The California Dream Act became law through the passage of two Assembly Bills – AB130 and AB131. They allow students who meet AB540 criteria to become eligible to apply for state-funded financial aid.
Criteria
- You must have attended a CA high school for at least 3 years.
- You must have graduated or attained the equivalent (usually passing the GED or California HS Proficiency exam).
- You must have filed for legal immigration status or will file as soon as possible. It is a legal requirement that you file an affidavit with LBCC Admissions and Records swearing that this is true.
*If you meet these criteria visit LBCC Admissions and Records Office and complete the AB-540 Affidavit / CA Nonresident Exemption Request and attach official transcripts.
Are all AB540 students undocumented immigrants?
No. Citizens and permanent residents who would otherwise be classified as residents of other states who meet AB540 criteria can qualify as California residents for tuition purposes and any financial aid benefits.
I meet the AB540 criteria. What financial aid programs can I apply for?
Since January 2013 you can qualify for a Fee Waiver (Board of Governor’s Grant or BOGG) that will pay for your classes if you meet all other criteria. For more information on Fee Waivers see “Apply for a Fee Waiver Only” on this site.
You may also qualify for a Cal Grant by applying for the California Dream Application (see links below).
At this time you aren’t eligible for any federal financial aid.
How do I apply for these programs?
There are two ways to apply for a Fee Waiver if you are undocumented. If you qualify for the Fee Waiver either way it means your enrollment fees will be paid for the Fall 2014, Winter 2015, Spring 2015, and Summer 2015 terms. You’ll need to reapply for the 2015-16 school year.
The California Dream Act Application is available now online at the CA Dream Act web site (see link below). If you complete the California Dream Application we’ll be sent the results automatically and award you a Fee Waiver if you qualify.
The Special Application for AB540 Students Under the California Dream Act can be submitted online to the LBCC Financial Aid office or printed and submitted in person (see links below).
AB540 students who have a Social Security Number and meet the citizenship requirements can submit a FAFSA or a standard Fee Waiver Application. You must be a U.S. Citizen, permanent resident or on a special visa such as parolee. The FAFSA is better as you’ll be considered for more financial aid programs including the Cal Grant in 2014-15.
To apply for the Cal Grant, complete a 2014-15 California Dream Act Application. It will be available after January 1, 2014. This will be used for Fee Waiver consideration for the 2014-15 school year as well.
Remember: Documented or undocumented, you must submit a CA Nonresident Exemption Request” to LBCC Admissions & Records.
Applications for AB 540 Undocumented Students
Visit the CSAC California Dream Act website for more information.