Paying for College
Financial support can help make college more affordable. Las Positas College offers guidance for undocumented students, students from mixed-status families, and other students exploring California tuition exemptions and financial aid.
Las Positas College School Code:
030357
Use this code when completing your
California Dream Act Application (CADAA).
Start with the two steps below, then explore additional funding opportunities and resources for students who do not currently qualify for AB 540.
Step 1: Request an AB 540 Tuition Exemption
AB 540 allows eligible students to be exempt from nonresident tuition at California public colleges and universities. It does not change immigration status or make someone a California resident.
Review eligibility requirements and submit the exemption request through Admissions & Records.
Step 2: Apply for Financial Aid
The California Dream Act Application (CADAA) helps eligible students apply for California grants, fee waivers, and certain scholarships.
Students who are eligible for federal aid may use the FAFSA instead. If you are unsure which application to complete, contact Financial Aid.
Important Financial Aid Information
Complete a new FAFSA or CADAA for each academic year. Priority deadlines vary by program and institution. Review the current deadlines and ask the Financial Aid Office about Cal Grant GPA verification.
Understanding AB 540
AB 540 is a California nonresident tuition exemption. Eligible students may pay enrollment tuition at the resident rate without being classified as California residents. Eligibility depends on specified California education, completion, and other requirements.
Qualifying pathways generally involve attendance or coursework at California high schools, adult schools, and/or community colleges, together with an educational milestone such as a high school diploma or equivalent, an associate degree, or fulfillment of minimum UC or CSU transfer requirements.
School attendance may be combined across eligible California institutions. Some noncredit coursework may also count. Eligibility depends on the student's individual circumstances and the applicable rules.
Review AB 540 Eligibility and Exemption InformationExplore the California In-State Tuition Tool
Complete the AB 540 Nonresident Tuition Exemption Request and submit it to LPC Admissions & Records. You may also be asked to provide attendance records, transcripts, or proof of an eligible educational milestone.
Admissions & Records will review the request and determine whether you meet the requirements. Submit your request as early as possible so that tuition charges can be reviewed before payment deadlines.
Not sure whether you qualify? Contact Admissions & Records or the UndocuLiaison at LPC-undoc@laspositascollege.edu for guidance on your next steps.
Additional Financial Aid Opportunities
The cost of college includes books, transportation, supplies, and living expenses in addition to tuition. Explore available financial aid and scholarships to help with these costs.
California Grants and Fee Waivers
Eligible students may qualify for Cal Grants, the California College Promise Grant fee waiver, and other state-funded assistance. Awards depend on individual eligibility and program requirements.
Scholarships
Scholarships may help cover educational and living expenses. Some scholarships accept applications from undocumented students without requiring a Social Security number.
Review each award's eligibility rules and deadlines.
California Dream Act Service Incentive Grant (DSIG)
The California Dream Act Service Incentive Grant (DSIG) provides eligible California Dream Act students with financial assistance in exchange for completing community or volunteer service.
Eligible students may receive up to $4,500 per academic year ($2,250 per semester) by completing 150 hours of qualifying fellowship service each semester.
To qualify, students must submit a California Dream Act Application, have an active qualifying Cal Grant A or B award, and meet financial need and other program requirements. A separate DSIG application is required each academic year.
Students are encouraged to contact the Financial Aid Office or the UndocuLiaison (LPC-undoc@laspositascollege.edu) to confirm their eligibility before beginning their fellowship service.
For help reviewing financial aid options, contact the LPC Financial Aid Office at lpcfinaid@laspositascollege.edu.
Not Eligible for AB 540 Yet?
You may still have educational options if you do not currently qualify for the AB 540 exemption. California noncredit courses, adult education, and certain dual enrollment opportunities may help you continue your education or work toward future eligibility.
Noncredit Courses
LPC offers tuition-free noncredit courses in subjects such as English as a Second Language, basic skills, and career preparation. Qualifying noncredit attendance may count toward AB 540.
Some classes may require books or materials.
Adult School Programs
California adult schools offer opportunities to learn English, complete a high school diploma or equivalency, and develop academic or career skills. Eligible attendance may help students work toward AB 540 requirements.
Working Toward a High School Diploma or GED?
Under California Senate Bill 554, eligible students pursuing a high school diploma or equivalency through an adult education or noncredit program may qualify to enroll in community college credit courses as special part-time students.
Contact Admissions & Records to ask about current requirements, enrollment limits, and how this pathway may apply to your situation.
Need Help Paying for College?
If you have questions about AB 540, the California Dream Act, scholarships, or other educational pathways, LPC staff can help you identify the appropriate office and available resources.
Undocumented Student Support Center
LPC-undoc@laspositascollege.edu
Financial Aid Office lpcfinaid@laspositascollege.edu
