I'm interested in finding schools that are supportive and home to many DACA recipients. Does anyone know which universities have the largest populations of DACA students? I think being part of a community with shared experiences could be important.
This an excellent question as the community does play an important role in the overall college experience. While exact numbers aren't always publicized due to privacy concerns, several universities are recognized for their robust support systems and high populations of DACA students.
The University of California system, for instance, has a long history of support for DACA students and is known to have a considerable population of such students. The UCs even have a dedicated website and resources specifically for undocumented students. As the largest public university system in the country, you'll likely find a higher number of DACA students simply due to the size of the student body.
Another large public university with a significant DACA population is the University of Texas at Austin. UT Austin has a variety of resources available for DACA students and is located in a state with a significant immigrant population.
Beyond these larger institutions, you might also consider smaller liberal arts colleges that are known for their support of DACA students. For example, Pomona College in California has strongly advocated for its DACA students and could provide that community feel you're looking for.
As you research, it's a good idea to look for universities that offer comprehensive resources for DACA students, which could include everything from financial aid assistance to mental health services. Colleges with such resources generally have a more significant population of DACA students and are better equipped to support them.
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