Financial Aid
Planning for College
Once in College
AB 540
Miscellaneous
100
Everyone can afford to go to college!
True. Many colleges are expensive but attending college is NOT impossible. There are financial aid options available like scholarships, Grants, work-study and student loans for all students, including AB 540 students.
100
You should start applying for college now.
True. It's never too early! You can start planning now in order to be prepared for the challenges of High School. This preparation will allow you to be ready to attend any college of your choice.
100
College is too hard.
False! It's challenging but not impossible. If you are accepted to college you can do the work.
100
California legislation AB 540 allows qualified students to pay in-state or resident tuition at California public colleges and universities regardless of family residency.
True! Before undocumented students had to pay out of state tuition which double or tripled their cost! To qualify a student must have attended a California high school for 3 years or more, graduated from a California high school (or earn a GED equivalent) and submit a written promise to obtain legal permanent residence.
100
It is good to visit colleges before you have been admitted.
True. Visits can help you decide if it is the right college for you.
200
Only straight A students receive financial aid.
False. The vast majority of federal financial aid is based on financial need only.
200
Not knowing what you want to study does not lower your chances to go to college.
True! You do not need to know exactly what you want to study. Many students enter college as undeclared majors.
200
I wont fit in!
False. Colleges have students from all different backgrounds and, more than likely, you will find people who share the same interests as you. Join student clubs and participate in social activities where you can meet new people and build friendships.
200
AB 540 students can only apply for public schools.
False! Many private schools offer students financial aid. There are also outside scholarships available!
200
College matters when it comes to getting a job.
True. Getting a college education can make more job opportunities available to you. Also, college graduates can earn almost twice as much than those who only have a high school education.
300
Scholarships are only for REALLY smart students.
False. Scholarships are given for various reasons including athletics, public/community service, ethnic background, work study, need-based, and merit.
300
I can't go to college because no one in family did.
False! Many students are first generation.
300
If you do not like your college, you can complete your education at a different college.
True! You can always transfer.
300
Undocumented or "AB540 students" cannot apply to go to college.
False! Undocumented students can apply to go to college
300
If I haven't heard of a college or university, it can't be very good.
False. Not all colleges receive the same recognition. Don't let name recognition determine a good or bad college.
400
Every family can afford a private college.
True. Students sometimes receive more financial aid if their college costs are higher.
400
I have to go far away to go to college.
False. Some students go far away and others stay close to home. It's your choice!
400
All you do is study...
False! You can decide what to do with your free time. Colleges and universities have different opportunities where you can join sports and clubs, do community service, work or hang out with friends!
400
Cal Grants and Chafee Foster Youth Grants can only be used at public schools.
False! Cal Grants and Chafee Foster Youth Grants can be used at ELIGIBLE public and private institutions.
400
A lot of out-of-class activities will compensate for poor grades.
False. Colleges consider out-of-class activities such as athletics, student government, and music when they review an application. But colleges look at your academic performance first. There needs to be a balance between both.
500
Paying someone to search for scholarships will help you get more scholarships.
FALSE! You should never pay anyone!
500
The more famous the college is the better!
False, it is about you!
500
You can party ALL the time!
False! You are responsible for your own academics. Failing courses can cost you any financial aid received!
500
Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) allows immigrants who enter the country without authorization before age 16, have pursued education or military services and meet other guidelines can qualify for deportation relief, which means the person will not be deported and qualifies for a work permit (renewable every 2 years).
True! Students may qualify if: 1. Were under the age of 31 as of June 15, 2012 2. Came to the United States before reaching your 16th birthday. 3. Have continuously resided in the United States since June 15, 2007, up to the present time. 4. Were physically present in the United States on June 15, 2012, and at the time of making your request for consideration of deferred action with USCIS. 5. Had no lawful status on June 15, 2012. 6. Are currently in school, have graduated or obtained a certificate of completion from high school, have obtained a general education development (GED) certificate, or are an honorably discharged veteran of the Coast Guard or Armed Forces of the United States; 7. Have not been convicted of a felony, significant misdemeanor,or three or more other misdemeanors, and do not otherwise pose a threat to national security or public safety.
500
Where can you find the GEAR UP office and name 1 service GEAR UP provides?
GEAR UP 4 LA Office is located on the Second Floor. Some of the services include: - College and career awareness for students and their families - College visits - Financial literacy/aid information - After school tutoring - Student mentor program - Academic/college counseling - Math classes in the summer - Parent workshops - Help exploring summer programs - Concurrent enrollment classes And More!
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