FinAid FAQ

What if my parent(s) live and work in another country?

If your parents do not live in the U.S., they must still report their income if you are considered a dependent student.

The only exceptions are: If you are independent, have a legal guardian, or if you have never had communication or support from parents. Otherwise, you still have to report what your parents make in another country. You will need to convert this amount to U.S. dollars on your application.

What if my parents do not file taxes because they do not work legally?

If you are dependent on your parents and want to receive state Financial Aid, your parents must do taxes and can use a Federal ITIN number instead of a Social Security Number on their tax forms.

Do I have to sign up for Selective Service?

If you are a male, 18 years of age or older, and applying for the California Dream Act, you must register for Selective Service by visiting your local Post Office and filling out a paper application. Once you send this in, this process takes 4-6 weeks to approve. You will then receive a confirmation card. You should provide a copy of this card with Financial Aid along with a Selective Service Verification form. You will not receive Financial Aid until this is done.

What loans can I apply for?

Beginning in Fall 2014, UC Berkeley Dream Aid recipient students will be offered institutional loans as part of their Financial Aid package. Students can also take out a short-term emergency loan through the Financial Aid & Scholarships Office, but please note: These loans must be paid back within 60 days.

Students can also apply for the...

What if I can't work while I go to school?

If you are unable to work, scholarships may help. Unlike loans, scholarships do not have to be paid back. You can start your scholarship search here and here. Students are also advised to work (if possible) during summer and winter breaks.

What do I do if I received a Glacier Form notification? NILF? Does this apply to me?

These forms do not apply to AB540 students. They only apply to students who do not qualify for AB540. You can email undocu@berkeley.edu to have the Glacier requirement removed.

I received a Dependent/Independent Verification form notice from Financial Aid. What do I do?

You can find these forms on the Berkeley Financial Aid Forms Portal. It is important that you complete these forms as soon as possible. If you need further assistance, you may schedule an appointment with a USP Counselor or contact us at undocu@berkeley.edu or 510-642-7224.

I received a Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) appeal from Financial Aid. What do I do?

If you are not meeting SAP requirements and want to explain your circumstances, you may submit an appeal. The forms can be found on the Berkeley Financial Aid Forms Portal.

A USP counselor can help you complete the Academic Plan needed for the SAP appeal. This is a contract that you make with Financial Aid. You can call 510-642-7224 to make an appointment. It is important that you complete this before the posted deadline.

I am filling out the CA Dream Act application for financial aid but my parents do not file taxes, will I still be able to receive state financial aid?

In order to receive state financial aid, if you are dependent on your parents, you must provide IRS tax forms and your parents that work must file taxes.

What will happen if I am a male and don't sign up for Selective Service?

If you are a male, and one month away from turning 18, or already 18, you must register for Selected Service in person at your local Post Office if you want to receive state Financial Aid. Otherwise, you will not receive aid.