UC stands with its undocumented students
We believe all students have the right to live and study in a safe and welcoming environment. To that end, the university has adopted principles to vigorously protect the privacy and civil rights of undocumented members of our community. These measures are aimed at maintaining strict confidentiality about our community members’ status and safeguarding our students’ ability to pursue their education free from intimidation and fear.
Who are UC’s undocumented students?
The vast majority of UC’s undocumented students have lived in California for most of their lives. They go on to make our society stronger: as leaders and role models in their communities, as educators, health care providers, entrepreneurs and more.
“First and foremost, I want to be a compassionate physician who has a relationship with his patients and really listens, and from there a doctor who is resourceful and persistent and won’t stop advocating to get them what they need.”
Jirayut “New” Latthivongskorn
UCSF M.D., ‘19, UC Berkeley, ‘12
Founder, Pre-health Dreamers
Forbes 30-under-30
“I want to make education better and more accessible for everyone. We just want to be free to give back in the country we know as home.”
Adriana Lopez Torres
UC Davis
Student support
We are committed to the success of our undocumented students, and offer an array of resources to help these students thrive socially and academically during their time at UC.
Financial aid
The Dream Loan program provides aid to students who are not eligible for federal loan programs but who live in California and are eligible for in-state tuition under AB540.
Student services
Undocumented student centers on every campus offer specialized financial, academic and emotional support, as well as events and social opportunities.
Legal advising
Students on every campus are able to receive free undocumented legal services, including access to an attorney, consultation on legal rights and protections and assistance filing for applicable state and federal programs.
Access support at UC Berkeley and all other campuses
Income generation options
There are many ways to earn a living through entrepreneurship regardless of your immigration status. This toolkit provides information about independent contracting and business start-ups, as well as profiles of immigrant entrepreneurs to see real life examples of what people are doing.
Know your rights
If you are concerned about facing immigration enforcement officers, you should prepare now. Do not wait until an encounter to think about how you will respond. The information here provides a starting point for your planning.
“Know Your Rights” updated text document (updated 12/13/2024) (PDF)