Over 2 million undocumented immigrants call California home and have spent their entire lives navigating the California education system. Yet, for many undocumented students pursuing higher education, it can be challenging to receive financial aid and establish residency to be eligible for in-state tuition rates. The California Dream Act (Assembly Bills 130, 131, 540), signed into law in 2011 by former Governor Jerry Brown, enables undocumented students to receive in-state tuition, state-based financial aid, and gives universities the discretion to award institutional scholarships to undocumented students. These laws are critical in supporting marginalized undocumented students in pursuing their educational dreams and creating meaningful pathways for socioeconomic advancement and job opportunities.
