I do not qualify for AB 540
Check again, then find ways to pay less.
3 steps
Step 1 of 3: Check again
More students qualify than before.
- Do I meet AB 540?You likely meet AB 540 if you have about three years of California school, finished a California diploma or its equal, and will sign one form. You do not need DACA. Check each part below.Quick answer
- Track your AB 540 school yearsWrite down every California school you went to, with dates and hours or units, and get a transcript from each. You need three full time years, or the same amount part time, in any mix of high school, adult school and community college. Yes, community college years count.Quick answer
- Do I meet AB 540? checklistPrint it and fill it in by handChecklist
Step 2 of 3: Ways to pay less now
Some colleges and programs cost less.
- Lower tuition before AB 540Missing AB 540 does not have to mean paying ten times more for every class. Some community college districts waive nonresident tuition if you take six units or fewer, noncredit classes are often free, and high school and adult school students can be exempt. Each of these can also help you build the years you need for AB 540. Here is what is open in the Bay Area today and exactly what to ask.Guide
- Ways to lower your tuitionOften, yes. First check AB 540, because more students qualify than before. If you do not qualify yet, a California community college may still let you study for free or at a lower price while you build your years.Quick answer
- Lower tuition before AB 540 checklistPrint it and fill it in by handChecklist
Step 3 of 3: Get help from a person
You do not have to do this alone. Ask about cost, languages and current openings before you share documents.
This page puts DNLH guides in a useful order. It is general information, not legal advice. Each guide shows its sources and the date its facts were checked.
Not quite your situation?
All situations- I am undocumented and want to go to collegeApply, pay the in-state price and get state aid.6 steps
- I need money for collegeThe right aid form, the deadline and scholarships.5 steps
- I am enrolling my child in schoolEnrollment, meals, language help and special education.5 steps
- I am worried about ICE at my child's schoolWhat schools must do and what you can do this week.4 steps
- I finished college and want to work or keep studyingWork, licenses and graduate school.3 steps