DACA Dreamer Scholarship
$2,500 Annual Award
Supporting immigrant students in their pursuit of higher education and the American Dream
Applications for 2025 are now OPEN! Deadline: November 30, 2025
About the DACA Dreamer Scholarship
At Vasquez Law Firm, we understand the unique challenges faced by DACA recipients and undocumented students pursuing higher education. Our annual DACA Dreamer Scholarship provides $2,500 to help cover educational expenses for deserving students who demonstrate academic excellence, community involvement, and a commitment to making a positive impact.
This scholarship is our way of investing in the future leaders of our community and supporting those who, despite facing significant obstacles, continue to pursue their dreams through education.
Eligibility Requirements
Academic Requirements
- ✓Currently enrolled or accepted to an accredited college/university
- ✓Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
- ✓Pursuing undergraduate or graduate degree
Status Requirements
- ✓DACA recipient or DACA-eligible
- ✓First-generation college student (preferred)
- ✓Demonstrated financial need
2025 Essay Topic
"Describe a moment when you turned an obstacle related to your immigration status into an opportunity. How did this experience shape your educational goals and your vision for contributing to your community?"
Essay Requirements:
- • 500-750 words
- • Double-spaced, 12pt font
- • PDF format
- • Include your name and school in the header
Our Scholarship Winners
Jennifer Guzman Millan
Fall 2024 Winner
University of North Carolina
Major: Public Health
Briseyda Ponce
Spring 2023 Winner
North Carolina State University
Major: Social Work
Ahiram Sanchez
Fall 2022 Winner
Duke University
Major: Political Science
Application Process
Complete Form
Fill out the online application with your information
Write Essay
Submit your 500-750 word essay on the topic
Send Transcripts
Upload official or unofficial transcripts
Submit
Review and submit your complete application
Important Dates for 2025
Submit Your Application
Upload your video, resume, and supporting documents
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if I'm undocumented but not DACA?
Yes! While this scholarship is designed for DACA recipients, we also consider applications from undocumented students who meet all other eligibility criteria.
Is this scholarship renewable?
The scholarship is awarded annually. Previous winners are welcome to reapply, but must submit a new application each year.
How will the funds be distributed?
The $2,500 award will be sent directly to your educational institution to be applied to your tuition and fees.
Do I need to be a North Carolina resident?
While we give preference to NC residents, students from all states are eligible to apply.
Supporting DACA Recipients and Dreamers Through Education
The Vasquez Law Firm DACA Dreamer Scholarship was created to support immigrant students who are pursuing higher education despite the legal and financial barriers they face. The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, established by executive action in 2012 and governed by Department of Homeland Security (DHS) memoranda, provides temporary protection from deportation and work authorization for individuals who were brought to the United States as children. While DACA does not provide a path to permanent residency or citizenship under current law, it enables hundreds of thousands of young people to pursue education and contribute to their communities.
DACA recipients face unique challenges in accessing higher education funding. Under federal law, DACA recipients are generally ineligible for federal financial aid programs including Pell Grants and federal student loans. Some states, including North Carolina, have varying policies regarding in-state tuition eligibility for DACA students. The $2,500 annual scholarship from Vasquez Law Firm aims to bridge this gap by providing direct financial support to immigrant students enrolled in accredited colleges, universities, or vocational programs. The award is paid directly to the educational institution and can be applied toward tuition, fees, and educational materials.
Vasquez Law Firm believes in investing in the future of immigrant communities. In addition to this scholarship program, our attorneys provide comprehensive immigration legal services including DACA renewals, advance parole applications, and guidance on potential pathways to permanent status as immigration law continues to evolve. For questions about the scholarship or immigration legal services, call 1-844-967-3536. Se habla español.
Ready to Apply?
Take the first step toward your educational goals. Apply for the DACA Dreamer Scholarship today!
Questions? Email us at scholarship@vasquezlawfirm.com