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Undocumented & DACA student admissions

Financial aid awards for fall 2024

This year (2024-2025 academic year) it will be easier for families to complete the FAFSA with the streamlined FAFSA application. The new FAFSA form is now available. UMassD anticipates sending award letters in late spring.

UMass Dartmouth is a welcoming academic community. We encourage Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) and undocumented students to apply for admission.

Deferred action qualifications

In accordance with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), you are eligible for deferred action status if you meet all of the following criteria:

  • were under the age of 31 as of June 15, 2012
  • came to the United States before reaching your 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 your lawful immigration status expired as of June 15, 2012
  • 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; and
  • have not been convicted of a felony, significant misdemeanor, three or more other misdemeanors, and do not otherwise pose a threat to national security or public safety.

In-state tuition benefit

In November 2012, the governor of Massachusetts announced that students who qualify for Deferred Action Childhood Arrivals program would be eligible for in-state tuition and fees. The requirements for applying for Deferred Action include the submissions of Form I-765, the Application for Employment Authorization. Once approved, you must submit the following documents with your application to be eligible for in-state tuition and fees at UMass Dartmouth:

  • Employment Authorization Documentation (also known as a work permit)
  • I-797, Notice of Action

You must also meet Massachusetts residency requirements to be eligible for in-state tuition.

Financing your education

At this time, DACA and undocumented students are not eligible for state, federal, or institutional financial aid. However, UMass Dartmouth will award institutional scholarships to academically eligible students. You are also encouraged to consider alternative financing options such as external scholarships and the university’s in-house payment plan.   

Application

You are encouraged to apply online using either the Common Application or UMass Dartmouth’s online application. When completing your application, DACA students should indicate that they are a non-U.S. citizen and a Massachusetts resident.

Contact us

Contact the Office of Undergraduate Admissions so we can assist you with the process: 508.999.8605 or undergraduate@admissions.umassd.edu

Admissions counselors are also available for individual appointments throughout the college application process.

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