As of 9/5/17, the Trump Administration announced the DACA program will be phased out and terminated; however, as of 1/13/18, USCIS has announced it will again accept DACA renewal applications as a result of a recent court order. For updates and information about this change, click here.

DACA, or Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, is a 2012 Obama administration policy shift. DACA allows qualifying individuals to apply for a temporary (2-year) work permit, temporary Social Security number (valid for work authorization only), and protection from deportation. Students can reapply every two years. DACA does not grant lawful immigration status or provide a path to citizenship, and is only a temporary measure.

DACA recipients who meet AB-540 criteria can apply for California State Financial Aid by submitting the CA Dream Act Application. DACA does not make students eligible to apply for FAFSA.

Students who are DACA recipients may also be eligible to be reclassified as CA residents. To be reclassified, submit the Petition for Reclassification of Residency to the Office of Admissions and Records. This petition will require supporting documentation and should only be submitted if you meet all of the following criteria:

• You currently hold an immigration status (like DACA) that is eligible to establish California residency and you have had (or applied for) that status at least 366 days prior to the start of the term.
• You have been physically present in California with the intent to make California your home for other than a temporary purpose at least 366 days prior to the start of the term.