Support Resources for Undocumented Students

Recursos de Apoyo para Estudiantes Indocumentados

Navigating college as an undocumented student can come with unique challenges, but a range of resources and support networks are available to help. This page provides links to advocacy organizations, legal assistance, campus resources, and mental health support to empower undocumented students at Marymount. Whether you’re looking for guidance on immigration policies, legal rights, or wellness support, these resources ensure you have access to the information and assistance you need to thrive.


Advocacy Organizations

These organizations provide legal, social, and advocacy support for undocumented individuals from diverse backgrounds

Alianza Americas

A transnational network that advocates for Latin American immigrants in the U.S., focusing on human rights, migration policy, and economic justice. Alianza Americas supports immigrant leadership, offers legal and health resources, and engages in policy advocacy.

Asian Americans Advancing Justice (AAJC)

AAJC fights for civil rights and social justice for Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities, including undocumented individuals. They provide legal aid, policy advocacy, and education on immigration reform, language access, and racial equity.

Haitian Bridge Alliance (HBA)

HBA provides advocacy, humanitarian aid, and legal services for Haitian and other Black immigrants, including asylum seekers and undocumented individuals. They focus on immigration rights, anti-deportation efforts, and culturally specific mental health support.

Immigrant Justice Network (IJN)

The Immigrant Justice Network is a national coalition advocating for immigrant rights, particularly those impacted by the criminal legal system. IJN fights for policies that end the criminalization of immigrants and push for decarceration, deportation defense, and legal reforms that protect immigrant communities. The network collaborates with legal experts, activists, and directly impacted individuals to challenge unjust immigration laws.

UndocuBlack Network

A national organization that advocates for undocumented Black immigrants by providing mental health support, legal resources, and community empowerment initiatives. The network offers policy updates, leadership development, and wellness resources tailored to the unique experiences of Black undocumented individuals.


Campus Resources for Students

These on-campus resources provide support, advocacy, and services tailored to undocumented students at Marymount University.

Division for Access, Belonging, and Culture

The Division of Access, Belonging and Culture serves as a resource center for undocumented students, providing advocacy, programming, and support to foster a sense of belonging. The Hub also helps students connect with legal, financial, and academic resources.

International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS)

Supports international students and scholars at Marymount by providing visa and immigration guidance, cultural adjustment support, and resources to help navigate life in the U.S. ISSS also assists with work authorizations, travel advisories, and compliance with immigration regulations.

Saints Unafraid (Student Organization)

A student-led organization dedicated to supporting and empowering undocumented students and allies. Saints Unafraid creates a safe space for students to share their experiences, access information, and advocate for policies that benefit immigrant communities.

Student Counseling Services

Provides free and confidential mental health counseling for all students, including undocumented students, addressing concerns such as stress, anxiety, depression, and identity-related challenges.

Student Health Services

Offers general medical services, vaccinations, and health education. While undocumented students may face limitations with health insurance, the clinic provides resources for affordable care options.


Legal Resources

These organizations offer legal guidance, advocacy, and representation for undocumented individuals navigating immigration challenges.

ACLU-Virginia: Know Your Rights

Provides educational resources on the rights of undocumented individuals, including what to do in encounters with ICE or law enforcement.

Amica Center for Immigrant Rights

Offers free legal aid, education, and advocacy to undocumented individuals, focusing on deportation defense, asylum, and legal pathways to residency.

Ayuda

Provides immigration legal services, social assistance, and language access programs for low-income immigrants in the DMV area.

Central American Resource Center (CARECEN-DC)

Supports Central American immigrants and other Latinx communities with legal representation for DACA renewals, asylum applications, and family petitions.

Legal Aid Justice Center

Offers pro bono legal assistance for undocumented individuals in Virginia, including deportation defense and advocacy for immigrant rights.

National Immigration Legal Services Directory

A searchable database of nonprofit organizations across the U.S. offering free or low-cost immigration legal services.

How to Find an Immigration Lawyer (Informed Immigrant, Updated 2024)

A guide to finding qualified immigration lawyers, preparing for legal consultations, and avoiding fraud.

Beyond DACA: Immigration Options Every Undocumented Person Should Know (Immigrants Rising, Updated September 2024)

An updated guide detailing immigration options beyond DACA, including pathways to residency, work permits, and asylum.

 


Mental Health and Wellness

These resources offer support for undocumented students navigating mental health challenges, trauma, and stress.

Immigrants Rising Support Groups

Virtual and in-person support groups designed for undocumented individuals, providing a safe space for sharing experiences and coping strategies.

Open Path Collective

A national nonprofit providing low-cost mental health counseling to undocumented individuals and others without access to affordable care.

UndocuHealth

A mental health initiative focusing on the well-being of undocumented individuals, offering online workshops, resources, and coping strategies.

Virginia Association of Free and Charitable Clinics

A network of clinics providing free or low-cost mental health care for uninsured individuals, including undocumented students.

 


National Legislation Updates and Resources

Stay informed on the latest immigration policies and legislative changes affecting undocumented students.

Immigrant Legal Resource Center

Tracks immigration policies, and provides legal education and resources for advocates and undocumented individuals.

National Immigration Law Center

Advocates for immigrant rights through legal support, policy analysis, and education on immigration laws.

United We Dream

The largest immigrant youth-led organization in the U.S., providing activism, policy updates, and support for undocumented individuals.

 


Resources for Faculty and Staff

Guides and organizations supporting faculty and staff in working with and advocating for undocumented students.

Guidance for Higher Education on Immigrant Student Privacy & FERPA

Provides guidelines for universities on protecting undocumented students’ privacy and rights under FERPA regulations.

Higher Ed Immigration Portal

A national resource offering data, policy updates, scholarships, and best practices to support undocumented and immigrant students in higher education. It also provides tools for faculty and administrators to advocate for inclusive policies.

The Presidents’ Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration

A coalition of college and university leaders advocating for policies that support undocumented students in higher education.

Undocumented Immigrants and Allies Knowledge Community (NASPA)

A professional network within NASPA that provides research, training, and best practices for supporting undocumented students in higher education.