Resources for ab 540
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This document provides information for undocumented students about accessing higher education in California. It explains that undocumented students can attend college under AB540 as long as they meet the requirements of attending a California high school for 3+ years and graduating. While undocumented students cannot receive federal or state financial aid, the document provides tips on applying for scholarships and other funding options. It outlines the process for applying to California's public college systems and provides resources for undocumented students.
Resources for ab 540
- 1. Resources for AB540/Undocumented Students Accessing & Financing YOUR Higher Education
- 2. By the end of today you will know… What does it mean to be undocumented? If I am undocumented, can I go to college? If I am undocumented, can I apply for financial aid? What is the process of applying for college for undocumented students? Now that I know, what should/can I do?
- 3. What does it mean to be undocumented? If you are not a U.S. citizen, legal permanent resident, do not possess a green card, visa, or other legal documentation, you are considered undocumented. Who are undocumented students? Undocumented students include those born outside of the United States, many of whom have lived in this country for a significant portion of their lives, and who reside here without the legal permission of the federal government.
- 4. If I am undocumented, can I go to college? You can go to any college or university in California, if you meet the admissions requirements. You cannot be denied admission based on your immigration status. YES!
- 5. California State Law Assisting Undocumented Students AB540, signed into law on October 12, 2001, authorizes undocumented students who meet specific criteria to pay in-state tuition at California’s public colleges and universities. Any undocumented student, except a person in nonimmigrant status, who meets the requirements, shall be exempt from paying nonresident tuition at all public colleges and universities in California.
- 6. AB540: The Requirements Must have attended a California high school for 3 years or more, Must have graduated from a California high school or attained the equivalent (GED), Register or currently be enrolled at a public California college or university. Students must also file an affidavit stating they meet the requirements and will apply for legal residency as soon as they are eligible to do so. This affidavit is kept confidential by the college/university and by law is not to be shared with BCIS (formerly INS).
- 7. AB540: The Facts AB540 does not apply to private colleges and universities. AB540 does not grant legal residency to qualifying students. AB540 does not grant state or federal financial aid eligibility. AB540 only provides an exemption to the requirements to pay nonresident tuition
- 8. If I am undocumented, can I apply for financial aid? As an undocumented student, you do not qualify for state or federal financial aid. (If you are in the process of obtaining residency you may already be eligible for aid. ) HOW CAN YOU PAY FOR COLLEGE? Use creative ways to fundraise (i.e. raffles, donations, etc! Apply for scholarships that do not require U.S. citizenship or residency. Evaluate your personal situation and make decisions based on your needs.
- 9. Scholarship Tips for Undocumented/AB540 Students Scholarship providers have their own eligibility requirements. Make sure to obtain current information by contacting each provider directly. Scholarship monies are limited. Do not rely heavily on these. Begin looking for scholarships as early as possible. Search within your school, school district and local community. Find creative ways to fund your education (i.e. ask family members, teachers, local business or large companies) Network. Get to know current AB540 support groups in high school, community and the college you will be attending.
- 10. What is the process of applying for college for undocumented students? Talk to your college counselor as early as possible to receive all the information you need about planning for college including college applications, entrance exams, fee waivers, cost of attendance, and available resources for undocumented students. Talk to AB540 College students to get advice about applying to and attending college. Research scholarships and other ways to pay for college. Know that you have a right to higher education and it is going to take much work and dedication on your part. You can do it!
- 11. California Four Systems of Higher Education Community Colleges California State University University of California Private Colleges & Universities. Each system has its own requirements, such as A-G requirements Entrance Exams (SAT, ACT) GPA Applications deadlines Create your own educational plan!
- 12. Useful Websites: www.ucop.edu UC www.csumentor.edu CSU www.laccd.edu Los Angeles CC www.cccco.edu California CC www.salef.org Scholarships www.maldef.org Scholarships
- 14. Now that I know, what should/can I do? Get involved! There are many organizations that are working to pass legislation and advocate on behalf of students. (i.e. DREAM ACT, California DREAM ACT) Connect with AB540 Student Groups Create your own AB540 Student group in your school if one does not already exist.
Editor's Notes
- #2: Welcome. My name is ______________. You are here today because you wish to continue your education after high school, but you need information on how to do so? I am right?
- #3: These questions reflect the information you will need as an undocumented student pursuing higher education.
- #4: Refer to facts of undocumented students on page 2 of resource guide. These demonstrate the contributions, need, and hard work of undocumented students.
- #5: How many of you have applied for admission already? GREAT!
- #6: AB540 makes college much more affordable for qualifying undocumented students, by allowing them to pay the in-state tuition. This can be a great difference. For example at a community college such as LACC, tuition is currently $26 per unit for residents, and almost $200 per unit for non-residents. (Explain nonimmigrant status): students with visas (pg 5 has listing of visas) do nor qualify for ab540. Students with expired visas who have decided to stay in California, may qualify as long as all requirements are met.
- #7: Refer to page 5 of resource guide. Pages 5-8 have FAQ’s re: AB540 requirements. Go over affidavit on page 6.
- #8: Review the FAQs in the resource guide
- #9: Talk to your college counselor, trusted teacher or other adult that can provide resources to help you pay for college. Acknowledge your reality. If you decide to attend a four year university make sure you will be able to pay the tuition and many fees. You may be able to save money by attending a community college and transferring. It is your decision.
- #10: Refer students to scholarship list on page 10. MALDEF also distributes list, visit www.maldef.org.
- #12: Remember to plan ahead and early. As an undocumented student you will have to work harder than other students. See Page 9 of the resource guide for detailed information. Talk to your college counselor. Create your own educational plan.
- #15: Pg