What is AB 540?
AB 540 non resident tuition exemption is a California law where certain nonresident students are free from paying out-of-state tuition.
If you are an undocumented student and you are granted AB 540 exemption, you will be charged in-state tuition and fees, and not the out-of-state tuition that nonresidents are charged.
Who is eligible for AB 540?
Undocumented students AND students for various reasons are classified as nonresidents may be eligible.
What are the Requirements?
How do I apply?
AB 540 non resident tuition exemption is a California law where certain nonresident students are free from paying out-of-state tuition.
If you are an undocumented student and you are granted AB 540 exemption, you will be charged in-state tuition and fees, and not the out-of-state tuition that nonresidents are charged.
Who is eligible for AB 540?
Undocumented students AND students for various reasons are classified as nonresidents may be eligible.
What are the Requirements?
- Attend a California high school for 3 or more years
- Graduate (or will graduate) from a high school in California or the equivalent
- You also must have signed the California Nonresident Exemption Request: you can get this form at the college/university that you are planning to attend. This form states that you meet all the requirements to be AB 540 status and, if you are undocumented, are in the process of adjusting your immigration status (or will do as soon as you are eligible).
How do I apply?
- After you have been accepted to a college/university you must complete an AB 540 affidavit (California Non-Resident Tuition Exemption form)
- Be prepared to provide official California school transcripts and proof of high school graduation
AB 540 Forms/Links for California State Universities (CSU):
AB 540 Forms/Links for University of California (UC):
AB 540 Forms/Links for Community Colleges