Whether you’re applying to UC as a freshman or transfer student, here are some helpful tips for going through the application process as an undocumented student.
We don’t want the application fee to get in the way of you applying to UC. That’s why we’ll waive application fees for up to four campuses for undocumented students who are AB 540-eligible and meet the income guidelines.
You can apply for a fee waiver within the online application and be notified immediately whether you have qualified. You will get the option of applying for a fee waiver based on how you fill out these questions:
Fee waivers can't be applied to more than four campuses, regardless of their source (for instance, you wouldn't be able to use a College Board/SAT fee waiver and a UC fee waiver to apply to more than four UC campuses). If you qualify for a fee waiver and select more than four campuses, you'll need to pay $70 for each additional choice.
Make sure that the number you use on this item in the application is the same as the SSN or ITIN you enter on your Cal Dream Act Application.
As an undocumented student, you have the option to choose “No Selection.” This option is considered a valid response and we recommend this choice for undocumented applicants, including those with DACA status. By choosing “No Selection,” you’ll avoid being asked other questions about permanent residency and visa status that are not applicable to you.
You’ll be asked the following questions to determine if you are a California resident for admissions purposes:
If you’re considered a California resident for admissions purposes, you may be eligible for our application fee waiver and you’ll be considered for admission using the 3.0 minimum GPA (rather than the 3.4 GPA for nonresident applicants).
Keep in mind: Being a California resident for admissions purposes does not necessarily mean you’ll be considered a resident for tuition purposes. Find out if you could be eligible for a nonresident supplemental tuition exemption (also known as AB 540).
It's up to you if you want to use one of the personal insight question responses or the additional comments section to discuss your undocumented status. It isn't required, but it can provide more context for your application by helping reviewers understand your circumstance and resources. Immigration status will not be used outside the application process other than for legitimate educational interests, including the provision of a service or benefit relating to the student, such as health care, counseling, job placement or financial aid.
When you submit your application, you'll be asked questions about your parents’ citizenship status. For example: Is your parent a U.S. citizen? Has your parent been physically present in CA for the last 3 years? You don’t have to answer these questions, but if you do, we encourage you to answer them truthfully — any information you provide will not affect your admission decision. This information is used only to help UC determine residency.
UC offers more than 600 graduate degree programs across 10 campuses. Learn how to prepare for grad school and apply to the program that’s right for you at our graduate admissions site.
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