Financial Aid for Undocumented Students

The financial aid eligibility is determined by residency and documentation status. At this time, an undocumented student, who qualifies for the nonresident supplemental tuition exemption under California law AB 540, is eligible for locally funded UC aid such as fellowships, scholarships, and other gift and loan programs. DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) students with work authorization qualify for student employment opportunities.

Temporarily, undocumented students who do not qualify for AB 540 can receive non-state-funded university/campus scholarships through June 30, 2027, unless the end date is extended or repealed.

There are broadly three student loan categories: federal, state, and private. 

Students who are not US citizens or eligible non-citizens are not eligible for any federal aid. However, undocumented students may be eligible to receive a California DREAM loan if they qualify for the AB 540 nonresident tuition exemption and demonstrate financial need based on their California Dream Act Application. 

Private student loans may be the next best option if you are not eligible for federal and state student loans. Most private lenders will require the applicant to be a U.S. citizen/eligible non-citizen to be considered; however, some lenders now offer loans to students with DACA so long as they have an eligible U.S. based cosigner. Inquire with lenders directly about your eligibility. Students are encouraged to carefully explore all private loan options available to them by searching online. Private lenders will have varying qualifications, loan terms, and loan maximums.

The Berkeley Law Financial Aid Office does not receive, and will not accept, inducements from lenders in exchange for inclusion on the International Loans information page, nor does the Berkeley School of Law share in the profits from student loans.

Some undocumented J.D. students working in certain types of public interest employment after graduation can use Berkeley Law’s Loan Repayment Assistance Program even with private student loans. Please refer to the LRAP Handbook and make an LRAP appointment to discuss further.

At Berkeley Law, we are committed to expanding financial support for our students, including identifying scholarship opportunities for undocumented students. Our Financial Aid Office is here to help you navigate available funding options, and we encourage you to visit us for personalized guidance.

Additionally, we provide a list of scholarship databases on our website, featuring opportunities that do not require U.S. citizenship. You may find some scholarships that are designed specifically for undocumented and DACA-eligible students.

Immigrants Rising Pre-Law Fund

The Immigrants Rising Pre-Law Fund offers up to $2,500 in financial support to low-income immigrants planning to attend law school. This grant can be used for LSAT preparation (courses, tutoring, self-study materials) and law school application fees. Recipients also gain access to Immigrants Rising’s network of legal professionals.

For a comprehensive list of graduate scholarships that do not require proof of citizenship or permanent residency, please visit the Immigrant Rising Scholarships Page.