CSUN

Update on DACA: July 25, 2018

As the fall semester approaches I have some important updates regarding the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) federal immigration policy.

As you might be aware from my previous messages and various news sources, there is significant uncertainty regarding immigration policy and the potential impact changes may have on CSUN students.  In particular, there are currently multiple court cases in process, the results of which could affect DACA as early as August.

I, along with national experts monitoring these policies, urge individuals with DACA status to renew your DACA status now.

If your DACA status is expiring within one year, you should renew now. Advocates and lawyers have noted that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is not rejecting applications for renewals that are far into the future, including more than 180 days in advance. Unfortunately, new applications are not being accepted at this time. I understand that there are concerns about risks if one renews, but advocates advise that being in an unlawful presence status, has much higher risks, including the risk of deportation.

You can find helpful information about DACA renewal at the following two web sites:

CSUN and the CSU system offer additional student resources regarding immigration policy at the following web sites:

Let me also draw your attention to the Mission Asset Fund (MAF), which is a private organization that provides zero-interest loans for U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services fees, including DACA renewal application fees.  Additionally, the CSUN Financial Aid Office will be providing information about MataCare Emergency Grant applications directly to students who filed a CA Dream Application and attended CSUN for 2017-18.

CSUN and the CSU continue to support the DACA program and endorse the California Attorney General's lawsuit supporting DACA. We are hopeful a positive resolution to this issue can be reached by federal legislation. In the meantime, affected students should follow the guidance provided above and be assured that CSUN will continue to monitor the situation and keep the campus community apprised as developments arise.

Regardless of what happens with the federal cases, here in California we have AB 540/AB 2000/SB 68, which provide access to higher education by way of an exemption to non-resident tuition for any student who is eligible. Additionally, the California Dream Act provides access to state-funded financial aid programs.

I also want to reiterate that we do not undertake efforts with federal immigration enforcement authorities to investigate, detain or arrest individuals for violations of federal immigration law. Please remember, any and all inquiries from federal, state or local officials received on campus regarding immigration status should be immediately referred to CSUN's Department of Police Services (DPS) at (818) 677-2111. DPS will act as a liaison with the on-site officials and will coordinate with the CSU Office of General Counsel to provide guidance, references and resources as available. Please review the document FAQs for California State University Employees about Federal Immigration Enforcement Actions on University Property for further guidance.

CSUN is committed to educating, supporting and protecting all students regardless of immigration status, and strives to ensure our campus is a safe and welcoming environment.

Dianne F. Harrison, Ph.D.
President
California State University, Northridge