Student Aid Commission: California Dream Act application.

Senator Pérez's legislation directs the California Student Aid Commission to modify the California Dream Act application process to accommodate all students eligible for state financial aid programs, regardless of their federal aid status. The changes must be implemented before the 2026-27 financial aid cycle.

The bill requires the Commission to collaborate with California's public and private colleges and universities on promoting the Dream Act application while clearly communicating available financial aid options to students and families. The Commission must prominently display eligibility criteria, types of aid available through each application pathway, and key differences between applications on its website and Dream Act forms. Applicants must also explicitly acknowledge that completing the Dream Act application precludes consideration for federal student aid programs.

These modifications build upon existing provisions that allow students exempt from non-resident tuition under Education Code Section 68130.5 to access state financial aid programs. The bill maintains current eligibility requirements while updating administrative procedures to ensure the application system serves all qualifying students.