Study Abroad for Dream Act Eligible (DACA) Students

As a DACA student we encourage you to be up to date with laws and issues as much as you can. As the Supreme Court makes its way through decisions on DACA we want to help you find ways to achieve a global education. Remember that study abroad does not have to mean leaving the country. With the U.S. having such diverse populations of peoples and regions you can find an intercultural education in the United States. If your migratory status is effecting you leaving the country, reach out to our office to find ways to make this experience a reality for you!

Why Study Abroad?

Study abroad is a great opportunity for students to gain new perspectives and unique experiences. An international education allows students to develop a deeper understanding of other cultures, increase their foreign language skills, and build maturity and self-confidence. Students can satisfy major requirements or earn elective credit while abroad.

Experience abroad not only enriches a student's undergraduate education, it can also make them more competitive for jobs after graduation. The benefits of international education are numerous, and are just as important for members of groups that are typically underrepresented in study abroad programs.

Finding a Location

While New York State is a sanctuary state, it does not mean other states or counties follow suit. Below are some tools that are resources that can help you make sure a location is safe for you.

  • This map can help you identify what states, counties, and cities are sanctuary and to what degree.
  • FindLaw's Immigration Laws and Resources section covers the various federal laws and regulations governing U.S. immigration; overviews of state laws that impact immigration and legal status; directories of government agencies that handle immigration issues; links to relevant government forms; and more.
  • This climate index can help you indicate the possible overall feeling towards immigrants in a particular state or region.

Useful Tools

There are various ways you can stay up to date as the Supreme Court and the government continues to create and approve policies that impact migratory statuses. Below are some that can be helpful influencing your decision on if study abroad is right for you.

  • The mission of the Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC) is to work with and educate immigrants, community organizations, and the legal sector to continue to build a democratic society that values diversity and the rights of all people. The following is the most up to date on decisions occurring in court and in Congress.

The Student Experience

Blogs & Articles
  • Georgetown student talks about their opportunity to study abroad and the personal gains they received. While DACA provided them with an opportunity to leave the country, they talk about how trying to escape their immigration troubles led to a motivation to fight for their status at home.
  • Alexia was a Marketing student at SFSU. They shared their experience along with important tips and information about how to properly prepare for studying abroad.

Scholarships

Students of all backgrounds and ethnicities cite money as an impediment to studying abroad. Geneseo works to help make traveling abroad an affordable and accessible opportunity for all students through numerous scholarships as well as financial advisement. Visit our Scholarship page to access a list of possible scholarships.