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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
College is a long way from now, it's too early to think about it.
FALSE! It's never too early! 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
An AB540 student is someone who is undocumented and is not a legal resident.
TRUE.
100
It is a good idea 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
If you don't know what you want to study, you should not go to college.
FALSE! 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 not apply to college.
FALSE! AB540 students CAN apply to any college, public or private.
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 my family did.
False! Many students are first generation, they are the first in their family to go to college.
300
If you do not like your college, you can complete your education at a different college.
True! You can always transfer.
300
AB540 students can only receive an Associates Degree or A.A.
False! AB540 students may obtain any degree they want.
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
AB540 students can apply for federal student aid.
False! AB540 students cannot apply for federal student aid, only state aid.
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. The college needs to be a right "fit" for 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 & may cause you to be put on academic probation, even kicked out!
500
California legislation AB540 allows qualified students to pay in-state or resident tuition at California public colleges and universities.
True! Before undocumented students had to pay out-of-state tuition.
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!