Empowering Every Student: Undocumented Resources

Every student deserves the opportunity to pursue their educational dreams, regardless of immigration status. With the right support, financial aid, and community resources, students can access the opportunities they need to succeed. 

Whether you’re a student preparing for college, a parent looking for guidance, or an advocate for undocumented students, the resources below will help you navigate financial aid, mental health support, legal protections, emergency relief, and training opportunities. 

Together, we can ensure that every student has the tools and support they need to reach their dreams. 

Financial Aid Resources:
Making College Accessible

One of the most important steps undocumented or AB540 students can take is filling for financial aid by completing the California Dream Act Application (CADAA). This application unlocks access to Cal Grants, institutional grants, and scholarships, helping make college more affordable and accessible.  

Cash for College (in-person workshops) 
Educational Resources from U.S. Department of Education 
College Campaign Interactive Map – Undocumented Student Resources 
Scholarships for Undocumented Students 
Applying for Financial Aid 2025-2026 – Mixed Status Families.pdf 
CSAC Guide to Getting Started for Mixed Status Families 
CSAC Resources for Undocumented Students 
CSAC AB540 Requirements 
NCAN Guide for Mixed Status Families  
Student Forms | California Student Aid Commission 
CA Dream Act Application Map 
CA Dream Act Application Checklist 
CADAA for Mixed-Status Families | California Student Aid Commission 
American Indian Born in Canada (formerly Jay Treaty student) – Student Eligibility | Knowledge Center 
Resources for DACA Recipients and Dreamers 
UCR’s Undocumented Student Resources 
Mt. San Jacinto College – Undocumented Student Resources 
San Bernardino Valley College – Immigration and Undocumented Student Resources 

Mental Health Support:
Prioritizing Well-Being

Balancing school, work, and family responsibilities can be overwhelming, and mental health support is essential for student success. Access to counseling, peer support, and wellness tools can help students navigate challenges and build resilience. 

Immigrants Rising: Mental Health Resources for Undocumented Students 
Immigrants Rising: Mental Health Support Groups 
Immigrants Rising: Mental Health Connector 
211 Mental Health Resources  

Legal Rights & Protections:
Staying Informed  

Understanding legal rights is key to ensuring that undocumented students and their families feel safe and supported in pursuing education. Access to trusted legal resources helps students stay informed, advocate for themselves, and plan for their future. 

Todec Legal Center: Legal Services and Advocacy 
Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights 
Know Your Rights: Printable Red Cards (Immigration Legal Resource Center)
Know Your Rights Under the U.S. Constitution – No Matter Who Is President
What Immigrant Families Should Do Now
Warrants & Subpoenas: What to Look Out for and How to Respond
Messaging Guide: Immigration Enforcement in Sensitive Locations/Protected Areas
Higher Education Technical Assistance Project 
Immigration Preparedness Toolkit
Immigration Advocates Network 
We Have Rights 
CARECEN – LA College Immigration Legal Services
10 Things Noncitizen Protestors Need to Know

Emergency Relief:
Being Prepared 

Emergency relief resources provide immediate assistance to undocumented students and mixed-status families facing crises, helping them stay focused on their academic goals. 

211 Disaster Recovery
Rapid Response Toolkit
Immigrant Relief Center – Immigration Preparedness Toolkit 
Step-by-step Family Preparedness Plan 

Resources for Partners:
Supporting Students & Families 

Partners play a critical role in supporting undocumented students and their families. Providing accurate information, connecting students to resources, and fostering an inclusive environment can make all the difference. 

Immigrants Rising: Protecting Student Data
Higher Ed Immigration – Data Information
CSAC Training- Live Webinars (for high school staff) 
FAFSA Issue Alerts | Knowledge Center 
UCR Undocu-Ally-Training 
FERPA – Protecting Student Data 
We Have Rights – Partner Resources 
UCR’s PODER (Providing Opportunities, Dreams and Education in Riverside) 
SBCSS – Immigration Resources 
RCCD Immigration Related Resources 
A Guide for Employers: What to Do if Immigration Comes to Your Workplace

Do you have a resource you’d like to share with us? Please submit it here.