AB 540 Affidavit Guide 2025 – TRW Law Firm
Expert Legal Assistance for Tuition Relief and Residency Documentation in California
🔍 What is the AB 540 Affidavit?
The AB 540 Affidavit is a California state declaration that allows certain undocumented, DACA, and non-resident students to qualify for in-state tuition rates at California public colleges and universities. Passed under Assembly Bill 540, the law enables students who meet specific educational and residency criteria to avoid paying significantly higher non-resident tuition.
At TRW Law Firm, we assist Bangladeshi and international families with filing the affidavit, ensuring correct documentation, and guiding students through financial aid and legal planning.
✅ Who Should File the AB 540 Affidavit?
You may be eligible to file the affidavit if you:
- Are undocumented, a DACA recipient, or a non-U.S. citizen
- Attended a California high school for at least 3 years
- Graduated from a California high school (or obtained GED or equivalent)
- Currently reside in California or have established intent to do so
- Intend to apply for U.S. lawful status when eligible
📖 How to Submit the AB 540 Affidavit
- Download the Form: Each California institution has its own version of the AB 540 form. Find it on the admissions or financial aid webpage of the specific college or university.
- Complete the Affidavit: Fill out all fields honestly. Affirm your intent to pursue legal immigration status when eligible.
- Submit the Affidavit:
- Along with your admissions application, or
- During the financial aid application process
- Attach Supporting Documents (see below)
🗋 Supporting Documents Checklist
To ensure your application is processed smoothly, you may need:
- California high school diploma or GED
- Transcripts from any California educational institution attended
- Proof of California residency for 3+ years (e.g., lease, utility bills, school records, tax returns)
- ITIN or SSN (if applicable, but not mandatory)
- DACA or immigration documents (optional, if applicable)
⏳ When to Submit
Submit your affidavit as early as possible, ideally:
- At the time of application to the college/university
- Or immediately after being admitted
- Before any financial aid deadlines (California Dream Act, etc.)
Each school may have its own deadlines, so always confirm with the admissions or financial aid office.
💸 Cost to File
- There is no fee to submit the AB 540 affidavit.
- Standard college admission fees still apply (some schools may offer fee waivers).
📊 What Happens After Submission?
- The admissions or financial aid office will review your affidavit.
- If approved, you’ll be granted in-state tuition status.
- If you qualify, you may also be considered for state-based financial aid (e.g., California Dream Act).
TRW Law Firm can assist with:
- Appeals if your affidavit is denied
- Clarifying documentation requests
- Ensuring eligibility alignment with other petitions or visa statuses
❓ AB 540 Affidavit FAQs – TRW Answers
Can I file the affidavit if I’m a non-resident international student? Yes, if you meet the high school attendance and graduation criteria.
Can I file the affidavit after getting admitted? Yes, but do so as soon as possible to secure in-state tuition and aid.
What if my affidavit is denied? You may appeal the decision or provide more evidence. TRW can assist in this process.
Do I need to be a DACA recipient? No. You only need to declare your intent to pursue lawful status when eligible.
What if I have a pending asylum or family-based petition? You are still eligible to submit the AB 540 affidavit.
🚀 Why Work with TRW Law Firm?
- ✅ In-depth experience assisting undocumented and non-resident students
- ✅ Legal review of supporting documents
- ✅ Strategic planning if you also plan to apply for DACA or family-based petitions
- ✅ Coordination with U.S. education institutions
📕 Start Your California Education Journey with TRW
Let us help you or your family access in-state tuition and unlock academic opportunity.
🔗 Book Now: https://booking.tahmidurrahman.com
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📧 Email: info@tahmidur.com | info@trwbd.com
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TRW Law Firm – Trusted Advisors in U.S. Immigration and Education Law