At Berkeley Law, we are proud to welcome and support undocumented students. Although undocumented students are not eligible for federal student aid, they may be eligible for other forms of aid under certain criteria. Financial aid for the J.D. program at Berkeley Law is mainly comprised of federal loans and institutional aid. Currently the state aid for undocumented students through Berkeley remains restricted to undergraduates only who meet certain criteria.
We are dedicated to providing you the resources and options available to pursue your education in law. Please see more information below:
**New** For a limited period of time, the University of California can extend non-State financial aid to undocumented students who do not qualify for AB540 Nonresident Supplemental Tuition (NRST) exemptions, an opportunity previously that was unavailable before July 1, 2019.
Additional Resources:
Undocumented Student Program University of California *Please note, most of this information may pertain to undergraduates unless otherwise stated. Please let us know if you have any questions.
Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)
California Dream Act Application (CDAA) information – The California Dream Act Application allows students interested in attending eligible California Colleges, Universities and Career Education Programs to apply for state financial aid. This application is unrelated to the federal Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program.
Please note, Berkeley Law financial aid is not determined by the CDAA. UC Berkeley campus may use this application to determine eligibility for institutional loans or aid, depending on academic year. Eligible students are encouraged to apply.
California Dream Loan – Authorized by the SB1210, The California Dream Loan is a low-interest subsidized loan for AB540 students with financial need who meet all other financial aid eligibility requirements.
Income Generation Options for Undocumented Students Toolkit – An inclusive toolkit that provides income generation options to UC students and alumni, with or without work
authorization.
Immigration Policy Updates & FAQ
Immigrants Rising Pre-Law Fund-Immigrants Rising’s Pre-Law Fund will provide financial support of up to $2,500 to low-income immigrants who are planning to attend law school. Grants will cover LSAT preparation (courses, tutoring, self-study materials, etc) and law school application fees. In addition to financial support, recipients will be connected to Immigrants Rising’s network of legal professionals.
List of graduate student scholarships not requiring proof citizenship or permanent residency status.
List of graduate fellowships not requiring proof of citizenship or permanent residency status.