Dream Act (CADAA)

Step 1. Do you Qualify for AB540: Expanded In-State Tuition Eligibility in CA?

The CA In-State Tuition Tool helps students determine whether they have the attendance and degree requirements to apply for in-state tuition in California. It also provides information on what students need in order to meet eligibility in the future. 

Visit the following page to review requirements for AB540: Quick Guide to AB540 

Complete and submit the California Nonresident Tuition Exemption Request (AB540) form to the Admissions & Records Office. 

Step 2. What is the California Dream Act Application (CADAA)? 

The CADAA is a state-based financial aid application for eligible undocumented students that was established in Spring 2012 by the CA Student Aid Commission. 

Eligibility:  Student must: 

1. Apply for the CADAA 
2. Submit by March 2nd every year (May 2nd for the 2024-2025 year) 
3. Additional eligibility also includes: 
   1. Meet AB 540/ AB 2000/ SB 68 eligibility (see Step 1) 
   2. Demonstrate financial need 
   3. Meet GPA requirements, and income and asset ceilings for Cal grant eligibility 
   4. Other requirements, as determined by the institution 

It is important to note that undocumented students DO NOT need DACA to apply for the CADAA. DACA is a federal program, while the CADAA is a state-based financial aid program. 

Benefits:  

The CADAA allows AB 540/ SB 68 students to apply for: 

1. State-funded grants (including CA College Promise Grant, Cal Grants, State grants, UC Grants & DREAM Loans (UC & CSU only) 
2. State programs such as EOPS 
3. Certain scholarships administered by the public institution 

Process  

1. Apply for the CA Dream Act at https://dream.csac.ca.gov/  
2. If necessary, complete any additional application materials required by your school (e.g. CA & College Promise Grants, institutional scholarships, etc.). 
3. Review award offer on Self-Service. 
4. Confirm and accept Cal Grant, if applicable. 
5. Resolve any outstanding holds on Self-Service. 
6. Ensure AB 540/SB 68 classification is approved by Admissions & Records. 

STEP BY STEP TO APPLY FOR THE CADAA: