Paying for College
Remember: All of the information you submit on the CA Dream Act is NOT shared with the federal government.
Financial Aid for California Students
If you are an undocumented student, you may still qualify for financial aid in California. Eligible students can apply through the California Dream Act Application (CADAA), which is managed by the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC).
Your information is protected. Information submitted through the California Dream Act Application is not shared with the federal government for immigration enforcement, and student education records are protected under FERPA.
What is the California Dream Act?
The California Dream Act allows eligible undocumented students and other eligible nonresident students to apply for state-based financial aid and certain institutional scholarships at California colleges and universities. This can include aid such as the California College Promise Grant, Cal Grants, and campus-based or institutional aid, depending on student eligibility and college processes.
Who may qualify?
You may be eligible if you meet AB 540 or related nonresident tuition exemption requirements. In general, eligibility is tied to California attendance and completion requirements, plus submitting the required nonresident tuition exemption affidavit with your college.
Students should check with Gavilan College to confirm whether they meet the current AB 540, AB 2000, or SB 68 criteria before applying.
How to apply
- Submit your AB 540 affidavit or nonresident tuition exemption form to your college if required.
- Complete the California Dream Act Application at CADAA or Finaical Aid page during the application cycle.
- Follow up with your Undocu-liaisan at omacias@gavilan.edu or (408)-848-4837 for any additional documents or next steps.
Privacy and support
FERPA protects the privacy of student education records, including for undocumented students, and colleges generally cannot release that information without student consent except in limited circumstances such as a court order. Gavilan can also use this page to direct students to a campus contact in Financial Aid and the Undocumented Student Center for one-on-one support.
Scholarships
Gavilan College offers scholarships each year to help cover tuition, books, and other costs, including for undocumented and AB 540 students. Check the scholarship webpage regularly for current opportunities and deadlines, and submit all materials before the final date to be considered. There are several scholarships available just for you. Click below to apply now!
Gavilan College Scholarships Immigrants Rising Scholarships
Deadlines/When to apply for scholarships
FAFSA and CADAA for the 2026-27 (Fall 2026, Spring 2027 and Summer 2027) school year is OPEN! Apply today!
The FAFSA and CADAA deadline for the 2025-2026 academic year is June 30, 2026. This means that students have from November 14, 2024, to June 30, 2026, to file their FAFSA application for the 2025-2026 (Fall 2025, Spring 2026 and Summer 2026)school year.