The Graduate School (TGS) at Northwestern University welcomes applications from both undocumented students and students with DACA status. All undocumented individuals are eligible for admission to any degree program at TGS whether or not they have been granted Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival (DACA). Below, we provide information for how undocumented and DACA applicants should proceed through the application process. For more information on how Northwestern supports students, head to the Student Enrichment Services page for DACA and undocumented students.
Applying to The Graduate School
Please complete The Graduate School application on ApplyWeb. Applicants who are undocumented/DACA should select the following options on the second page of the form:
For "Citizenship Status" question: Select “Non-U.S. Citizen”
For "If you are offered admission, select the U.S. visa type you plan to use or obtain" question under the Visa Information section: Select "Other"
For "U.S. Visa type currently held:" Leave blank
No. There are no advantages in the admissions process for undocumented students who have DACA versus those who do not. All undocumented individuals are eligible for admission to any degree program at TGS whether or not they have been granted Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival (DACA).
Funding Eligibility for Undocumented/DACA Students
Undocumented Students
Undocumented students may not receive stipend or tuition from federally funded projects as it is not permitted under federal law.
Undocumented students who do not have DACA status may only receive University dollars if it is not in exchange for service. Undocumented students may not be hired as temporary employees or be paid any salary, including but not limited to additional pay or special pay.
Undocumented students may receive tuition support directly from the University in the form of a University Scholarship, but may not receive any federal financial aid.
Undocumented students are eligible for:
Tuition and Health Insurance Scholarships
Fellowship Stipends (non-service)
Undocumented students are not eligible for:
Federal Loans
Federal Training Grants
Graduate Assistants
Teaching Assistants
Research Assistants
Paid Internships
Other wages (temp pay, add pay, etc.)
Applicants with DACA Status
Applicants with DACA status are eligible for:
Tuition and Health Insurance Scholarships
Graduate Assistants
Teaching Assistants
Research Assistants
Paid Internships
Other wages (temp pay, add pay, etc.)
Applicants with DACA status are not eligible for:
Federal Loans
Federal Training Grants
Though teaching is an educational requirement for students seeking a terminal degree, undocumented students may not be appointed as a teaching/graduate assistant. They may be placed on fellowship funds and still meet the program’s teaching requirement.