What is the process for applying for state financial aid using the California Dream Act Application (CADAA)?

The California Dream Act Application (CADAA) is the form that certain non-resident students, including undocumented students, must use to apply for state financial aid. The process requires you to complete the online application by the state deadline and submit a separate tuition exemption form to your college. Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility First, confirm you meet the AB 540 requirements. This generally means you attended a California high school for three or more years, graduated or earned an equivalent, and will file an affidavit with your college stating you will apply for legal residency as soon as you are eligible. Step 2: Gather Required Documents Collect your and your parents' financial information. You will need 2022 income tax returns (if filed), W-2s, records of untaxed income, and current bank statements. Having these documents ready will make the application process much faster. Step 3: Complete the CADAA Online Go to the official website at dream.csac.ca.gov to create an account and fill out the application. The application opens on October 1st each year. You must submit your completed application by the priority deadline of March 2nd to be eligible for a Cal Grant. Step 4: Submit the AB 540 Affidavit to Your College This is a separate but essential step. You must get the California Nonresident Tuition Exemption Request form (often called the AB 540 affidavit) from the admissions or registrar's office of the college you plan to attend. Submit the completed form directly to the college, not with your CADAA. Step 5: Follow Up and Check Your Status After submitting your CADAA, create an account on the WebGrants for Students portal (mygrantinfo.csac.ca.gov) to check your application status. Your college's financial aid office may also request additional documents, so monitor your email and student portal closely. Important details and nuances: The CADAA provides access to state aid (like Cal Grants, Middle Class Scholarships, and Chafee Grants) and financial aid from California public colleges. It does not provide access to federal financial aid. Your information is confidential and protected under state law. Warnings and limitations: The March 2nd deadline is strict; missing it will likely make you ineligible for most state grants for the year. If you are a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen, you should fill out the FAFSA, not the CADAA. This is general information and does not constitute legal advice. For complex situations, you should consult with a qualified California attorney.