Undocumented Student Program
Announcements
Upcoming Events
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Mission
The Undocumented Student Program (USP) provides services, resources, and support to undocumented students and mixed-status families. Through advocacy for educational equity and by fostering an inclusive and welcoming campus environment, USP is committed to empowering and celebrating undocumented student resilience.
Vision
Our vision is to build partnerships and relationships with students, staff, faculty, administrators, and community members to better serve undocumented communities. UNLV USP honors and recognizes the hard work of undocumented students and their allies in the continued advocacy for thriving communities and equity in higher education.
Staff
Get Support
Set up an Appointment
The Resource Coordinator for the Undocumented Student Program (USP) supports students by coordinating campus and community resources based on their unique needs and academic goals. This staff member provides support for students who are undocumented, students with DACA and students in mixed-status families. Set up an appointment with our Resource Coordinator by emailing nayelli.ricolopez@unlv.edu or by calling 702-895-5658.
How we can help you:
- Undocumented and DACA student support
- Basic needs assistance (food/housing)
- Financial aid and scholarship assistance
- Individualized assistance based on your goals
- Mental health and well-being support
- And more!
Drop-In Hours
Due to Covid-19 considerations, our Resource Coordinator is not currently available for drop-in hours.
Follow us on Social Media:
Programming
NSHE Virtual Town Hall on DACA Issues
The Nevada System of Higher Education held a town hall with Chancellor Reilly at 4 p.m., Tuesday, April 28, 2020 to discuss concerns around the uncertainty of the Supreme Court DACA decision and its impacts on immigrant students and staff.
Roots & Resilience: Healing for Undocumented Communities
The Undocumented Student Program and Office of Student Diversity Programs hosted a series of healing workshops with information about immigration-related stress, as well as supportive resources and strategies for coping. .
Frequently Asked Questions
defines “undocumented” broadly to include all immigrants who reside in the United States without legal status. They include individuals who:
- Entered without Inspection (also known as “EWI”): Individuals who entered the United States without presenting themselves for inspection at an official checkpoint to obtain permission to enter the country (e.g. crossing the border without inspection).
- Entered with Legal Status but Overstayed: Individuals who entered the United States with legal status (e.g. student visa) and then remained in the country after their ‘duration of status’ date (found on their I-94) or after their visa expired.
- Have or Previously Had Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA): Individuals who have been granted temporary reprieve from deportation through the federal government’s Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. Additionally, individuals who had DACA in the past, or will be eligible to request DACA later if the program is fully reinstated.
- Are Currently in the Process of Legalizing: Individuals who are pursuing legalization (e.g. U.S. Citizen Spouse Petition or U-visa pending, etc.) but currently have no legal status.
- Vulnerable Immigrants: Individuals whose immigration status is in ‘limbo’ or puts them ‘at-risk’ for being targeted by immigration enforcement. This could occur due to many factors, such as politics (e.g. TPS program at risk of being canceled due to shift in the policy), to U-visa recipients who cannot adjust their status due to personal circumstances (e.g. lack of funds, missing a deadline).
It is also important to note that while all DACA recipients are undocumented, not all undocumented individuals are DACA recipients. Selection is contingent upon meeting criteria and the completion and federal government review of an individual's DACA application. Learn about resources for DACA for first-time applicants.
U.S. citizenship is not a requirement for admission to UNLV and we welcome all students who seek education and the opportunities it provides. Therefore, any individual can apply to be a student and, if accepted, enroll for classes.
Please note that a social security number (SSN) is not required to apply to UNLV. If you don’t have a social security number you can write in all zeros (0) instead of an SSN on your application. For assistance with the UNLV application, please contact the UNLV Office of Admissions.
Undocumented and DACA students who have graduated from a Nevada high school are automatically eligible for in-state tuition.
If a student did not graduate from a Nevada high school, they must submit the Nevada Residency Application to be eligible for residency tuition rates. Please contact the Undocumented Student Program for assistance with the application.
Undocumented and DACA students are not eligible for federal financial aid, but may apply for university-based and alternate financial aid at UNLV, including some scholarships through their college or department. For information on financial aid, visit the Financial Aid website and browse through the resources on the Undocumented Student Program website.
Undocumented and DACA students are encouraged to submit the Alternate Need Determination Form, which serves as an alternate form for students who are not eligible for FAFSA. DACA students may still submit the FAFSA if that is required for a specific scholarship or program, but they will not receive federal aid.
Follow the UNLV Immigration Clinic and the Undocumented Student Program (USP) on Facebook & Instagram for immigration updates, scholarships, and other helpful resources.
- UNLV Immigration Clinic: @unlvimmigration
- Undocumented Student Program: @uspunlv
If the DACA program ends, this does not necessarily mean that your employer will automatically terminate you. However, if your employment authorization expires, it is a violation of federal law for an employer to continue to employ you after your work authorization expires. Despite this, you still have rights in the workplace. For more information, please follow the link: .
If you are a DACA recipient you can work on campus under funding that is not federal. Most work-study positions require you to fill out the FAFSA and are federally funded, so DACA recipients do not qualify for those. Although, undocumented students who do not have a work permit or social security number do not qualify to work on campus, there are other opportunities that they do qualify for. Undocumented students qualify for stipends.
For more information on how undocumented students can make money visit and learn about how undocumented folks in the community are creating their own opportunities.
Undocumented students (with and without DACA) are important members of our campus community. If you are facing discrimination, you might be feeling a range of emotions, including anger, sadness, and other feelings. The Undocumented Student Program is here to support you, help identify your rights, and provide assistance for next steps that you may want to take. Please contact us for individualized assistance. Undocumented students and staff can also visit The Office of Equal Employment and Title IX to learn more about how title IX protects students against discrimination.
Students who are DACA recipients have the option of applying for Advance Parole, which allows them to leave the country and return legally for humanitarian, work, or education related matters. It is highly recommended that individuals interested in applying for Advance Parole work seek assistance from an immigration attorney, as there are risks involved in leaving the country as an undocumented person. Find a reputable immigration attorney through the .
The International Programs office provides information about studying abroad and studying within the country. The National Student Exchange (NSE) is a program for exchange within the United States and Canada.
A student’s education record is protected under the Family Education Rights & Privacy Act (FERPA). Any record that directly relates to a student and is maintained by the institution or a party acting on behalf of the institution is considered an education record. UNLV complies with federal and state law with respect to disclosure of a student’s education record to outside parties.
UNLV maintains "directory" information for students, including name, class level, major, email, address, and telephone numbers. Individuals and external organizations may request this information, but the university carefully reviews and considers each request, and not all requests are fulfilled. FERPA does not prohibit disclosure of directory information. Learn more about UNLV's definition of directory information.
Because U.S. citizenship is not a requirement of admission, UNLV does not track undocumented or DACA status of its students.
Yes, however the student also will no longer receive official and other important correspondence from UNLV. If a student does not want UNLV to disclose any or all of their directory information without prior written consent, the student must request this through their MyUNLV account. Learn more about FERPA.
Please contact the UNLV Office of General Counsel during business hours at 702-895-5185 for immediate assistance in any situation in which a law enforcement officer requests personal or personally identifiable information or records relating to a student. If not during normal business hours, contact University Police Services at 702-895-3668.
You may ask the law enforcement officer for their name, identification number, and agency affiliation, and also for a copy of any warrant or subpoena presented. Inform the officer that you are not obstructing their process, but following standard university practice and must contact the appropriate UNLV office for assistance.
Historically, external law enforcement agencies have notified University Police Services in advance of arriving on campus to execute a warrant or subpoena.
Campus Resources
Advisors are resources who serve as guides through academic choices, policies, and requirements. During the advising session, students will discuss upcoming courses and degree requirements based on their current coursework, their commitments outside of UNLV, and their intended educational goals. The advisor may make recommendations, but the ultimate decision rests with the student. Advisors are excited to discuss goals and look forward to meeting with students.
UNLV offers institutional grants and scholarship opportunities based on merit or financial need for students who do not have the opportunity to apply for Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Additionally, non-FAFSA eligible students can apply for private scholarships. For additional financial assistance or resources, please contact the Undocumented Student Program.
- Alternate Need Determination Form
This form is available for students who are not eligible for FAFSA, and will review the financial need and consideration for UNLV institutional need-based grant and scholarship programs. - Financial Aid for DACA, International and Undocumented Students at UNLV
- Webinar:
The Fullfillment Fund hosted a workshop during Fall 2020 to inform undocumented and DACA students about their financial aid options in Nevada college and universities. Watch the recording here. El video está disponible en español . - Supporting Our Students (S.O.S) Fund
The Supporting Our Students (S.O.S.) Emergency Student Relief Fund provides both one-time (per academic year) funding when assistance is needed with unexpected emergency situations as well as sustained financial coaching to develop budgetary literacy skills.
Check out the Undocumented Student Program (USP) guide for submitting the Alternate Need Determination Form. This includes Frequently Asked Questions as well as a step-by-step tutorial for submitting the form through the Rebel Success Hub.
Students are eligible for access to services and programming at the Student Wellness Center regardless of immigration status. For additional health and wellness services, contact the Undocumented Student Program.
- Student Health Center
The UNLV Student Health Center is an accredited facility by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC). Our board-certified clinicians and health care team are dedicated to helping you prevent injury, treat illness, and reduce the risk of acute and chronic disease. - CARE Center
The CARE Center provides free and confidential support services to members of the UNLV community who have been impacted by sexual assault, relationship abuse, family violence and/or stalking. Programs and services are available to people of all identities and regardless of status. - Student Counseling and Psychological Services
Student Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) can help you manage your feelings so that you can make the most out of your college experience. Our clinicians are trained to help you work through problems commonly experienced by college students of all ages and backgrounds. - The Practice
The PRACTICE is a dynamic community mental health clinic located on UNLV’s main campus offering mental and behavioral health services. - Center for Individual, Couple, and Family Counseling
The Center for Individual, Couple & Family Counseling is a mental health facility that provides quality, low-cost therapy to residents of the Las Vegas community. - UNLV Food Pantry
The year-round UNLV Food Pantry provides non-perishable items to university students, staff, and faculty who need additional food.
The UNLV Immigration Clinic is now offering free of charge legal advice and representation to UNLV and CSN students, staff, and their family members. Call 702-895-2080 for more information or fill out their to make an appointment. University Legal Services offers assistance with:
- DACA forms and renewals
- Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Requests
- Screening for immigration relief
- And more!
- The Intersection
We are a one-stop resource for UNLV’s highly diverse student body — a comprehensive multicultural center grounded in the academic life of our students. As an intersecting campus resource, we help ensure students, particularly first-generation and students of color, successfully navigate their academic careers - Student Diversity & Social Justice
Student Diversity & Social Justice advocates with a diverse student population to amplify and affirm student’s identities through an intersectional framework to promote student success. We are a student-centered office committed to educating, empowering, and developing UNLV students as leaders to recognize and address societal injustices.
The UNLV UndocuNetwork is Registered Student Organization dedicated to empowering undocumented and immigrant communities. For updates, find them on Facebook.com/Undocunetwork.
Scholarships
For scholarship assistance or information, please set up an appointment with the USP Resource Coordinator at undocumented@unlv.edu or call 702-895-3011.
: CSUN and the Undocumented Student Program (USP) have teamed up to provide financial assistance to undocumented undergraduate students who are overcoming systemic barriers in achieving higher education. This scholarship will be awarded to four (4) students at $2,000 each, which will be dispersed over two academic semesters. The deadline for the 2022-2023 scholarship application is April 3, 2022 at 11:59 p.m.
: UNLV is a proud partner of , the Nation's largest college and career success program for immigrant youth. This scholarship is open to First-Time College Students (High School or GED program graduate by the end of the Spring 2022 term); Community College Graduates; or Students at a 4-year institution who have not earned more than 21 credits before the Fall of 2022. For more information and to apply, visit .
Information for Faculty/Staff
The All Access Taskforce (AAT) is composed of students, faculty and staff who are committed to building a comprehensive support system for campus community members who are undocumented or who receive Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), as well those who identify as immigrants and are from mixed-status families. To learn more about the AAT, please email USP at undocumented@unlv.edu.
The AAT advises and supports efforts to:
- Recruit and retain undocumented students and staff/faculty
- Collaborate to create solutions and increase campus accessibility for the undocumented community through advocacy, policy changes, programming, and other solutions
- Implement practical, research-informed, and systemic policies to provide tangible resources and on-campus support for undocumented folk
Adapted from The University of Utah Dream Center.
The Undocumented Student Program (USP) is proud to to host UndocuAlly Training for faculty, staff, and administration in order to encourage the development of a safe and welcoming campus for undocumented students.
Register as an Individual
- UndocuAlly Training 101: Friday, March 5th from 10 am - 12 pm.
- This training aims to increase faculty and staff knowledge about policies and language related to immigration, including myths & misconceptions about undocumented students.
- UndocuAlly Training 102: Saturday, March 12th from 10 am - 12 pm
- This training aims to increase faculty and staff knowledge about the unique needs of undocumented communities, as well as strategies and resources for supporting undocumented students.
Request an UndocuAlly Workshop
To learn more about UndocuAlly Training or to request a training for your office or department, please email Mariana Sarmiento at mariana.sarmiento@unlv.edu.
The Internal Needs Assessment is a research study conducted in Spring 2021 in collaboration with the UNLV Undocumented Student Program and various campus departments and organizations with the goal of understanding and supporting UNLV's immigrant and mixed-status communities. The study covers policy, methods, demographics, findings, growth opportunities, recommendations, and more.
This internal needs assessment would not have been possible without the support of: Dr. Nicholas Barr, Toni Chance, Kamisha Johnson, Rimi Marwah, Alejandro Rios, Undocu Taskforce, Campus partners that helped distribute this survey, and lastly all student participants.
Questions regarding the study may be directed to undocumented@unlv.edu.
External Resources
The following organizations and websites are provided for information and resource purposes. The links provided on this web page are not under the direct or indirect control of UNLV and are provided as a convenience to you. By clicking on any such hyperlink, you will be leaving the UNLV website.