West Valley College is committed to supporting undocumented students throughout their academic journey. We believe a student’s immigration status does not affect admission eligibility regardless of AB540/AB130/AB131/DACA-eligibility. We offer various services and resources to further the success of our current and future undocumented students.
Monday, October 14
9:00AM - 10:00AM
Location: Campus Center
Join the Student Senate for California Community Colleges for a webinar exploring many of the barriers undocumented students encounter—from financial aid limitations and legal vulnerabilities to mental health struggles—and examine how colleges, faculty, and peers can take concrete steps to support and uplift these students.
3:00 PM- 3:30 PM
Location: Kirkorian Pavilion
Join us for an inspiring workshop with Samantha Hernandez, Director of Student Needs and Tania Pichardo Director of EOPS. Together they will explore the incredible possibilities for undocumented students to study away in May 2025! Discover how this unique opportunity can broaden your horizons, enhance your academic journey, and empower you to embrace new cultures and experiences. They will share valuable insights, resources, and personal stories highlighting the transformative impact of studying away. Don’t miss this chance to learn how to take advantage of this amazing opportunity and make your study-away dreams a reality. Whether you're curious about the application process or eager to hear about firsthand experiences, this session is for you!
3:30PM - 4:30PM
Location: Kirkorian Pavilion
Join us for a creative and meaningful activity as we decorate butterflies to celebrate migration and its beauty! Participants will have the chance to personalize their butterflies with colors and designs that resonate with their own stories and dreams. Once decorated, we’ll release the butterflies in a symbolic flight, honoring the journeys of all who migrate. This is a wonderful opportunity to come together, express ourselves, and reflect on the significance of migration in our lives. Don’t miss out on this beautiful celebration!
Tuesday, October 15
9:00AM - 10:00AM
Location: Campus Center
This session is designed to explain the distinctions between obtaining lawful permanent residency (often referred to as obtaining a Green Card) and naturalization, the process leading to U.S. citizenship. Our experts will navigate through the complex relationship and requirements that bridge these two significant statuses, offering insights into the step-by-step process of applying for citizenship.
2:00PM- 2:30PM
Location: Kirkorian Pavilion
Join us for an inspiring student panel featuring undocumented students who will share their powerful stories of overcoming adversity. These brave individuals will discuss their journeys, the challenges faced, and the resilience that has shaped their paths. This is a unique opportunity to hear firsthand experiences, gain insights, and find motivation in the strength of our community. Don’t miss the chance to connect, learn, and be inspired!
3:30PM-4:30PM
Location: Kirkorian Pavilion
Join us for a powerful painting activity where you can express your undocumented journey on canvas. Allies are warmly invited to show their solidarity by painting alongside our undocu community.
Join us for a powerful painting activity where you can express your undocumented journey on canvas. This is a safe space for undocumented individuals to share their stories through art, reflecting their experiences and resilience. Allies are warmly invited to show their solidarity by participating, painting alongside our undocumented community, and creating a vibrant display of support and unity. Together, we’ll celebrate our diverse narratives and foster understanding through creativity. Come ready to paint, connect, and uplift one another!
Wednesday, October 16
9:00AM - 10:00AM
Location: Campus Center
This session is designed to explain the distinctions between obtaining lawful permanent residency (often referred to as obtaining a Green Card) and naturalization, the process leading to U.S. citizenship. Our experts will navigate through the complex relationship and requirements that bridge these two significant statuses, offering insights into the step-by-step process of applying for citizenship.
2:00PM-3:00pm
Location: Kirkorian Pavilion
Join us for a compelling screening of an insightful documentary that follows the lives of eight undocumented families. This event is a unique opportunity for both undocumented and documented students to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges, resilience, and dreams within our communities. Through powerful storytelling, the film highlights the shared humanity that connects us all. Don’t miss this chance to engage, learn, and build solidarity!
2:00PM- 4:00PM
Location: Kirkorian Pavilion
Join us for a heartfelt activity where undocumented students can express their inspiration and pride by writing their stories on paper butterflies. Each butterfly will represent your unique journey and the strength that comes from overcoming challenges. Once decorated, these butterflies will be displayed in the Undocu Resource Office as a vibrant symbol of resilience, community, and shared experiences. Let your voice soar and celebrate the beauty of being unafraid and unapologetically you!
Thursday, October 17
9:00AM - 10:00AM
Location: Campus Center
This session explores the unique challenges faced by undocumented students and professionals in accessing culturally competent mental health care and navigating workplace barriers. Panelists will share insights on improving representation, advocacy, and holistic support for the undocumented community, offering strategies to foster resilience and well-being.
2:00PM-2:30PM
Location: Kirkorian Pavilion
Join us for an informative workshop featuring a financial aid expert who will discuss the financial resources available specifically for undocumented students.This session will cover scholarships, grants, and other funding opportunities that can help you pursue your educational goals. Learn how to navigate the financial landscape, access resources, and maximize your funding potential. Whether you're just starting your college journey or looking for ways to fund your education, this workshop will equip you with the knowledge and tools you need to succeed. Don’t miss this chance to empower your financial future!
Workshop: Gabriela Brown: “Finding Home Within: Mental Health and Healing for Undocumented Students"
2:30PM-3:30PM
Location: Kirkorian Pavilion
Join us for an enlightening session with a mental health professional dedicated to supporting undocumented students. In this engaging talk, we’ll explore the vital importance of mental health and how to prioritize your well-being amidst challenges. Our speaker will share practical strategies for coping with adversity, emphasizing the connection between mental, physical, and emotional health. Discover empowering tools to nurture your mental wellness and create a supportive community where you can thrive. Your well-being matters—let's learn how to take care of ourselves together!
3:30PM-4:30PM
Location: Kirkorian Pavilion
Join us for a rejuvenating self-care day designed specifically for undocumented students! This relaxing event will feature a variety of activities, including DIY sugar scrubs and facemasks, to promote mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Take a break from your daily routine, unwind, and connect with others in a supportive environment. Our self-care activities will not only help you pamper yourself but also encourage mindfulness and self-love. Come recharge, share experiences, and learn simple ways to prioritize your health and happiness. Don’t miss this opportunity to invest in yourself!
Assembly Bill 540 was signed into law in October 2001 and allows eligible undocumented, legal permanent resident and U.S. citizen students to pay in-state tuition at public colleges and universities. AB 540 Affidavits are required and approved through the Admissions and Records Office to update a student’s residency status.
To qualify, a student must meet the following requirements:
- >High school attendance in California for three or more years
- or elementary or secondary school attendance,
- or both in California for a total of 3 or more years and
- attainment of credits earned in California from a California high school equivalent to 3 or more years of full-time high school coursework and a total of three or more years of attendance in California elementary schools, California secondary schools, or a combination of these schools.
- Must register or is currently enrolled at an accredited institution of public higher education in California;
- Must file or will file an affidavit as required by individual institutions, stating that the filer will apply for legal residency as soon as possible;
- Must not hold a valid non-immigrant visa (F, J, H, L, A, E, etc.)
Assembly Bill 130 (AB 130) of 2011, allows students who meet AB 540 criteria to apply for and receive non-state funded scholarships for public colleges and universities. Assembly Bill 131 (AB 131) of 2011, allows students who meet AB 540 criteria to apply for and receive state-funded financial aid such as institutional grants, community college fee waivers, Cal Grant and Chafee Grant.
DACA is an administrative relief that protects eligible immigrants who came to the United States when they were children from deportation. DACA gives undocumented immigrants: 1) protection from deportation, and 2) a work permit. The program requires that the DACA status and work permit be renewed every two years.
As a response to AB 130/131, the California Dream Act application was created to allow eligible AB 540 students qualify for California state grants (Cal Grant) and other financial aid benefits within California. Available each year, the California Dream Act grants access to the CCPG fee waiver, CSM Promise, and EOPS. We strongly encourage students to complete their CA Dream Application by the March 2nd priority deadline of each academic year. Additionally, undocumented students who are ineligible to apply to the CA Dream Act can still look into scholarship opportunities through our campus. For information on the CSM Scholarship and outside scholarships, please visit the CSM Scholarships website.
Campus Support Programs
SIREN’s mission is to empower low-income immigrants and refugees through community education and organizing, leadership development, policy advocacy, civic engagement and legal services.
You need to complete the CA Dream Act financial aid application to see if you are eligible for the following types of aid:
- Cal Grant, Chafee Grant, Middle Class Scholarship
- UC Grants, State University Grants
- California Community College (CCC) California Promise Grant
- EOP/EOPS
- Some University scholarships
- Some private scholarships administered by campuses
| Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cal Grant B | $1,648 per year |
| Chafee Grant | Up to $5000 per year |
| Student Success Completion Grant | $4,000 per semester |
| Scholarships | Up to $20,000 per year |
| CCPG | $1,610 per year |
| EOPS | Varies |
The California Dream Act Service Incentive Grant Program (DSIG) encourages California Dream Act Application (CADAA) students with a Cal Grant B award to perform community or volunteer service.
Academic Support Resources
| Immigo | Features Immigration Basics, Legal Help Finder, Immigration News, Training & Events |
| Citizenshipworks | Eligibility Requirements to become a U.S. Citizen, Filling out the Application, Study Tools, Getting Ready for the Interview |
| Dreamer's Roadmap | Explore up-to-date Scholarships available for undocumented students. Get deadline reminders and tips when applying! |
| Notifica | A project by United We Dream, the app allows anyone to send a message to a preselected number of people in case of detainment. |
| Oportunidad | Civic Engagement, Immigration, Economic Empowerment, Find Help, News |
- Food resources
- Transportation Resources
- Housing resources
- Emergency Fund Assistance
- Book Vouchers
- Resources for Undocumented Students
- Clothing Resources
- School supplies, toiletry items and more.
Legal Support
It's important to understand your rights when confronted by authorities. The following organizations have more information available on their websites.
- The Know Your Rights webpage maintained by the American Civil Liberties Union provides specific advice about what to do when confronted, questioned or arrested by immigration authorities. You can also download a quick guide to your rights: In English | En Español
- The Immigrant Legal Resource Center has more information about your legal rights if you’re stopped or questioned and special information for LGBTQ immigrants. The center also has a general resources page and a handbook for immigrant youth.
- The Rapid Response Network for Santa Clara County, coordinated by Sacred Heart Community Service, maintains a 24-hour telephone hotline at 408.294.1144 to report immigration enforcement activity and obtain support.
- If you're feeling stressed and want to talk with someone, you can contact or visit the Mental Health and Wellness Center at De Anza, or use the free online TimelyCare service.
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