DACA & Maryland Dream Act

This information is provided to help prospective and current undocumented students to be successful at Towson University. It’s also designed to educate members of the TU community about key terms and issues that affect our undocumented and “DACAmented” students.

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DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals)

The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program protects eligible immigrant youth who came to the United States when they were children from deportation. DACA students can temporarily qualify for in-state tuition if they submit the approval notification of their Deferred Action status (I-797, notice of action) to University Admissions prior to the start of the term. Deferred Action status must be held for 12 consecutive months prior to the start of the term to be eligible for in-state tuition rates. If this status is not held for 12 months, students should submit their application receipt to assist with establishing 12 months. For more information, please call 410-704-2113 or email .

Applying for DACA and renewal requirements

View information about how to apply for DACA and DACA renewal from the Department of Homeland Security. You can apply for your DACA renewal 150 to 120 days prior to the expiration date. If you apply for renewal in this time range, you should receive an approval notice and new work permit before your current one expires.

Undocumented Students—Maryland Dream Act

The Maryland Dream Act provides graduates of Maryland high schools who are undocumented immigrants the opportunity to pay in-state tuition rates. Students must meet certain requirements. To review the requirements and apply for Dream Act status, please complete the Dream Application (PDF).  Submit completed application to University Admissions prior to the start of the term. For more information, please call 410-704-2113 or email

Aid for Undocumented Students

The FAFSA is used primarily to apply for federal aid, including federal student loans, state aid, and need-based institutional aid. Undocumented students, including DACA and Dream Act students, are not eligible to receive federal grants or loans or need-based grants from Towson University, but can apply for certain state aid programs. For more information see other aid options for undocumented students.

Resources for Undocumented Students

Local Resources

National Resources

Legal Resources

More Information

If you have additional questions, please contact the Center for Student Diversity,  or University Admissions,