Undocumented/DACA Students

Dutchess Community College was established on the belief that everyone should have access to higher education and be given the opportunity to pursue academic and career goals to the best of their ability. This is an opportunity that we believe includes all students, regardless of citizenship status or national origin.

If you are an undocumented student or one who is temporarily protected by the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival (DACA) program (also referred to as “Dreamers”), we encourage you to apply without hesitation. We welcome your participation both in the classroom, and through involvement in the extracurricular activities offered on campus. Your contribution will be valued and your perspective will add to the diversity that makes us strong.

As a member of the SUNY network of colleges and universities we wholeheartedly support the position of SUNY Chairman H. Carl McCall and Chancellor Kristina M. Johnson as outlined in their statement on the Repeal of DACA, dated September 5, 2017.

At DCC, we will continue to ensure that all of our students are able to attend classes in an environment that is supportive, free from fear and sensitive to the unique challenges they may be facing. It is not now – nor has it ever been – our practice to identify or “track” students by their citizenship status. We will not provide personal information about our students to immigration officials unless we are ordered to do so by law.* If you should become a member of the DCC community, rest assured that we will do all that we can to assist you in achieving your goals during your time on campus and after graduation.

Our admission counselors are available to answer any specific questions you may have regarding the application process. Student Financial Services also can help answer questions about in-state tuition requirements. You also may qualify for merit scholarships from the DCC Foundation, as the FAFSA requirement is waived for students who are unable to complete it.

We have also provided links to websites that will be helpful in answering general questions pertaining to DACA immigration policies and who you can contact if you need additional information.

To be connected to the DCC Undocumented Student Group or others who can provide assistance contact Steven Posada, chair of the Dutchess Consortium for Undocumented Students, at steven.posada@sunydutchess.edu; (845) 431-8017 or Taconic Hall 307.

* A 2011 memo from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) designates college campuses as “sensitive locations,” meaning that enforcement actions (i.e. arrests, searches, interviews, and surveillance) cannot occur or be focused on college campuses unless: (a) exigent circumstances exist; (b) other law enforcement actions have led officers to campus; or (c) prior approval is obtained.