The California Nonresident Tuition Exemption (AB 540) allows eligible students to pay resident enrollment fees instead of nonresident tuition at California public colleges and universities.
Students approved for an AB 540 exemption are not classified as California residents. Instead, they are exempt from paying nonresident tuition if they meet the eligibility requirements established by California law.
What You Need to Know
- Meet the California attendance requirement.
- Meet the graduation, degree, or transfer requirement.
- Be enrolled or planning to enroll at a California public college or university.
- Submit the required AB 540 Tuition Exemption Request & Affidavit, if applicable.
Eligibility Requirements
California Attendance Requirement
You must meet one of the following:
- Attend a combination of California high school, California adult school, and/or California Community College for the equivalent of three or more years.
- Complete the equivalent of three years of California high school coursework and attend a combination of California elementary, middle, and/or high schools in California for a total of three or more years.
Graduation, Degree, or Transfer Requirement
You must also meet one of the following:
- Graduate from a California high school.
- Earn a GED or California High School Proficiency Certificate.
- Earn an associate degree from a California Community College.
- Complete the minimum transfer requirements from a California Community College to a CSU or UC.
Enrollment Requirement
You must be enrolled or planning to enroll at an accredited California public college or university.
Apply for an AB 540 Exemption
Students requesting a California Nonresident Tuition Exemption (AB 540) must submit the required AB 540 Tuition Exemption Request & Affidavit to Admissions & Records.
If you complete the California Dream Act Application (CADAA), the affidavit is generally included as part of the application. Admissions & Records may request additional documentation to verify your eligibility.
Complete and submit the form as early as possible to avoid delays in your residency determination.
Financial Aid
Students approved for an AB 540 exemption are not automatically eligible for federal financial aid. However, many students qualify for California financial aid by completing the California Dream Act Application (CADAA).
Eligible students may be considered for the California College Promise Grant, Cal Grant, Chafee Grant, Middle Class Scholarship (if eligible), and other state or institutional financial aid programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does AB 540 make me a California resident?
No. AB 540 provides an exemption from paying nonresident tuition but does not change your residency classification.
Do I need to submit an AB 540 Affidavit?
Yes. Students requesting the exemption must complete the required affidavit. If you complete the California Dream Act Application (CADAA), the affidavit is generally included as part of the application, although Admissions & Records may request additional documentation.
Who is not eligible for AB 540?
Most students holding a nonimmigrant visa are not eligible for the exemption. However, students with T or U visa status may qualify if they meet the eligibility requirements.
Can I receive financial aid if I qualify for AB 540?
Yes. Many students who qualify for AB 540 may also qualify for California financial aid by completing the California Dream Act Application (CADAA).
Need Additional Assistance?
If you have questions about AB 540 eligibility or the application process, Admissions & Records is here to help.
