Citizen eligibility requirements and guidelines

Eligibility for federal student aid is based on financial need and on several other factors. This page outlines information about submitting documentation to verify citizen eligibility as requested by the Financial Aid office.

• If the Financial Aid office requested verification of your citizen eligibility, you must provide either proof of U.S. Citizenship or documentation of Eligible Non-Citizenship status. i.e. Copy of Birth Certificate, Certificate of Citizenship from INS, U.S Passport.

• You must submit two copies of both sides of the documentation (such as Form I-151; Form I551; Form I-94; a Certificate of Naturalization; a Certificate of Citizenship) either in person or by mail.  Be sure that your photocopies are clear and readable.  Make sure you are not submitting expired documents.

• If there is no picture on your document or if the picture on your document was taken when you were 14 years old or younger, you must also provide a copy of a valid CA Driver’s License (or other valid CA Photo Identification).

• If you have applied under the Federal Amnesty Program, you must submit two copies of Form I-688 to verify that your legal residency has been approved by INS to receive federal funds.

• If you have any questions about the request for Immigration Documentation, contact the Financial Aid Office at (805) 437-8530.  Delays in submitting this information will delay the processing of your application for financial aid.

• Note: If you are an undocumented student, you are not eligible for federal or state funding.