Associated Student Body (ASB)

California law allows students in California’s public schools to raise money and make decisions about how they will spend this money. Student organizations established to raise and spend money on behalf of students are called Associated Student Body organizations, or ASBs. ASBs must be made up of current students and be located at the school where the funds are maintained. The funds raised and spent by student organizations are called associated student body funds or ASB funds.

In the minds of public school officials, parents and the general public, ASB funds may be thought of as small proceeds from a few bake sales, magazine sales, dances or car washes a year. However, in many cases, ASB funds have become big business for student organizations and fund much more than people realize. An ASB at a large high school or a community college may raise millions of dollars a year.

ASB organizations and the management of ASB funds present students with opportunities not only to raise and spend money, but also to learn the principles of operating a small business and acquire leadership skills while making a contribution to their school and fellow students and improving their own educational experience. As students and staff work together to plan projects and activities, students also learn project planning.

More information on ASB Accounting Manual, Fraud Prevention Guide and Desk Reference can be found on FCMAT