Dreamers

What is a Dreamer?

A “Dreamer” typically refers to undocumented students who came to the United States at a young age and meet specific eligibility criteria under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. In California, Dreamers may also qualify for state financial aid through the California Dream Act, which helps make higher education more accessible and affordable.

If you meet AB 540 requirements, you may be eligible for state financial aid, including Cal Grants and other state-based financial aid opportunities.

California Dream Act Application (CADAA)

The California Dream Act Application (CADAA) allows undocumented and non-resident students to apply for state-based financial aid at California colleges and universities. Completing the CADAA will help determine your eligibility for grants, scholarships, and fee waivers. For more information, please click here.

How to Apply

• Visit the California Dream Act Application (CADAA) website.
• Follow the instructions to create an account and complete the application.
• Ensure that all required sections are completed accurately.
• Submit your GPA Verification Form as part of the CADAA process.

Your high school or current college will complete and submit the bottom portion. For details, visit www.csac.ca.gov or call 1-888-224-7268.

Deadlines

The CADAA deadline is March 2nd of every year. The deadline for 2025–26 was an exception of April 2, 2025.

Awards

Award amounts depend on the program for which you qualify (Cal Grant A or Cal Grant B) and the specific year of your initial award.

Financial Aid Offer

Dream Act Service Incentive Grant (DSIG)

The DSIG Program offers financial aid to Dreamers who are eligible for a Cal Grant and are willing to perform community service or volunteer work.

• Provides up to $4,500 per academic year for eligible students.
• Available for up to 8 semesters (students must reapply each year).
• Must be a Cal Grant recipient or meet Cal Grant eligibility.
• Must enroll in at least 6 units per term and maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP).
• Must complete all required financial aid verification processes.
  
  Students can apply through CSAC’s DSIG application page.

Private Loan Options for Dreamers

While federal loans are not available to undocumented students, private loan and scholarship opportunities may be available. CBU does not endorse or recommend any lender. The following are examples of private loan providers. Students are encouraged to conduct their own research to find the lender that best meets their needs.

• Sallie Mae Smart Option Student Loan – Sallie Mae provides private loans that Dreamers may apply for with a creditworthy U.S. cosigner.
• MPOWER Financing – MPOWER offers loans specifically designed for international and DACA students without requiring a cosigner.
• Ascent DACA Student Loan – Ascent offers scholarships and student loans for undergraduate and graduate DACA students.

Note: Private loans require a credit check and often a cosigner. Review all terms and conditions before applying.

Scholarship Universe

Scholarship Universe is an online scholarship matching tool provided by California Baptist University. This platform connects students to a variety of external scholarships tailored to their unique profile.

Dreamers and other students are encouraged to use this tool to explore additional funding opportunities.

Visit the Scholarship Universe webpage to get started.

Additional Resources for Dreamers

The following organizations and websites provide support for undocumented students. (CBU is not affiliated with, nor does it endorse, any organization listed below.)

• Immigrants Rising – Provides information on scholarships, career development, and other resources for undocumented students.
• United We Dream – The largest immigrant youth-led network in the U.S., advocating for the rights of undocumented immigrants.
• DREAMer's Roadmap – A mobile app that helps undocumented students find scholarship opportunities.

Contact Us

For any further questions or guidance, please contact the Financial Aid Office. We are here to support you in reaching your educational goals.