Skip to main content
Undocumented Student Services USS
  1. HOME
  2. Paying for College
  3. Step 3: Seek Other Resources

Step 3: Seek Other Resources

UC Application Fee Waiver

The UC system may waive application fees for up to four campuses for students who are AB 540–eligible and meet income guidelines.

You may qualify based on:

  • Citizenship status (select “No selection” if applicable)
  • California high school attendance (3+ years)
  • Family income and household size

Fee waivers apply to up to four campuses. Additional applications cost $70 each.

Financial Support on Campus (Undergraduate Only)

Outside Scholarships and Fellowships

Explore external funding opportunities through:

Some opportunities may require DACA status—always review eligibility requirements before applying.

CA Dream Act Service Incentive Program (Undergraduate Only)

Learn more about the program

Find a Job on Campus

Private Loans

Students may consider obtaining loans from private financial institutions to cover their graduate school expenses. In some cases, undocumented students will need to obtain a co-signed to secure a loan.

Graduate Students

Application Fee Waiver (UC San Diego)

  1. Complete the online application. The fee waiver option is available in the "Fee Waiver Request" section.
  2. Submit your request. Indicate eligibility, upload documents, and submit your application for review.
  3. Check your email. You will receive a notification (approved, denied, or additional information needed).

Note: Submit your fee waiver request at least one week before the application deadline. Your full application must be submitted for review.

Additional Student Support (Undergraduate)

Aid Options for Graduate and Professional Students

1. Dream Loans

Up to $4,000 per year (maximum $20,000). Requires AB540 status and a California Dream Act Application.

2. Program Funding

Many programs offer fellowships, scholarships, grants, and employment. Contact your program coordinator and ask about eligibility requirements (citizenship, AB540, or work authorization).

3. Employment and Research Opportunities

Students with DACA or work authorization may work as:

  • Graduate Student Researcher (GSR)
  • Research Assistant (RA)
  • Teaching Assistant (TA)
  • Graduate Student Instructor (GSI)

Note: Without work authorization, paid positions are not available. Contact Undocumented Student Services about alternative options such as inclusive fellowships.

4. Undocumented Student Services Funding

Contact USS for funding opportunities and resources. Some options may require AB540 and a Dream Act application.

5. Private Scholarships and Fellowships

6. Private Loans

Private loans may be an option to cover costs. Some students may need a co-signer.

Out-of-state Students

In accordance with applicable Federal and State law and University policy, the University of California does not discriminate, or grant preferences, on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, and/or other protected categories.

More information about Proposition 209 can be found here.

More information about the University of California Anti-Discrimination Policy can be found here.