Immigration Justice & Resources for Undocumented Students Welcome to William Paterson's resource page for undocumented students! Undocumented students of all ethnicities and nationalities can find a safe environment and supportive community at William Paterson University. We understand that there are particular challenges experienced by undocumented students as they navigate policies, processes, and academic requirements. This site provides information to help students reach their full potential and achieve their goals for college success. If you currently have DACA approval or a pending DACA application, please speak to a licensed, experienced immigration attorney or recognized/accredited organization or representative before making any plans pertaining to work, travel, or applying for a DACA renewal. Among many options, CUNY CLEAR is an excellent resource for free legal services and guidance. Financial Aid Information Apply for NJ State Aid before the semester you enroll. The New Jersey Alternative Financial Aid Application allows undocumented students enrolled in eligible New Jersey colleges and universities to apply for state financial aid. Complete this application if you are not a United States citizen or eligible noncitizen and meet all State of New Jersey Eligibility Criteria: Complete the New Jersey Alternative Financial Aid Application Please be aware that the online application will not save an incomplete application. Please call customer service at (609) 584-4480 with any concerns. Important: If a pop-up appears on your application screen requesting to track your physical location, select “Options for this site” and then choose “Always deny and don’t tell me” and continue with your application. Apply for State Aid through WP's Financial Aid Office. The Financial Aid Office is located in Morrison Hall. Qualifications to Apply for State Aid: Attended a New Jersey high school for at least three (3) years Graduated from a New Jersey high school or received the equivalent of a high school diploma in New Jersey File an AFFIDAVIT with WPUNJ stating you have filed an application to legalize your immigration status or will file an application as soon as you are eligible to do so. On-Campus Resources for Undocumented Students These are on-campus resources available for WPUNJ students. Pioneer Food Pantry. The Pioneer Food Pantry is located in University Commons Room 135A (the glass door right next to the Lot 5 Bus Stop). The Pioneer Pantry is a resource for students who are experiencing food insecurity. The pantry is available on a walk-in only basis, meaning students must come in-person to choose and receive items. Upon each visit, students will be asked to fill out either an online or paper sign-in form. Students may only visit the pantry once per week, and may select a limited amount of items based on their immediate need. Counseling, Health & Wellness Center. The University’s Counseling, Health, and Wellness Center can provide free counseling services for students who experience emotional and mental distress related to immigration issues. The Counseling, Health, & Wellness Center is located in Overlook South, 1st Floor (Between Matelson Hall and White Hall). Student Rights Coalition. The Student Rights Coalition provides a safe space and support for undocumented students and meets periodically during the semester. While faculty and professors cannot provide legal advice or psychological counseling, they can provide information about available services or resources. Please contact Dr. Wendy Christensen (christensenw@wpunj.edu), Associate Professor in the Department of Sociology, Criminal Justice, and Social Work for additional information. General Resources for Undocumented Students These are general resources available for WPUNJ students within the United States to seek out and for faculty and staff to refer students to in the WPUNJ community. Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU)Resources for DACA studentsHispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU)Resources for Faculty and Staff to aid undocumented students United We Dream (UWD)The Largest Immigrant Youth Led Network TheDream.USA resource library with a list of links, toolkits, guides, references and other information pertinent to Dreamers.
