Undocumented Resource Center

The document titled "Red Card 7 x 2.5" from Monterey County provides a bilingual (Spanish and English) summary of constitutional rights for immigrants during encounters with immigration agents. It emphasizes the right to remain silent, the right not to open the door without a valid warrant, and the right to consult with an attorney before signing any documents. The card also includes a message to present to immigration agents, asserting these constitutional protections.

• Hotline: 831-204-8082

The National Immigrant Justice Center's "Know Your Rights: If You Encounter ICE" page provides crucial information on preparing for and responding to encounters with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). It highlights individuals' constitutional rights, offers practical advice, and includes resources to help immigrant communities protect themselves.

The California Teachers Association's "Home Is Here" page offers resources and information to support immigrant educators, students, and families. It includes guidance on Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), "Know Your Rights" materials, and updates on immigration-related policies affecting California's educational communities.

The Monterey County "Know Your Rights" page provides residents and employers with immigration-related information and resources, including downloadable materials like "Red Cards" and guidance on handling warrants and subpoenas. It also lists upcoming events, such as the Salinas Immigration Forum on February 12, 2025, to educate the community about their rights.

The California Department of Justice's "Resources for California’s Immigrant Communities" page provides information on immigrants' rights, including access to housing, emergency medical care, and legal representation. It also offers guidance for immigrant students and families and tips to avoid immigration scams.

The information a student shares with a college or university is protected by federal law and cannot be shared with anyone, including immigration officials. The Federal Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) prevents schools from releasing students’ education records, including information about immigration status, except in exceptional circumstances.

Yes, undocumented students can go to any public college or university in California if they meet admissions requirements. Undocumented students cannot be denied admission based on their immigration status.

Undocumented students can pay in-state tuition if they meet the residency requirements for tuition purposes under AB540.

Yes! Undocumented students may qualify for scholarships and/or state financial aid. For complete information, visit Undocumented Resource Center Financial Assistance.

Undocumented students can pay in-state tuition if they meet the residency requirements for tuition purposes under AB540.

Undocumented students are able to continue their education at public California universities. Please look at the following sites for more information:

• CSU Resources for Undocumented Students 

•  UC Undocumented Student Resources

The California Dream Act allows undocumented and nonresident documented students who meet certain provisions to apply for and receive private scholarships funded through public universities, state administered financial aid, university grants, community college fee waivers, and Cal Grants.

Students can fill out the Dream Act Application here. Contact us if you need assistance.

The California Dream Act allows certain undocumented students to apply and receive state financial aid and receive scholarships funded through private donors. 

The Federal DREAM (Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors) Act is a federal proposal that, if passed, would provide qualifying undocumented individuals with a legal path to citizenship. This has not been passed in Congress.

CA Assembly Bill 540 (AB540) is a California law passed in 2001 which allows certain non-resident students to receive reduced in-state tuition at public colleges and universities (CCC, CSU, UC).

• AB540 does NOT grant legal residency to qualifying students.
• AB540 does NOT grant state or federal financial aid.
• AB540 only provides an exemption to the requirements of paying nonresident tuition for students who qualify.

To learn whether you’re eligible for AB 540 benefits, visit Undocumented Resource Center Financial Assistance for detailed information.

The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program was a  2012 executive order that provided undocumented young people (who meet certain criteria) a two year temporary administrative relief from deportation, and authorization to work in the U.S. 

In 2017, the Trump administration ended DACA. After a series of lawsuits filed against the administration for unlawfully terminating the program, the Supreme Court ordered the continuation of DACA applications.

Currently (as of September of 2024), DACA renewal applications are being accepted, but no initial applications are being accepted at this time.

Please contact us so we may connect you with an accredited legal representative to provide free assistance with your individual circumstances and eligibility for DACA.