Education Abroad encourages all students, including those who are undocumented or part of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, to participate in transformational, cross-cultural experiences. In addition to our international programs, there are also a variety of high-impact virtual and domestic opportunities available.
DACA students with advance parole or other travel authorization document may be eligible to travel internationally. Those without travel authorization or undocumented students can still participate in transformational experiences as there are several great opportunities to globally engage within the U.S (United States). states & territories (i.e., Hawaii, Alaska, Puerto Rico) or virtually.
Important: Texas A&M Education Abroad cannot guarantee re-entry back into the United States, even though students are participating in an approved A&M education abroad program.
DACA students with advance parole or other travel authorization document may be eligible to travel internationally. Those without travel authorization or undocumented students can still participate in transformational experiences as there are several great opportunities to globally engage within the U.S (United States). states & territories (i.e., Hawaii, Alaska, Puerto Rico) or virtually.
Verify your travel status.
DACA or undocumented students must receive advance parole or travel authorization to travel abroad. Information on the available travel documents and how to apply is available on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services’ (USCIS) website: https://www.uscis.gov/green-card/green-card-processes-and-procedures/travel-documentsPrepare well in-advance.
If you are eligible for these travel authorization documents, you must apply well before departure. According to USCIS, this process can take five months or longer, and approval is not guaranteed.Consider the risks carefully.
You are strongly encouraged to work with an immigration attorney to weigh the personal and financial risks of international travel prior to applying for a program.Look into alternative programs.
If you are unable or decide not to travel abroad, you can still gain valuable international and intercultural experiences! Several of our affiliate providers offer virtual study or internship abroad programs that are taught by international faculty. Additionally, there are study away programs offered in Hawaii, Puerto Rico, or other domestic destinations where a passport is not required. These programs still provide unique cultural immersion opportunities.Important: Texas A&M Education Abroad cannot guarantee re-entry back into the United States, even though students are participating in an approved A&M education abroad program.
Web Resources
- Texas A&M Education Abroad
- Virtual Programs: Find programs that allow you to engage globally without leaving home!
- National Student Exchange (NSE): exchange program offering students the opportunity to spend a semester at a partnering university in the U.S., Guam, Puerto Rico, or Virgin Islands
- Department of Homeland Security
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
- My Undocumented Life
Texas A&M International Student & Scholar Services
Information and resources for TAMU students who are undocumented or DACA
Texas A&M Counseling and Psychological Services:
Mental Health resources specifically geared towards those who are undocumented/DACAmented and/or allies.
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
Documents and resources for non-U.S. Citizens travelling abroad. Work with an immigration attorney to ensure you choose the correct document and to assist with the process.