AB 540 Guide

For more resources and information, check out this video and visit the Undocumented Student Resources webpage.

Understanding AB 540

AB 540 is a state law that allows undocumented students to pay the same tuition that other California residents pay at public colleges, provided they meet certain qualifications. This FAQ explains how it works.

What does it mean to be undocumented?
Can an undocumented student go to college?
Yes! Undocumented students may attend any California college or university where they are admitted.
- In addition, if they meet the requirements of a state law known as AB 540, undocumented students do not have to pay the much higher tuition rate that usually applies to out-of-state students.
- Under another law, known as the California Dream Act, undocumented students who qualify for AB 540 status can apply for state financial aid.
How do I qualify to pay in-state tuition?
In order to qualify under AB 540, an undocumented student must have
- Attended or completed the equivalent of three years of high school, community college or adult school in California
- Graduated or obtained the equivalent of a high school diploma or community college degree, or completed the requirements for transfer to a UC or CSU
- Submitted an AB 540 affidavit, also known as a Nonresident Tuition Exemption Request form, to the college that you plan to attend. On this affidavit, you must indicate that you meet the two previous requirements and that you have filed an application to legalize your immigration status – or that you will file an application as soon as you are eligible to do so.
- See below for the Steps to Get AB 540 Status at De Anza

Steps to Get AB 540 Status at De Anza

If you meet the qualifications listed above, you can follow these steps to get AB 540 status.

Apply for Admission

Follow the steps on the Apply and Register webpage

Submit the AB 540 Form

Visit the Student Forms webpage of the Admissions and Records Office, and click to open the link for the AB 540 (Nonresident Tuition Exemption Request) form.

This is an online form, so there's no need to print it or scan it. You can fill it out and submit it on a computer or phone.

Still have questions?

If you have questions about applying for admission as an AB 540 student, please contact the Admissions and Records Office by emailing daresidency@deanza.edu.

How to Get Financial Aid as an Undocumented Student

Undocumented students who qualify for AB 540 status are eligible to apply for state financial aid as well as for private scholarships to attend California colleges or universities. This is guaranteed under a state law known as the California Dream Act.
However, undocumented students are not eligible for federal aid.
To learn more, visit our California Dream Act webpage.

For More Information

Download this one-page AB540 Guide for Undocumented Students.
Check out our Undocumented Student Resources webpage.
Visit the HEFAS (Higher Education for AB 540 Students) office at De Anza, where you will find peer advisers, free resources and a supportive community for undocumented and AB 540 students.