Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re not considered a California resident for college, you may have to pay higher tuition. But you may qualify for in-state (cheaper) tuition through AB 540, AB 2000, or SB 68.

If you are taking ESL classes or are an undocumented student, and you are taking 6 or fewer units at a San Mateo County college, you might also get financial help to cover your fees.

AB 540 (California Non-Resident Tuition Exemption Request (PDF)) is a California law that helps some students pay in-state tuition at public colleges and universities.You may be eligible if you are a nonresident student (including undocumented students) and meet all 3 requirements below:

You must have done one of the following:

  • Went to a California high school, adult school, or community college for 3 full years

OR

  • Took 3 years of high school classes in California and went to a California K-12 school for 3 years (elementary, middle, or high school)

You must have done one of the following:

  • Graduated from a California high school (or got a GED)
  • Got an Associate Degree from a California community college
  • Met transfer requirements to go to a CSU or UC

SB 68 is a new rule that adds more ways to qualify for AB 540.

It lets students count adult school, non-credit classes, and community college classes toward the time needed to get in-state tuition.

You should fill out the California Non-Resident Tuition Exemption Request (PDF) form if you are a non-resident student and meet AB 540, AB 2000, or SB 68 requirements. If you don’t, you may be charged higher tuition fees and unable to get California Dream Act financial aid.

This includes:

  • Undocumented students
  • DACA recipients
  • T or U visa holders
  • TPS holders
  • U.S. Citizens or Permanent Residents who are classified as non-residents

What do I need to turn in with the form?

You may need to submit:

  • Transcripts from a California high school, community college, adult school, or combination
  • Proof of graduation (diploma, GED, associate degree, or transfer eligibility)

Where do I turn it in?

Go to Cañada College Admissions & Records Office (Building 9, First Floor).

No, DACA is not a law.

DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) is a policy created by the Department of Homeland Security that allows certain individuals who meet specific guidelines to request deferred action from USCIS. This means that eligible individuals are temporarily protected from deportation for a set period, unless the deferred action is terminated. Those granted deferred action may also qualify for work authorization during that time.

Undocumented students who are working to meet AB 540 eligibility and are taking classes in the San Mateo Community College District are able to apply for the 6 or Fewer units Non-Resident Tuition Fee Waiver. This waiver allows students enrolled in 6 or fewer units to reduce the cost of their classes.

The form can be found in the Admissions and Records page and additional information can be found in the following FAQs: