Bill > SB323

This bill amends existing law to enhance the California Dream Act application process, which helps students who may not qualify for federal financial aid (such as undocumented students) access state financial aid. The bill requires the Student Aid Commission to modify the California Dream Act application by the 2026-27 financial aid cycle to ensure it can be used by any student eligible for state financial aid programs, regardless of their federal financial aid eligibility. The commission must also consult with California's public and private colleges to promote the application effectively and help students maximize their financial aid opportunities. Additionally, the bill mandates that the commission provide clear information about application options, including prominently displaying eligibility criteria, types of financial aid available, and key differences between applications on their website. The bill also requires that applicants explicitly acknowledge that using the California Dream Act application means they will not be considered for federal student financial aid programs. This legislation aims to provide more transparent and accessible financial aid information for students who might face barriers to traditional federal financial aid.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260SB323