In the context of education, a “multiple language learner” typically refers to a student who is learning or proficient in more than one language. College admissions practices can vary by institution and location, but many colleges and universities in the United States have implemented policies and programs to support undocumented students, including those who are beneficiaries of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program.
Here are some common measures that colleges take to support undocumented students:
An issue for some of us is an issue for all of us. The Infinite Scholars Program understands the challenges faced by deserving students affected by post-secondary limitations due to citizenship.
1. **Dedicated Support Services**: Many colleges have established dedicated offices or support services for undocumented students. These offices provide information, resources, and guidance on admissions, financial aid, and legal matters. They can also offer academic and emotional support.
2. **Admissions Policies**: Some colleges have adopted more inclusive admissions policies, allowing undocumented students to apply and be considered for admission without regard to their immigration status.
3. **In-State Tuition**: In some states, undocumented students may be eligible for in-state tuition rates, which are significantly lower than out-of-state rates. These policies are often referred to as “tuition equity” or “tuition equality.”
4. **Financial Aid and Scholarships**: Some colleges offer financial aid or scholarships specifically for undocumented students, as well as for DACA recipients. Private organizations and foundations may also provide scholarship opportunities.
5. **DACA Support**: Many institutions offer support and resources for DACA recipients, including assistance with the renewal process. Some colleges have also publicly advocated for the continuation of the DACA program.
6. **Legal Resources**: Some colleges provide access to legal resources or partnerships with immigration attorneys to help students navigate immigration-related challenges.
7. **Counseling and Mental Health Services**: Recognizing the unique stressors and challenges faced by undocumented students, some colleges offer counseling and mental health services tailored to their needs.
8. **Advocacy and Awareness**: Colleges may engage in advocacy efforts to support policies and legislation that benefit undocumented students, including advocating for the DREAM Act and other pro-immigrant policies.
9. **Educational Workshops**: Many institutions host informational workshops and events to educate both students and staff about immigration issues, rights, and available resources.
Below are some institutions known for their support of undocumented students:
1. **University of California System**: All University of California (UC) campuses, including UC Berkeley, UCLA, and others, have established Undocumented Student Centers that provide comprehensive support, legal resources, and financial aid information for undocumented students.
2. **California State University System**: California State University (CSU) campuses, such as CSU Long Beach and CSU Northridge, have similar support programs and centers for undocumented students.
3. **Harvard University**: Harvard’s Act on a Dream is a student-led organization that provides support, advocacy, and resources for undocumented students.
4. **The University of Texas at Austin**: UT Austin has the Longhorn Dreamers Project, which offers legal services and resources for undocumented students.
5. **Columbia University**: Columbia provides resources through its Undocumented Student Initiative to support undocumented students in their pursuit of higher education.
6. **The City University of New York (CUNY)**: CUNY’s Citizenship Now! provides free immigration legal services and assistance to students and the community, including undocumented students.
7. **Stanford University**: Stanford’s First-Generation and/or Low-Income Partnership (FLIP) includes resources for undocumented students, including academic and financial support.
8. **New York University (NYU)**: NYU’s DREAM Team is a student organization that advocates for the rights of undocumented students and offers support.
9. **University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign**: The Illinois Commitment program offers in-state tuition to undocumented students who meet certain criteria.
10. **San Francisco State University**: SF State offers the DREAMSF program, providing support for undocumented students, including academic advising and financial aid information.
11. **Berea College**: Berea College, located in Berea, Kentucky, is known for its commitment to providing access to education and support to students from low-income backgrounds, and this includes support for undocumented students.
12. **Skidmore College**: Skidmore has resources and information available on their website for undocumented and DACA students regarding admission, financial aid, and campus support.