What Is DACA?
DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) is an administrative relief from deportation. DACA's purpose is to protect eligible immigrants who came to the United States before their 16th birthday and were younger than 31 years old as of June 15, 2012.
In addition to protection from deportation, DACA also gives young, undocumented immigrants a work permit. DACA provides approved applicants with a renewable two-year period of deferred action from deportation.
Currently, the federal government must continue to accept applications to renew a student's DACA status, protecting approximately 700,000 young immigrants from deportation and granting them two-year, renewable work permits, according to the New York Times. The state of Texas and other plaintiffs have sued the federal government to rescind the program.
"The situation for DACA students across the country is tenuous, but Dallas College will continue to support our DACA students," said Dr. Joe May. "We have a history of welcoming and encouraging DACA students to pursue their dreams and to be part of our higher education community. As I've said previously, Dallas College stands ready to help our undocumented students under the
Noriega Bill, which is state law, whether or not DACA continues."
Things to Know if you are a DREAMER or DACA student
The State of Texas provides both in-state tuition and state financial aid to eligible undocumented students.
HB 1403 | In-state Tuition Eligibility Requirements
- Graduated from a public or private high school or received the equivalent of a high school diploma in Texas.
- Resided in this state for at least one year between the first day the person attended a public or private high school in this state and the date the person graduated from a public or private high school in this state or received the equivalent of a high school diploma.
- Registers as an entering student in an institution of higher education not earlier than the 2001 fall semester.
- 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.
For more information from Dallas College Governmental Affairs:
Information and Resources
The information and resources included on this page are provided for informational purposes only and do not imply, nor should their inclusion be construed as, an endorsement by Dallas College of any organization, agency or service listed, nor does exclusion imply or constitute disapproval. The College makes no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained herein, nor does it claim responsibility for any actions taken by any of the organizations or agencies included above. The College disclaims any responsibility or liability for any direct, indirect, special, punitive or consequential damages which may result in any form from the use of the information or resources provided herein. Students should contact the organization or agency listed directly for answers to questions regarding resources or services.
Legal Assistance
Non-for profits organizations providing low cost/free legal services and referrals:
DACA Renewal Application and Funding Assistance
-
North Texas Dream Team (NTDT)
- Mexican Consulate - Individuals need to go in person to receive assistance and information on DACA renewal support. Address: 1210 River Bend Dr. Dallas, TX 75247.
- The City of Dallas Office of Welcoming Communities and Immigrant Affairs: Emma Lazarus Resilience Fund
See a
list of local community organizations providing services and resources to immigrant communities.
Scholarships Opportunities for Undocumented, DACA and DACA Eligible Students
Other local resources
Related News Articles (Some maybe behind a paywall)