How can an immigrant student prove they meet the requirements for in-state tuition at California public colleges under AB 540?

To prove you meet AB 540 requirements for in-state tuition, you must submit an affidavit to your college certifying you meet specific attendance and graduation criteria. The process involves verifying your eligibility, completing a form, and providing supporting school records. Here are the steps to prove your eligibility: Step 1: Verify You Meet the Attendance and Graduation Requirements Before applying, confirm you meet both the time and graduation requirements. You must have attended a combination of California high schools, adult schools, or community colleges for at least three full years. You also must have graduated from a California high school, received a GED/HiSET in California, or met transfer requirements from a California Community College. Step 2: Obtain the AB 540 Affidavit Go to the website for your college's Office of the Registrar or Admissions and Records. Search for the "California Nonresident Tuition Exemption Request" form, also known as the AB 540 affidavit. Download and print the form. Step 3: Gather Your Supporting Documents Collect official transcripts from your California high school to prove attendance and graduation. If you attended an adult school or community college to meet the three-year requirement, you will need those transcripts as well. If you have a GED or HiSET, you will need that certificate. Step 4: Complete and Sign the Affidavit Fill out the affidavit completely. The form requires you to state under penalty of perjury that you meet the eligibility requirements. Crucially, you must also attest that you will apply for legal permanent residency as soon as you are eligible to do so. Step 5: Submit Your Paperwork to the College Submit the signed affidavit and copies of your supporting documents to your college's Office of the Registrar or Admissions. Check the college’s specific deadline, which is typically before the tuition payment due date for the term. Important considerations: AB 540 grants you an exemption from paying nonresident tuition; it does not change your immigration status. Completing the AB 540 affidavit is also the first step to becoming eligible for state financial aid under the California Dream Act. Note: Each campus (UC, CSU, or Community College) may have slightly different procedures, so always check with the specific office handling these requests. Be truthful on the affidavit, as it is a legal document signed under penalty of perjury. This is general information and does not constitute legal advice. For complex situations, consult with a qualified California attorney.