Funding
For first-generation and undocumented students (aka DREAMers and TPS holders), finding funding for graduate school can seem like a daunting or practically impossible proposition--but it doesn’t have to be. Read on to see what kinds of resources are available especially for you here at UCSB and nationally!
For first-generation and undocumented students (aka DREAMers and TPS holders), finding funding for graduate school can seem like a daunting or practically impossible proposition--but it doesn't have to be. Read on to see what kinds of resources are available especially for you here at UCSB and nationally!
UCSB Undocumented Student Services--Your Home at UCSB
Undocumented Student Services (USS) is committed to fostering a safe, nurturing, and supportive environment for prospective and current undocumented students, students with mixed-immigration status families, and students from refugee backgrounds. USS provides a wide range of resources, including a supportive community, a lending library, access to exclusive meeting spaces on campus, career counseling, and legal support.
USS also awards a few scholarships to current UCSB graduate students each year and keeps a scholarship directory. Graduate students may be interested in the Dream Scholar Fund Scholarship, the A. S. Community Financial Fund Grant Program, and the La Unidad Latina Foundation (LULF) Fall Scholarship.
External Resources
The Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI) offers a number of scholarships for graduate students in different fields.
TheDream.US is the nation's largest college access and success program for DREAMers. They also have some informational resources available to graduate students.
The Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund (MALDEF) keeps an up-to-date scholarship resource guide.
My Undocumented Life is one of the largest online platforms serving undocumented community members across the country since 2011. They have a whole section of their website dedicated to graduate student resources, including general funding opportunities for grad school and applications with upcoming deadlines.
Immigrants Rising is an online platform that seeks to transform individuals and fuel broader changes. With resources and support, undocumented young people are able to get an education, pursue careers, and build a brighter future for themselves and their community. Check out their lists of graduate scholarships and fellowships!