Additional Populations One-Stop Resource Page
Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)
Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is a policy that allows certain individuals who meet program requirements to request a grant of deferred action against their immigration status. Individuals who are granted DACA can renew their grant and are eligible for work authorization.
**Since October 31, 2022, no new applications have been accepted but are NOT being processed. Only renewals.*** USCIS
A person may request consideration of DACA if they:
- Were under the age of 31 as of June 15, 2012;
- Came to the United States before reaching their 16th birthday;
- Have continuously resided in the United States since June 15, 2007, up to the present time;
- Were physically present in the United States on June 15, 2012, and at the time of making the request for consideration of deferred action with USCIS;
- Entered without inspection before June 15, 2012, or their lawful immigration status expired as of June 15, 2012;
- They are currently in school, have graduated or obtained a certificate of completion from high school, have obtained a general education development (GED) certificate, or are an honorably discharged veteran of the Coast Guard or Armed Forces of the United States;
- Have not been convicted of a felony, significant misdemeanor, or three or more other misdemeanors, and do not otherwise pose a threat to national security or public safety.
Resources on Attending University
This is a great article that outlines the hurdles that those without status face while pursuing a higher degree. It offers solutions to some of those problems, and highlights friendly schools. Geared towards those looking to attend university.
5 Things Undocumented Students Should Know Before Attending College in the U.S.
Information for scholarships, legal aid, and resource centers at universities.
Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities
Clear outline of the DACA legal description and rights in higher education.
Minnesota Office of Higher Education
Resource for DACA and other undocumented individuals who are interested in attending, already attending, or planning to transfer universities.
Higher Ed Immigration Portal.
How to prepare for life after college.
Career Tips from DACA College Graduates
Financial Aid
This is a webpage about financial aid eligibility and completing the FAFSA for those with Social Security Numbers.
Financial Aid and Undocumented Students
Since 2013, Minnesota has provided financial aid benefits to undocumented students. You do NOT need to be a DACA recipient to apply.
Minnesota Dream Act Eligibility and Necessary Documents
This page provides links to the Minnesota Dream Act Application. The application must be completed no later than the 30th day of the academic term and must be resubmitted every academic year.
Minnesota Dream Act Application
The SELF loan is a long-term, low-interest loan through the Minnesota Office of Higher Education. You must be a Minnesota resident to qualify.
SELF Loan through the Office of Higher Education
A fellowship that provides substantial support to immigrants or the children of immigrants for their graduate or professional studies. See eligibility here. Each award is up to $90,000.
Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans
General Resources
Line by line instructions and videos on how to apply for DACA either for the first time or renew your existing period of DACA.
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS)
An open helpline for legal questions related to DACA.
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS):
A large number of resources aimed at legal fluency for those seeking DACA and those already in DACA status. They also provide webinars and self-learning resources.
Immigrant Legal Resource Center
Mixed-Status Families
A mixed-status family is a family whose members include people with different citizenship or immigration statuses. One example of a mixed-status family is one in which the parents are undocumented, and the children are U.S. citizens. These dynamics can cause uncertainty and barriers to healthcare and education. Please find below some resources geared toward mixed-status families.
National Immigration Law Center: Provides information for those in mixed-status families looking for ways to access health care.
Unidos MN (para información Español): This website has a short guide to help students with mixed-status households file for the Minnesota Dream Act and FAFSA. It also provides other resources such as scholarships, pregnancy care, counseling, and English classes.
Supporting Undocumented and DACA-mented Students
We invite non-identifying staff, faculty, and alums interested in supporting Undocumented and DACA-mented students to get involved by providing resources and support.
Educators for Fair Consideration: Top 10 Ways to Support Undocumented Students: Quick tips divided by department for university staff and faculty to help guide them through undocumented student advocacy.
National Forum on Higher Education for the Public Good Recommendations & Resources to Increase Access for Undocumented Students: Resource for organizations that can provide relevant information and in some cases, assistance or advice when questions arise with undocumented students seeking to attend university.
Notice of Nondiscrimination
All student clubs and organizations recognized by the University are open to all students at St. Kate's regardless of race, age, ethnicity, religion, gender, ability, veteran status, and all other protected classes of identity. Additionally, all offices and resources at St. Catherine University provides support and services to all students, faculty, and staff. All are welcome!
