Information on this site is not legal advice and is not a substitute for legal advice. Speak with an attorney regarding eligibility before applying for any immigration benefit. See our resources page to contact a local immigration attorney.

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is a form of administrative relief from deportation. The purpose of DACA is to protect eligible immigrant youth who came to the United States when they were children from deportation. DACA gives young undocumented immigrants: 1) protection from deportation and 2) a work permit. The program expires after two years, subject to renewal.

WHAT ARE THE REQUIRMENTS FOR DACA? 

• You were under 31 years old as of June 15, 2012;
• You first came to the United States before your 16th birthday;
• You have lived continuously in the United States from June 15, 2007 until the present;
• You were physically present in the United States on June 15, 2012 and at the time you apply;
• You came to the United States without documents before June 15, 2012, or your lawful status expired as of June 15, 2012;
• You are currently studying, or you graduated from high school or earned a certificate of completion of high school or GED, or have been honorably discharged from the Coast Guard or military (technical and trade school completion also qualifies); and
• You have NOT been convicted of a felony, certain significant misdemeanors (including a single DUI), or three or more misdemeanors of any kind.

Consult with an attorney about ANY contact you have had with law enforcement or immigration authorities.

Initial DACA applications (those people who are applying for the very first time) are not currently being accepted by USCIS.  You can find up to date information here.  

Please consult with an immigration attorney and/or attend a DACA renewal workshop for assistance.

Complete and sign forms from USCIS website:

• Form I-821D, Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival
• Use the most recent version of Form I-821D 
• Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization
• Form I-765W Worksheet
• Follow the instructions on all three forms to submit them to USCIS. Make sure you submit the correct fee

Scholarships & Financial Aid for Undocumented Students:                       

2020 Scholarships for Undocumented Students                                                      

High School Scholarships for Dreamers

Immigrant Rising DACA Mini Grants & Scholarships 

California Dream Act           

Immigrant Legal Resource Center