Embedded Files
El Camino High School is committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment for all students with no regard to their immigration status. If your immigration status is undocumented, please know that support is available.
Immigrants Rising is a website that has a wonderful compilation of resources for students whose immigration status is undocumented to help navigate the process of applying to colleges and for financial aid. There are many more on the website but here are a few that seem especially helpful:
The San Diego Rapid Response Network (SDRRN) is a coalition of human rights and service organizations, attorneys, and community leaders dedicated to aiding immigrants and their families in the San Diego border region.
Immigration Emergency Hotline: If you or someone you know is experiencing an immigration emergency (raid, arrest, checkpoint, and/or harassment) call the San Diego Rapid Response Network 24-hour hotline at (619) 536-0823. Please note: this hotline is only for emergencies.
Financial Aid: The CA Dream Act
Financial Aid: The CA Dream Act
Many people think because they are undocumented that they can't get financial aid for college and this is NOT TRUE! Although you won't be eligible for federal financial aid, you can still qualify for state financial aid and aid from the institution you will be attending. Instead of filing FAFSA, students who are undocumented can apply for the California Dream Act (CADAA).
Who's eligible to apply for the CADAA?
You are eligible to complete the CADAA if you:
Are undocumented
Have a valid or expired DACA
Are a U Visa holder
Have Temporary Protected Status (TPS)
Meet the following requirements for California nonresident tuition exemption (commonly known as AB 540)
What are the nonresident exemption requirements under AB 540?
Attendance for 3 or more years at a California high school, adult school, or community college;
OR
3 years of California high school credits and 3 years total attendance in any combination of elementary school, secondary/middle school, or high school in California
AND
Graduation from a California high school or the equivalent (GED, HiSET, TASC, CHSPE); or
Attainment of an associate's degree from a California Community College; or
Fulfillment of the minimum transfer requirements from a California Community College to a CSU or UC campus
To obtain your AB 540 eligibility, you will be required to fill out an affidavit and provide supporting documentation to the Campus Residency Deputy, Admissions Office, or Registrar of the college or university you will be attending. You should seek to complete this process in the spring or summer before you begin attending (or in fall for those who will be starting school in the spring). Read more about submitting the AB 540 affidavit.
College Support for DREAMers
College Support for DREAMers
Most college campuses have Undocumented Resource Centers dedicated to helping students navigate the application process, find financial aid, and identify resources. Many also have student organizations so students who are undocumented can connect with peers and allies. Here are some of our local colleges' programs for students who are undocumented:
MiraCosta College UPRISE: Undocumented People Rise in Solidarity and Empowerment
In collaboration with Cal State San Marcos, UPRISE offers free services to students and loved ones including legal consultations, emergency safety planning, peer networking events, mental health counseling, academic and career counseling, and entrepreneurship training.
University of California (UC) Undocumented Student Resources
UC campuses offer a range of support services - from academic and personal counseling, to financial aid and legal advising - that can help you balance being a full-time student while handling other day-to-day challenges you may face. In fact, every campus has designated staff or faculty members who can work with you to find the right support on campus and answer your questions.
UC San Diego Undocumented Student Services
Undocumented students may meet with our staff to discuss any topics related to their status. Many students rely on this service for graduate school preparation, travel advice, family concerns, personal guidance, legal rights, and referrals.
California State University (CSU) Resources for Undocumented Students
As a leader in higher education, the California State University is deeply committed to ensuring academic opportunities are available to all the state's students, regardless of citizenship status. If you are an undocumented student, there are many resources available to you -- from grants, loans and scholarships to legal and campus support services.
Cal State San Marcos DREAMER Resource Office
Students will be able to get information about both on and off campus resources addressing financial challenges and food insecurity, provide scholarships, internships, and professional development opportunities. It will also connect students to legal services as well as places providing mental and emotional support.
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