All Services:
The UCI DREAM Center strives to serve the needs of undocumented students with a holistic approach. We recognize that our students have a unique set of experiences, challenges, and responsibilities as first-generation, low-income, and undocumented. Our services help students manage the academic demands of UC Irvine, gain professional experience, and pursue personal development.
1 on 1 Support from our Professional Staff
Our 1-on-1 professional staff support offers you tailored guidance and assistance from our Professional Staff in a virtual setting.
Schedule an appointment to receive individualized attention and get the answers you need. Whether you’re seeking academic advice, career counseling, or any other form of support, our dedicated staff is here to help you navigate your path to success.
DREAM Project Fellowship
A year-long fellowship geared for undocumented students to prepare them to acquire professional development and personal growth.
Eligibility:
- Open to DACA students, students without work authorization, and students from mixed-status families
- UCI enrolled undergraduate students (incoming undergraduate students are welcome to apply)
- Must have filed FAFSA or CA Dream Application for 2025-26
- Must meet Office of Financial Aid and Scholarship eligibility to receive financial aid or scholarships from UCI (undergraduate)
- Preferences will be given to students who are actively involved with the DREAM Center
For more information, visit:
Bridging the Gap – Financial Support
Financial aid is available for undocumented students. At the DREAM Center, we can assist you with DREAM Act applications, AB 540 forms, and navigating the financial aid process.
To view scholarships offered at the DREAM Center, visit:
Housing Resources
If you are struggling financially and cannot afford your housing unit, book a virtual appointment with a DREAM Center professional staff member to discuss your options.
Additionally, we have two themed houses in Arroyo Vista available specifically for undocumented students. Applications open in winter and spring.
Please email Luis Fuentes, our house sponsor at (lfuente1@uci.edu) to learn more.
Dream Scholars Program
Dream Scholars is a collaborative program between the Student Success Initiatives and the DREAM Center that uses cohort-model to support student academic well-being, community building, and identity development.
Benefits:
- Peer mentoring program for incoming freshmen and transfers
- One-on-one personalized coaching sessions
- FREE: Books, i-Clickers and laptop loans
- Tutoring Scholarships
- Quarterly workshops and socials
- Resource referrals to key campus partners
For more information visit:
Scholars in Residence
Our Scholars-in-Residence (SIR) graduate mentors support first-generation undergraduate students affected by immigration policies by helping them navigate their academic journey and explore post-graduate education/career opportunities.
They offer mentorship with graduate school applications, research, and much more!
For more information and to book an appointment, visit:
Incoming Student Checklist
Our Incoming Student Resource Checklist is your comprehensive guide to ensuring you have all the tools and information you need to thrive from day one.
This checklist is carefully curated to cover every aspect of your transition, from academic essentials to campus life.
Check out our Incoming Anteaters Checklist here:
Social Support
Looking to get involved? Want to make new friends?
See below for ways you can unleash your creativity and foster meaningful connections with other students who share your passions!
UndocuArt Collective
The UndocuArt Collective is a space for undocumented students to enhance creative expression. The UndocuArt Collective events are announced on our social media pages and are all full of good vibes, music, art, and more!
All skill levels are welcome!
Stay updated with our latest events, workshops, and resources by following us on Facebook and Instagram: @ucidreamcenter
For more information visit:
SAFIRE – Students Advocating for Immigrant Rights and Equity
SAFIRE seeks to provide resources and support that promote a safe environment for Undocumented/DACA/Non-DACA/AB 540 students. With the collaboration of Allies, Faculty, family, and students, our vision is to raise awareness regarding the issues the Undocumented community faces, as well as diversifying the image of the Undocumented student identity.
For more information, please contact uci.safire@gmail.com
Our Liaisons & Campus Resources
We have maintained strong relationships with professional UCI staff and faculty, many of who have the expertise and experience to assist undocumented students.
See our Liaisons below:
Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships Liaisons
Carina Trujillo
- Financial Aid Counselor, Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships (OFAS)
- Contact: carint1@uci.edu
Venecia Flores
- Financial Aid Counselor, Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships (OFAS)
- Contact: ivflores@uci.edu
Student Success Initiatives Dream Scholars Liaison
Jordi Conde Mendez
- Dream Scholars Program Counselor, Student Success Initiatives
- Contact: jcondeme@uci.edu
Counseling Center Liaison
Dr. Shaozhuan Li
- Senior Counseling Psychologist, Counseling Center
- Contact: shaozhul@uci.edu
See other Campus Resources below:
UC Immigrant Legal Services Center
The UC Immigrant Legal Services Center provides free immigration-related legal services to students, as well as their immediate family members (spouse, siblings, children, and parents).
For more information visit:
**The UCI DREAM Center does not maintain or manage the information submitted to UC Immigrant Legal Services Center.**
UCI Basic Needs Center
The UCI Basic Needs Center is a student-initiated center that promotes equitable access to basic needs. Their services are open to all undergraduate and graduate UCI students.
The Basic Needs Center offers emergency food and toiletries, CalFresh application assistance, connects students to critical on and off-campus resources, and provides educational opportunities for students.
For more information or to learn more about their resources, visit: