DACA Graduate Student Support

First-Gen+ Center:

Serving the first-generation community at Mason, including students who are first-gen and undocumented, have refugee status, and those who have families with limited income. For more information and questions, please check out their website. 

Students who are not eligible for in-state tuition by having established domicile in Virginia may qualify through the Tuition Equity Provision for High School Completers.

To qualify you must:

1. Have attended high school (public or private high school, or program of home instruction) for at least two years in the Commonwealth of Virginia
2. Graduated on or after July 1, 2008 (or passed on or after July 1, 2008, a high school equivalency examination approved by the Secretary of Education) in the Commonwealth of Virginia;
3. Submit evidence that you, or, in the case of a dependent student, at least one parent, guardian, or person standing in loco parentis has filed, unless exempted by state law, Virginia income tax returns for at least two years prior to the date of registration or enrollment; and
4. Register as an entering student or enrolled in a public institution of higher education in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
5. All students who meet the criteria are eligible for in-state tuition regardless of citizenship or immigration status (with the exception of F, H3, J, or M visas).  This provision also applies to U.S. Citizens.

How to Apply

1. If you are a prospective student complete the Application for Virginia In-State Tuition Rates when applying to Mason.  See the Admissions website for more information.
2. I you have already indicated your intent to enroll and been classified as out-of-state complete the Request for Tuition Reclassification Form.  See Domicile Appealsfor more information on how to appeal.
3. Make sure to answer questions regarding high school attendance.

Undocu Grad School Guide: 

The New York State Youth Leadership Council (NYSYLC) launched their new “UndocuGrad School Guide: Undocu-friendly guide to pursuing, financing, and navigating graduate school“!

The guide is broken into four chapters, which cover information on preparing for grad school (including funding opportunities), the experience of attending grad school, using your graduate degree, as well as helpful tips and considerations. Throughout the guide, you will also find inspiring stories and advice from fellow undocumented students who have pursued their graduate degrees in various institutions across the country. The guide also features very helpful timelines and templates that you can use to inquire about financial aid, letters of recommendation, networking opportunities, and more.

Here’s a short excerpt from the guide:

“Navigating and succeeding in law school is no easy task, especially for an undocumented student. Don’t be afraid to rely on others. Erika Castaneda says, “Find support systems. People you can rely on to support you through the process because the process can be daunting and frustrating. I know sometimes we’re afraid to speak out and ask for help, but I definitely think it takes a village to get here and continue on with your education, so find that village and don’t be afraid to ask for help.”

We definitely encourage folks to download and share NYSYLC’s guide: “UndocuGrad School Guide: Undocu-friendly guide to pursuing, financing, and navigating graduate school” This guide is especially helpful for those considering applying to grad school or getting ready to apply.