California Dream Act

The California DREAM (Dream, Relief and Education for Alien Minors) Act includes two state laws, AB 130 and AB 131, that support access to higher education for undocumented students. The California DREAM Act allows undocumented and nonresident documented students who meet certain provisions to apply for and receive private scholarships funded through public universities, state administered financial aid, University grants, community college fee waivers and Cal Grants.

AB 130

This law allows eligible AB 540 students to apply for and receive scholarships​ derived from non-state funds at all California public colleges and universities. These include scholarships funded through private donors, alumni contributions and individual departmental efforts. For scholarship opportunities, please visit our scholarship information page.

AB 131

This law allows eligible AB 540 students to access state-funded financial aid programs such as Cal Grants, university grants and Board of Governor's Fee waivers. The California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) developed the California Dream Act Application to determine the financial need of students who are not citizens, legal permanent residents or eligible non-citizens. Students may complete a Dream Act Application online in order to determine eligibility to receive stat financial aid.

For detailed information and frequently asked questions, please refer to the California Student Aid Commission.