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California Dream Act

The California Dream Act

Students who qualify for the AB540 fee exemption and are not able to file a FAFSA can now apply for certain types of financial aid by completing the California Dream Act application.

Undocumented students of all ethnicities and nationalities can find a safe environment and supportive community at the University of California. Whether you’re thinking about applying to UC or already a student, there are various programs to help you transition to and succeed at UC. Please review the University of California's resources for undocumented students.

Important Facts

  • You must file a California Dream Act Application before each academic year to be considered for financial aid.

  • The California Dream application opens in December.

  • The UC San Diego school code for your California Dream Act Application is 001317.

  • Students applying for the Cal Grant for the first time in 2024-25 must submit a GPA Verification form to the California Student Aid Commission by March 4, 2024. The form is available online at csac.ca.gov.

  • State and UC San Diego financial aid includes grants, loans and work-study (with a valid work authorization).

  • To receive priority funding, file your California Dream Act Application no later than the April 2 state deadline. UC San Diego strongly encourages you to file your application no later than March 4.

  • Students can continue to apply on or after April 3 for other limited financial aid consideration.

  • The California Dream Act Application requires the previous’ year’s tax information.

    • 2024-2025 academic year, use the 2022 tax return information.

  • You may need to verify your tax information with an IRS Tax Transcript.

  • For 2023-24 to receive priority funding, submit all financial aid documents by May 1 for Continuing Students and June 15 for New First-year and Transfer Students . The Financial Aid and Scholarships Office may ask you for additional documents after you file your California Dream Act Application. Check your UC San Diego e-mail account often, and make sure you submit any additional documents or clear any California Dream Act Application rejects by the published deadlines.

FA TV

FA TV

Higher Education videos for Financial Aid & Student Services.

FA TV Videos

YouTube

UC YouTube Resources

Videos focus on applying for financial aid and offer tips on other methods of financing your education.

UC Videos

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Got questions? Use this resource to find answers to all your frequently asked questions.

Frequently Asked Questions