Non Resident Tuition Exemption (AB 540/ SB 68)

What is AB 540?

AB 540, also known as the California Nonresident Tuition Exemption, is a state law that allows eligible non-California residents to pay in-state tuition at public colleges and universities in California.

AB 540 is an option for eligible U.S. Citizens, Permanent Residents and undocumented students.

To qualify, eligible students must have attended at least three years, graduated, or earned an equivalent degree from a California school.

For the full list of eligibility criteria, visit the CSU Residency Requirement for Tuition Purposes page.

Gateway to State Financial Aid 

Undocumented students that qualify for AB 540 may be eligible to receive state and university financial aid through the California Dream Act Application (CADAA).

Students under the following statuses may apply for AB 540 consideration:

    • Undocumented (out-of-status)
    • DACA recipients
    • U visa
    • Temporary Protected Status (TPS)
    • Asylum Seekers
    • Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS)

For a complete list of statuses and their eligibility for AB 540 and CADAA, visit the CSU Nonresident Tuition Exemption page.

How to Apply for AB 540:

If you believe you qualify for tuition exemption under AB 540, visit the Office of Admissions' AB 540 page for the form and submission instructions. 

You may need to provide transcripts to prove attendance from your California schools.

Note: Beginning Fall 2024, the CA Nonresident Tuition Exemption form (AB 540) will be included in the CA Dream Act Application. Newly admitted students who have completed the CADAA will not need to submit a separate form.

Additional Resources