Undocumented Students

Undocumented students are individuals who are not U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, or “eligible noncitizens.” Each year, we review applications from students living in the United States without documentation of U.S. citizenship or legal permanent residency. Within the broader category of undocumented students, there is a subgroup of individuals who have been granted Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA).

In July 2023, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts passed the “High School Completers” Tuition Equity Law, expanding access to in-state tuition rates and state financial aid for students who have attended high school in Massachusetts for at least three years, earned a high school diploma or its equivalent in the state, and met certain documentation requirements. This law provides a pathway for non-U.S. citizen students, including those without lawful immigration status or who may be considered undocumented, to access in-state tuition and state financial aid.

Are you eligible for in-state residency? You may qualify if:

• You are an undocumented and not a U.S. citizen. This includes individuals with official DACA authorization. Please note that students with certain non-immigrant visa classifications are NOT eligible for in-state consideration under the law.
• You attended a Massachusetts high school for at least three years.
• You will or have graduated from a Massachusetts high school, or earned the equivalent such as a GED or HiSET in Massachusetts.

How do you know if you qualify?

• Apply to UMass Amherst and indicate that you are a non-citizen who believes you are eligible for in-state residency.
• You will then receive an automated email from Undergraduate Admissions with further instructions on how to proceed with the initial residency review.
• Already a student at UMass Amherst? Please contact the Office of the Bursar for more information.