CA Dream Act
At Chabot College, we believe that every student deserves access to education, regardless of their immigration status. Undocumented students, including those with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status, are vital members of our community.
Through programs like the California Dream Act Application (CADAA) and AB 540, many undocumented students can access state financial aid, scholarships, and in-state tuition rates. Even if you don’t qualify for these programs, there are other resources available to help you succeed.
School Code: 00116200
What Is the California Dream Act Application (CADAA)?
The California Dream Act Application (CADAA) allows eligible undocumented students to apply for state financial aid in California. This application opens doors to financial aid programs like the California College Promise Grant, Cal Grants, and Dreamer-specific scholarships.
Information provided on the California Dream Act Application will not be shared with federal databases. Student and parent information, is proctected by the same privacy and information security safeguards that apply to all other state financial aid applicants.
Who Is the CADAA For?
The CADAA is for undocumented students, including those with DACA status, who meet certain residency and educational requirements (such as AB 540 eligibility). It serves as an alternative to the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for students who cannot apply for federal aid due to their immigration status.
CADAA Eligibility
To be eligible, you must:
- Meet AB 540 requirements.
- Be an undocumented student, DACA recipient, or otherwise ineligible for FAFSA.
- Enroll in an eligible California public or private college.
Understanding AB 540
California Assembly Bill AB 540 is a California law passed in 2001 allows undocumented students to pay in-state tuition rates at California public colleges and universities instead of higher out-of-state tuition. It also enables students to apply for state financial aid programs like the CADAA.
Eligibility Requirements
Students who meet the AB 540 criteria below are encouraged to apply for the CA Dream Act application:
| Attendance Requirement | Completion of a Course of Study |
|---|---|
OR
|
|
In order to qualify for AB 540 status, students must submit the California Nonresident Tuition Exemption Request form to the Chabot Office of Admissions & Records at cc-dreamcenter@chabotcollege.edu along with official transcripts/attendance records (high school, adult school, and/or community college) that verify requirements 1 and 2 listed above.
For more information, please view Dreamers - AB540 and SB68
How to Apply for the California Dream Act
Before you start, have the following documents ready:
- Your or your parents’ most recent tax returns or income information (if applicable).
- Social Security Number (only if you have DACA). If not, leave it blank or use all zeroes (000-00-0000).
- Your Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), if you or your parents file taxes with one.
- Go to dream.csac.ca.gov.
- If it’s your first time applying, create a CADAA account using a secure email address.
- Fill out the application with accurate personal, family, and financial information.
- IMPORTANT NOTE: When creating your CADAA account, ensure the name you use matches the name on your Chabot College application. Mismatched names can cause delays in processing your financial aid.
- Enter Chabot College’s school code: 00116200 to ensure your financial aid information is sent to us.
- While you can submit after this date, applying by April 2 ensures priority consideration for programs like Cal Grants.
- Log in to your account at dream.csac.ca.gov to check your status and make corrections if necessary.
After submitting your CADAA, create a Webgrants 4 Students account to track your financial aid status. This platform helps you:
- Monitor your Cal Grant award status.
- Confirm your school of attendance (e.g., Chabot College).
- Access important updates about your financial aid.
How to Create an Account:
- Visit Webgrants 4 Students.
- Use the same email address and information you entered on your CADAA.
Follow the instructions to set up your account and log in.
- After submitting your CADAA, you may be asked to provide additional forms or verification documents. Check your Class-Web for updates.
Click Here to Apply for the CA Dream Act Application
Why Is the Priority Deadline Important?
While the April 2 deadline is the primary priority deadline for the California Dream Act Application (CADAA), there is also a September 2 deadline specifically for students attending California community colleges. Meeting these deadlines is critical for undocumented students because:
- Access to Cal Grant Awards: Cal Grant funds are limited and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. Submitting your CADAA before the April 2 or September 2 deadlines ensures you are considered for Cal Grant awards.
- Maximizing Financial Aid: Applying early allows you to access the widest range of financial aid programs, including grants, fee waivers, and scholarships.
- Priority Consideration: Students who apply by the deadlines are prioritized for aid, while late applicants may miss out on some funding opportunities.
Which Deadline Should You Follow?
- April 2 Deadline: Applies to all students, especially those planning to transfer to a four-year university or attending private institutions.
- September 2 Deadline: Offers a second opportunity for community college students who missed the April 2 deadline.
What Happens If I Miss Both Deadlines?
Even if you miss the priority deadlines, you can still submit the CADAA. While some aid, like Cal Grants, may no longer be available, you may still qualify for other financial aid programs such as the California College Promise Grant (CCPG) or institutional scholarships.
Financial Aid Options for Undocumented Students
Undocumented students at Chabot College may be eligible for the following financial aid programs and additional resources:
- Description: Waives the $46-per-unit enrollment fee for eligible students.
- Eligibility: Requires submission of the CADAA.
- Cal Grant A: Assists with tuition at four-year universities (can be reserved while at a community college).
- Cal Grant B: Provides funding for living expenses and tuition.
- Cal Grant C: Supports students in technical or vocational programs.
- Eligibility: Based on CADAA submission, income, and GPA requirements.
Offers additional funding for full-time students receiving Cal Grants to help them complete their program on time.
More Information: Student Success Completion Grant- Description: Provides up to $4,500 annually for Cal Grant B recipients who complete community or volunteer service.
- Requirements: Requires 150 hours of service per semester with a qualifying organization.
Provides up to $5,000 annually for current or former foster youth to help pay for college expenses.
- Eligibility:
- Be a current or former foster youth in foster care for at least one day between ages 16 and 18.
- Be under the age of 26 as of July 1 of the award year.
- Submit the CADAA and the Chafee Grant Application.
Numerous scholarships are available specifically for undocumented students, regardless of AB 540 or CADAA eligibility.
- Scholarships (not a comprehensive list):
Provides financial and academic support for low-income and educationally disadvantaged students.
Benefits:
- Book vouchers and supply assistance.
- Priority registration.
- Academic counseling and personal development workshops.
Eligibility: Must meet EOPS income guidelines and be enrolled in at least 12 units (with some exceptions).
More Information: Visit the EOPS Program at Chabot College.Offers financial and academic support for students who receive cash assistance through the CalWORKs program.
Benefits:
- County provides childcare services, transportation, books & supplies.
- Academic & Personal Counseling
- Computer & calculator loan program
Eligibility: Must be a CalWORKs participant.
More Information: Visit the CalWORKs Program at Chabot College.
Additional Resources