Campus Resources

Picture of Student with a shirt that says I am an Immigrant.

As an undocumented or DACA applicant, you’re eligible for the same enrollment processes as US Citizens, permanent residents and eligible non-citizens. Hostos is among the most diverse college campuses in the state, with a long history of civic engagement and programs that promote social economic mobility. We’re also committed to removing barriers to college access with a number of city, state, and private financial aid resources available. 


Access to Higher Education: There's a lot to consider when applying to college as an undocumented or DACA student. The good news is that no federal law requires applicants to disclose proof of citizenship to gain admission into a U.S. college. Undocumented and DACA applicants follow the same application procedures as other domestic applicants. All information provided on the application is confidential and only reviewed by the Office of Admissions. Students do not need to submit a Social Security Number to complete the their Admissions application. For more information contact the Admissions office at admissions@hostos.cuny.edu

Financial Resources: Undocumented or out-of-status students are eligible for in-state tuition based on their attendance and graduation from a New York State high school or a GED/TASC in New York State. Click here for more FAQs on financial aid.

  • Financial Aid Office is determined to provide services for those who face significant financial difficulty during their career at Hostos. For assistance with your aid email finaid@hostos.cuny.edu.
  • Petrie Fund provides assistance to students with short-term financial emergencies to enable them to persist and complete college.
  • Scholarship Office: We have scholarships dedicated to supporting undocumented and DACA students. For more information on how to apply contact Ms. Marina Esquilin at 718.518.4166 or by email scholarships@hostos.cuny.edu
    • José Peralta New York State Dream Act allows undocumented and other students access to New York State‐administered grants and scholarships. If you attended or graduated from an NYS high school, attended an approved NYS high school equivalency program, or received an NYS equivalency diploma, you may be eligible for state financial aid including the Excelsior Scholarship, the Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) and other state‐administered scholarships. https://www.hesc.ny.gov/dream/
    • TheDream.US Scholarship: up to $33,000 are available for undocumented CUNY students seeking two or four-year degrees. You may be eligible to apply if you intend to enroll at CUNY; and are a first-time college student or community college graduate who is an immigrant and has applied for or received DACA or TPS or if you arrived in the U.S. before Nov. 1, 2016 and otherwise meet the DACA eligibility criteria. 
  • Below are some of the scholarships that are highlighted because they are popular with undocumented CUNY students
    • Chicano Organizing & Research in Education: Founded with the intent to help undocumented students continue on their academic path. 
    • TheDream.US: Scholarships for highly motivated DREAMers who are unable to afford college tuition.
    • Immigrant Rising's List: Contains scholarships for undergraduate and graduate studies that don’t require proof of citizenship or legal permanent residency.
    • MALDEF's Scholarship List: Informative resource guide for students, parents, and educators with an extensive list of scholarships, including many that do not inquire about immigration status.
    • New York Immigration Coalition Opportunity and Justice for All: Engages a cohort of undocumented and DACA students from CUNY in trainings and leadership and personal development and immigration organizing.
    • Soros Fellowship for New Americans: The Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans program honors the contributions of immigrants and children of immigrants to the United States and provides education tuition.
  • CUNY Memo: Scholarships and Other Payments from Private Funds to Students without Lawful Status in the United States – Updated and Revised Guidance
    • As per the CUNY General Counsel Memo, undocumented students are also eligible for private scholarships!
 Student Resources:
  • Student Services can help with connections to campus and financial resources, and support for your immediate needs.
  • Caiman Direct centralized support services are offered to students navigating the many facets of campus life while providing the tools necessary to continue and complete their educational journey.
  • Hostos Academic Learning Center learning environment that allows students to receive the academic help they need in a setting that is rich in resources and support academic success 
  • Food Insecurities  provides Caiman students with healthy food options and personal hygiene items.

Mental Health Reources:

  • ​Counseling Center offers peer listening hours and individual appointments to help you navigate ongoing challenges and mental health concerns.
  • Health and Wellness provides quality programs utilizing a holistic approach that focuses on healthy lifestyle choices as a means of disease prevention. 

Advisement Resources:Undocumented students may also qualify for College Discovery as well as ASAP. Both programs provide academic and financial support to assist students in completing their degree. 


Campus Liaisons: We have designated staff to help you on campus. Immigration Success Liaisons can help you with questions about financial aid, enrollment, and other matters specific to your academic journey at Hostos.

Marsha Milan-Bethel
Student Services Specialist
mmilanbethel@hostos.cuny.edu

Fabian Wander
Director, Health and Wellness Center/Domestic Violence Program
fwander@hostos.cuny.edu

Marina Esquilin
Scholarship Coordinator
TheDream.US Liaison
mesquilin@hostos.cuny.edu 

Jason Libfeld
Student Leadership Coordinator
TheDream.US Liaison
jlibfeld@hostos.cuny.edu