Hi John,
I’m Madeleine, the Interim Director of Higher Education at Immigrants Rising.
As we begin 2025 and await college admission decisions, considering how to afford college can be daunting. Especially with the current political climate, it is even more important to know how you can pursue your educational aspirations safely and more affordably. Continue reading below to see what resources are available and what protections are in place for you, regardless of your status!
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KEY DEADLINES
To be considered for state financial aid programs (e.g., Cal Grant, New York State TAP), submit your application by:
CA Dream Act Application (CADAA): March 3, 2025 1 (or September 3, 2025, for community college students)
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): March 2, 2025
These applications may be open past the priority deadlines listed, but applying on time ensures you can receive all the aid you are eligible for!
1 The California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) is considering a later deadline. For updates, visit csac.ca.gov.
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State-Based Financial Aid (for outside of CA)
If you are located outside of California, visit Presidents’ Alliance’s Higher Ed Immigration Portal to see what options you have in your state!
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Student Data Protection
Federal and state laws are in place for all higher education institutions to protect students’ personal information. FERPA is a federal law that requires schools to not disclose students’ information without the student’s or parents/guardians’ consent.
In California, SB 54 (California Values Act) and AB 21 prohibit certain disclosures of immigration status and require protocols that prioritize protecting students, faculty, and staff when interacting with federal immigration authorities.
If you are an educator, check out our Immigration Preparedness in CA Higher Education Institutions resource to learn how your campus can create a safe and secure environment for everyone regardless of immigration status, which includes improving data security measures! With these policies and practices in mind, I hope you feel more at ease about pursuing higher education.
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CA Dream Act Application
The CA Dream Act Application is now open for undocumented students in California. Check if you are AB 540-eligible, which could qualify you for state grants, such as the Cal Grant, and institutional aid. Use our California College Access Quick Guide, CA Dream Act Application Checklist, Cal Grant Checklist, and the CA In-State Tuition Tool (ISTT) for guidance and more information!
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FAFSA for Mixed-Status Families
To submit FAFSA, you must be a U.S. citizen or an eligible noncitizen (e.g., permanent resident, refugee, asylee), which includes students with adjusted status or are from mixed-status families. Use Presidents’ Alliance’s FAFSA Hub for Mixed-Status Families as a guide to completing the application.
For students from mixed-status families in California, you may choose to submit CADAA now and FAFSA later, although FAFSA would still be required to receive the Pell Grant and other federal aid.
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Regardless of where you are in the U.S., utilize our List of Scholarships and Fellowships to see additional opportunities you can apply for without needing proof of citizenship. Even during these times of fear and uncertainty, know that higher education continues to be an option for you, which can open up new doors for opportunities. There are resources, support, and a community of educators and advocates who can help you through this journey.
In community,
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Madeleine Villanueva
Interim Director of Higher Education
Immigrants Rising
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