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 2026-27 must submit a GPA Verification form to the California Student Aid Commission by March 2, 2026 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 2026-27 California Dream Act Application no later than March 2. 2026

• Students can continue to apply on or after the priority filing deadline for other limited financial aid consideration.

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

  • 2025-26 academic year, use the 2023 tax return information
  • 2026-27 academic year, use the 2024 tax return information

• Submit all financial aid documents the published deadlines for the academic year. 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.

Learn More

• California Dream Act Frequently Asked Questions (PDF)
• Undocumented Student Services
• Resources for Undocumented Students (AB 540)
• Scholarships Open to Undocumented Students (PDF)
• Scholarships Open To Students Regardless of Immigration Status (PDF)
• Income Generation Options for Undocumented Students Toolkit (PDF)