DACA Frequently Asked Questions
Individuals with DACA permits that expire on or before March 5, 2018, can file for renewals until October 5, 2017. No new renewals will be accepted after this time. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will not accept renewals at this time for applicants whose DACA expires after March 5, 2018.
As a result of the decision made on September 5, should I drop my classes?
No, DACA students should not drop their classes. Students should remain enrolled and continue working towards their degree.
Will my enrollment at UTEP, tuition or financial aid be impacted if the DACA program ends?
No. Your enrollment at UTEP and tuition policies are not based on DACA status and will not be impacted if DACA is repealed. However, you should check with the Scholarship Office located in Mike Loya Academic Services Building, Room 202 if you believe you have been receiving private funding based on your status as a DACA recipient.
As a DACA student can I participate in Study Abroad?
Unfortunately, as a result of the of the decision made on September 5, 2017, DACA students can no longer apply for Advance Parole to travel outside the country. If you have a pending Advance Parole associated with DACA, it is our understanding that it will be closed and your fee refunded. We encourage students to visit with the Office of International Programs and Study Abroad (Union East, Room 203) to discover ways in which you can take part in international education experiences at UTEP .
What rights do I have even if I don’t have documentation?
Regardless of your immigration or citizenship status, you have certain constitutional rights.
Your rights include:
• The right to remain silent.
• The right to refuse to consent to a search of yourself, your car, or your home without a judicial warrant.
• If you are not under arrest, you have the right to leave. You should do so without incident to avoid potentially violating other laws that can be cause for arrest.
• The right to a lawyer if you are arrested. Ask for one immediately.
• For more information see ACLU Know Your Rights
Can immigration officials conduct deportation activities on UTEP’s campus?
Currently the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has a policy of not taking “enforcement actions” at “sensitive locations.” Sensitive locations include colleges and universities. For more information, see: Sensitive Location FAQs. Enforcement actions covered by this policy include arrests, interviews, searches, and surveillance.
What can I do if I come in contact with ICE?
The U.S. Constitution guarantees rights to all people in the U.S., regardless of citizenship status, which includes the right to be free from unlawful searches and seizures. In practical terms, that means that during a police or immigration officer encounter:
• You have the right to remain silent.
• Stay calm and be polite. Do not lie about your citizenship status or provide fake documents.
• You do not have to sign anything. If you sign, you may be giving up your opportunity to stay in the U.S.
• If immigration comes to your home, you do not have to open your door unless an officer has certain kinds of warrants. Ask the officer to slip the warrant under the door or hold it up to a window so you can inspect it.
• If you are taken into immigration custody, you have the right to a lawyer. However, please note that the government does not have to provide one for you.
• Additionally, if you are in immigration custody, you have the right to contact your consulate.
How has UTEP responded to the DACA program being rescinded?
In addition to the statement issued by Dr. Diana Natalicio (PDF) UTEP is providing resources and support for students, staff and faculty who have questions or concerns related to DACA including but not limited to:
- a website with information to answer frequently asked questions,
- a DACA Response Team chaired by the Dean of Students which includes an Academic Advisor, the Executive Director of International Programs and Study Abroad, a University Counselor, the Director of Admissions and Recruitment and a member of the Provost's Office.