Undocumented Students
Steps to College Admission
Undocumented students may be admitted and attend California public universities, colleges and community colleges with the passage of Assembly Bill 540.
With AB 540, students can attend public colleges and universities (Community College, CSU, UC). AB540- allows qualified immigrant students to pay in-state tuition fees. Immigrant students cannot be denied access to colleges or universities.
To qualify for AB 540, an undocumented student must:
- Have attended a high school in California for 3 years or more (adult school students may qualify depending on the college/university); AND
- Have graduated from a California high school or received the equivalent of (GED); AND
- File an affidavit with the public state college or university stating that he or she will file an application to obtain legal permanent residency as soon as he or she is eligible.
- Undocumented students in California do NOT qualify for financial aid and AB 540 DOES NOT provide any financial aid to immigrant students. Students will have to pay for the full cost of their college education.
Confidentiality:
AB540 requires that state colleges and universities keep student information confidential. A student’s immigration status cannot and will not be reported to the Department of Immigration or any other third party.
Immigration Concerns:
Immigrant students who have questions about legal residency should consult an immigration attorney.
Local Resources:
For legal advice about residency, citizenship or deportation issues contact:
Community Legal Services
250 E. Center
Anaheim, CA 92805
http://www.legal-aid.com/index.html
Hours: 9-5 Monday - Friday Phone (714) 571-5200
Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles
1 (800) 399-4529