I am an undocumented student looking to apply to SCSU, how does the application process work for me?
SCSU accepts students regardless of their citizenship/immigration status. There are certain requirements that need to be met in order to qualify for in-state tuition. You should also be aware that admission to certain majors (i.e. teacher education programs, nursing) requires a background check (that include finger printing) and certification exams (that ask for a social security number). Further, some majors may require fieldwork or internships experiences that may require background checks.
It is typically not advised that undocumented students select majors that require these types of processes; thus, undocumented students must keep this in mind as they select a major. Please consult with the staff and faculty advisors identified on this website for assistance in selecting your major. Currently, DACA students are able to complete the processes (background check, certification exams) needed to pursue any of these majors.
Am I eligible for financial aid at SCSU?
Yes, institutional financial aid is awarded on the basis of financial need and fund availability. The financial aid application is available online.
Students are encouraged to meet with our Financial Literacy and Advising Office, and to review our scholarship resources, some of which do not have citizenship/immigration status restrictions. Additionally, students are encouraged to apply for the SCSU Foundation Scholarships, some of which are reserved exclusively for undocumented students.
Is SCSU a “sanctuary campus”?
The CSCU system has deliberately refrained from using the term “sanctuary” as sanctuary is a concept that has a broad range of meaning. CSCU does not have the power or ability to declare any “sanctuary” that is exempt from federal or state law. It is not our intention to provide anyone with a false sense of security. Connecticut State Colleges and Universities, however, is considered to be a “sensitive location” as described in the 2011 U.S. Immigration and Customs (ICE) policy. As a sensitive location, the grounds of our campuses should not be the focus of enforcement actions, however, as public spaces are open to the general public, CSCU does not have the authority to bar federal enforcement officers from CSCU public space.
Will SCSU release my information to immigration authorities?
Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) all students are entitled to privacy regardless of immigration status. Education records, which are broadly defined as records related to a student and maintained by the institution, cannot generally be disclosed without a judicial warrant, subpoena, court order or student consent. CSCU institutions shall continue to uphold FERPA and deny requests for student information that are not accompanied with a judicial warrant, court ordered subpoena, or student consent.
It is important to note that FERPA designates certain information contained in a student's record as “directory information”. FERPA grants the University the right to disclose “directory information” to anyone, without consent from the student. If you would like to withhold your directory information please fill out the Withhold Directory Information Form.
What is the protocol for campus police and security personnel interacting with undocumented students?
1. Police officers and security personnel will not inquire about a person’s immigration status nor shall they inquire about the immigration status of crime victims, witnesses or others who approach the police officers and security personnel seeking assistance.
2. No person will be detained solely on the basis of immigration status or on the belief that the person is in the United States illegally.
3. Information regarding a person’s immigration status contained within the records of CSCU Special Police Forces or Security personnel will be disclosed only as compelled by law.
4. CSCU Police will not make arrests based upon administrative warrants issued by ICE or other federal agencies for arrest or removal of an individual including administrative immigration warrants and deportation orders.
Are there mental health or counseling services available?
SCSU’s Counseling Services provides emotional support via individual appointments with licensed counselors, social workers, and psychologists. Students may access individual services by presenting at our walk-in hours, every day between 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. in Engleman B219. Students may also make an appointment at another time by contacting our office at (203) 392-5475. You may also contact Dr. Randolph Brooks at brooksr9@southernct.edu or (203) 392-7267.
Who can I contact if I have questions or need advice?
If you have specific questions or would like to discuss your situation in a confidential environment please contact one of the school’s designated support team members.
You can also find information about organizations that support immigrant and undocumented students on our website.