With DACA’s Uncertain Future, How will States Address Access to Higher Education?

DACA can increase accessibility to higher education for undocumented students. At the most basic level, deferred action may encourage students to apply for college in the first place without fear of deportation. Further, work permits available through the program may enable them to get a higher-paying job, which in turn could help them finance higher education more easily. This benefit is particularly important since many DACA-eligible individuals are from low-income families, and undocumented individuals do not have access to federal financial aid. In this context, this report indicates characteristics of the affected population's profile, and actions that should be taken.