Dreamers Center

Welcome to the South Texas College DREAMers Resource Center. DREAMers, recipients of DACA, undocumented students, and students from mixed status households may find useful information and resources, regularly updated, here, including: relevant State and Federal legislation (both passed and in discussion), Texas Application for State Financial Aid, scholarship opportunities, additional resources in the community, contact information for supportive faculty and staff, and answers to frequently asked questions.

FAQs

• Can I go to college if I am undocumented?

  Yes! DACA recipients and students who live in families with mixed immigration status can go to any college or university in the state, as long as you meet the requirements and are admitted/accepted. To avoid paying out-of-state tuition, you must meet the Senate Bill (SB) 1528 eligibility requirements.

• When should I apply?

  Applications are open throughout the year through the Apply Texas website. For more details, please visit the Office of Admissions and Records website visit us in our McAllen, Weslaco, or Rio Grande City campuses, or call 956-872-8323.

• How do I qualify to pay in-state tuition?

  Under SB 1528, students are eligible for in-state tuition if they meet the following requirements:

  • Graduated from a public or private high school or received the equivalent of a high school diploma in Texas.
  • Resided in Texas for at least three years as of the date the person graduated from high school or received the equivalent of a high school diploma.
  • Provide an affidavit stating that the individual will file an application to become a permanent resident at the earliest opportunity the individual is eligible to do so.
• Is there any type of aid to help me pay for school if I am an undocumented student?

  Yes! While SB 1403/House Bill (HB) 1403 students are not eligible for federal financial assistance, they allow you to apply for state and institutional financial aid. To receive this aid, you must fill out the Texas Application for State Financial Aid (TASFA) and submit your application no later than May 31st for the Fall semester.

• What are the differences between Texas HB 1403/SB 1528 and the Federal DREAM Act?

  The Texas’ bills function at the state level. The passage of HB 1403 and SB 1528 allow certain undocumented students to qualify for in-state tuition and to receive state financial aid and scholarships funded through private donors. The Federal DREAM Act seeks to bring conditional/permanent residency for qualifying undocumented individuals. Although not yet passed by the U.S. Congress, some of the stipulations concerning the Federal DREAM Act will require applicants to be of good moral character, have graduated from high school, be currently enrolled or completed two years of college/university, and/or have enlisted in the U.S. Army for at least two years.

• How will the Federal DREAM Act contribute to our country's well-being?

  The Federal DREAM Act will provide thousands of individuals an opportunity to contribute to our country's well-being by pursuing a higher education, or serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. Once the DREAM Act is enacted, it can benefit our economy, security, and nation as a whole.

• What are my legal options?

  It is important that you have the name and contact information of an attorney at all times. If you become detained, and Immigration and Customs Enforcement asks you to show a valid proof of identification, you have the right to speak to a lawyer. Never sign any documentation that may put you at risk of deportation before you exercise that right. Always know your alternatives before running into last minute choices and decisions.

• What is the "Deferred Action" program announced by President Obama?

  The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program grants certain undocumented youth a two (2) year work permit, and stops the deportation of individuals who meet certain requirements. Some of these requirements are:

  The individual arrived in the U.S. while under the age of sixteen (16), has continuously resided in the U.S. for five (5) years prior to June 15, 2012, and, requires enrollment in school, have graduated from high school, have obtained a general education development certificate, or are honorably discharged veteran from the Coast Guard or Armed Forces of the U.S..

  Additional requirements must be met, and further details can be found on the United States Customs and Immigration Services (USCIS) website.

• Will I be able to use my degree upon completion of my schooling?

  It is important that you consider your alternatives before pursuing a career. Many HB 1403/SB 1528 students express this as their biggest challenge upon school completion. State licensing and federal background checks place HB 1403/SB 1528 students in a disadvantage, as their identity will not match any agency record. Some HB 1403/SB 1528 students assimilate the career objectives to related fields, or seek equal opportunities in countries that welcome their potential.

• Can I travel in the United States to present at a conference?

  Students need to gain experience, and presenting at conferences is a great way to get just that. Presenting at local universities and colleges also aids in networking, exposure to new resources/opportunities, and building confidence. It is recommended that you have your current passport and school identification cards if you choose to visit another state. Under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, senate bill students can receive a state ID and/or driver’s license and may now explore the true values of education by traveling within the US.

• Is the HB 1403/SB 1528 information I provide confidential?

  Yes! Your privacy is important, and the information you provide is confidential. The records you disclose in your Apply Texas application and affidavit are for college purposes only. Please refer to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) to learn more about your rights to privacy, which includes your name, address, phone number, and migratory status.