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Overview Program Details Checkout our 2023 PEEP Innovation Challenge Projects Over the last couple of months, our student's worked hard to tackle some of the most challenging issues within the immigrant and health care systems. View our three favorite winning projects from the top submissions. 1/7 Problem Pitching Jan - Feb During the dates of January 25th - February 15th, teams will meet at least once to discuss possible problems that they would want their group to tackle. Problems can stem from any three branches: 1) educational challenges for immigrant youth, 2) healthcare discrepancies for immigrant communities, 3) any other immigrant issues you faced as an undocumented student. Inspiration for problem can stem from personal experiences faced as an undocumented student. Brainstorming Feb - March Teams will enter the "Brainstorming" phase after a problem has been identified that has to be resolved. During this time, teams will gather to create and construct solutions. In order to create and construct solutions, may use pre-existing models presented by academic literature and provide their own twist. Poster Exhibition July 13th Los Angeles, California Teams will be presenting their projects via their posters at the annual conference for PhDreamers held this year in-person at Los Angeles, California. After the last team has pitched, judges will deliberate, and winners will be announced at the end of the event. Solution: Building your poster March - June After receiving and incorporating mentor comments, teams start composing a poster that summarizes their process for coming up with an inventive solution. On Scholar Teaching Day, poster templates will be made available at the commencement of the program. Posters will include an introduction, an issue explanation, and a solution. PROGRAM TIMELINE

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Institutional Guidance: Undergraduate Students Academic barriers, such as institutions refusing to admit students based on their immigration status, can present unnecessary stress and challenges to rising students. These guides provide information on how to apply for programs that consider undocumented applicants with temporary benefits, DACA, or other immigration statuses. Know Your Educational Resources For students pursuing a professional program, especially in medicine, it is essential to stay on track during their undergraduate years. This document provides resources that students can use at their institutions to help them stay competitive for future applications. Topics include academic renewal, understanding GPAs, and proper course withdrawal. Published in The AIR Professional File “Students Want to Feel Safe, Safety Breeds Inclusivity”: How Universities Implement Data Collection Methods for Undocumented Students Authors: Cynthia N. Carvajal, Felecia Russell, and Yadira Ortiz Inclusivity in data reports for undocumented students can be difficult to achieve. By nature of those students’ status and livelihood, there is contention among academics and practitioners on whether this is a population that should not be formally tracked or identified, for a variety of reasons. Drawing from undocumented critical theory to center the varied experiences of undocumented (current and former) students, this study surveyed the study’s authors and other higher education professionals to identify strategies that also center those most directly impacted. This article details existing strategies that intentionally and safely center undocumented students in replicable and standardized data. You can also down load the article by clicking here. DEI Feature: Advising Meets Institutional Advocacy: Creating Systems of Support for Undocumented Students Author: Yadira Ortiz, Executive Director, Pre-Health Dreamers The percentage of undocumented students in higher education is lower than their U.S. citizen peers and even lower for undocumented students pursuing graduate and professional programs. Advisors and administrators can support the advancement of undocumented students through higher education through self-teaching, advocacy, and coalition building. Advising and working with undocumented students includes understanding immigration and state and federal policies. In addition, advising these students calls for educators to advocate for changes to requirements and processes that block the advancement of students who are undocumented into higher education and the workforce. 2020-2021 Developing an UndocuSupport System: Enrichment Assessment of Campus Support for Undocumented Students “Pre-Health Dreamers' enrichment assessment was created through a collaborative effort of individuals with a background in higher education, research, recruitment, admissions, establishing programming, advocacy and resources for undocumented students. Undocumented students provided their knowledge, experiences and hands-on support to make this project happen.”

Institutional Guidance: Post-Bacc Academic barriers, such as institutions refusing to admit students based on their immigration status, can present unnecessary stress and challenges to rising students. These guides provide information on how to apply for programs that consider undocumented applicants with temporary benefits, DACA, or other immigration statuses. Pursuing Post-Bacc Programs DACA, TPS, non-SSN This post-baccalaureate (post-bac) program guide was produced by Pre-Health Dreamers (PHD) to assist you in determining if a post-bac is the right choice for you. Students who wish to improve their Grade Point Average (GPA), have made the decision to change fields, or require extra assistance to bolster their graduate or medical application may find that post-bac programs are beneficial. It is possible to enroll in post-bac programs. However, PHD is aware from personal experience that students without documentation face challenges when enrolling in post-bac programs. Pre-Health Dreamers is available to assist undocumented students at every stage of their journey. This paper will go over strategies for reducing and overcoming typical roadblocks that students have when finishing a post-baccalaureate degree. 2019 Breaking More Barriers Report DACA, TPS, non-SSN “Specifically, the survey elucidates the demographics of undocumented students pursuing health and health-science careers, describes the barriers they face within educational settings (e.g. access to pre-health advisors and career advising, financial aid challenges, and peer support networks), provides insights to their lived experiences (e.g. key challenges they have faced due to their immigration status), and describes their career aspirations (e.g. which degree programs they are pursuing and if they wish to practice in underserved areas). The survey was designed to build on previous initiatives and be a collaborative project with continued input and guidance from PHD staff.” 2022 Guidance for Postbaccalaureate Programs on Considering Applicants with Undocumented Status DACA, TPS, non-SSN This document guides postbaccalaureate programs on considering undocumented applicants with temporary benefits or protections while in the United States and applicants without a Social Security Number (SSN). These temporary protections include Temporary Protective Status (TPS) or Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). We want to encourage programs to strengthen the holistic support provided to undocumented students pursuing postbaccalaureate programs at their institutions.

Financial Resources National Financial Aid Resources Smart Money Moves, Navigating Financial Aid Securing financial aid for undocumented students during their undergraduate journey can be a challenging task. This document provides an overview for students on how their GPA can impact their financial aid and raises awareness about institutional aid and support. Learn More Financial Strategies Guide to Undocumented Students Provides actionable steps to navigate financial aid, including identifying on-campus resources, applying for scholarships, institutional loans, and funding opportunities. It also highlights strategies for negotiating financial aid, private loan options, and repayment programs tailored for undocumented students pursuing higher education. Learn More Financial Strategies: 101 for Professional Programs Provides actionable steps to identify funding opportunities, collaborate with institutions for financial aid access, and establish partnerships with private funders and credit unions. It also includes strategies for institutional fundraising, expanding aid, and navigating tuition residency and private loan options tailored to the unique needs of undocumented students. Learn More 2024 Scholarship List Scholarships open for students regardless of immigration status. Includes opportunities for high school seniors, undergraduate (community college and 4-year university) and students in graduate/professional programs. Dreamers Graduate Loan Program As you may be aware, Dreamers are currently ineligible for Federal loan programs due to their immigration status, and many Dreamers are discouraged from attending graduate schools due to the lack of sustainable financing options available. The loan program is being managed by a national non-profit organization, Social Finance , in partnership with Funding U , as the loan originator, and Launch Servicing , as the loan servicer. This private loan program offers Dreamers loans at a similar annual percentage rate to that of the federal Grad Plus loan program without any cosigner or minimum credit score required.* Learn More *Please be aware that the terms and eligibility criteria for this loan program are subject to change without notice. Funding is limited and subject to availability at the time of application. Availability of funds is not guaranteed. Self Help Financial Loan Self-Help Federal Credit Union is pleased to offer financing for medical students with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival (DACA) status attending certain qualifying universities. Students will be approved for a line of credit to cover the total cost of attendance for medical school with rates and fees based on the Federal Direct Grad PLUS loan. Learn More Pre-Health Internship List Internships open for students regardless of immigration status. Includes opportunities for high school seniors, undergraduate (community college and 4-year university) and students in graduate/professional programs. NILC Map: State Laws & Policies on Access to Higher Education for Immigrants “Provides current state laws and policies on access to higher education for immigrants.” State Financial Aid Resources: - California Dream Act California Dream Act - New York State Dream Act New York State Dream Act - Oregon Student Aid Application (ORSAA) Oregon Student Aid Application (ORSAA) - New Jersey Alternative Financial Aid Application New Jersey Alternative Financial Aid Application - Washington Application For Financial Aid Washington Application for Financial Aid - Colorado College Opportunity Fund Colorado College Opportunity Fund

Changing the Game Pre-Health Dreamers is the first undocumented student-born organization to push for changes in admission policies at health-related professional programs denying students due to their status. 01 National Community Coalition (NCC) Pre-Health Dreamers’ National Community Coalition (NCC) seeks to address barriers and empower institutions that seek to better assist and work with the undocumented community. Through a year-long training, support, and collaboration with the members that serve in these institutions, we will enrich the spaces they provide for the most historically excluded communities. We are excited to have signed on our first member schools: SUNY Upstate Medical University and California University of Science and Medicine. 02 Advancing Public Health Through Law and Policy PHD changed admission policies at nursing programs and other health-related programs denying students due to their status. 03 PEEP: Peer Engagement and Enrichment Program PEEP fosters opportunities for undocumented individuals to become leaders in their professional programs, healthcare, and research through workshops, training, guest speakers, and peer mentorship. After completing PEEP, alums will continue to be offered leadership opportunities to train undocumented individuals to advocate for equitable higher education and professional program access. 04 Changes in admission policies for health professional programs PHD works to inform educators and program decision-makers about California laws and policies that advance undocumented students in pursuing health-related programs and careers. We invite you to join our efforts to create welcoming admission requirements and spaces for undocumented students pursuing health-related professional programs at your campus.

Educators UndocuEDU Become one of our educational institutional members LaunchPad: Educator's Edition A 6-week boot camp that prepares educators to support undocumented students—even those without SSNs—in building healthcare careers through entrepreneurship. Request a presentation Do you want us to present a topic at your school?

Institutional Guidance: Nursing Academic barriers, such as institutions refusing to admit students based on their immigration status, can present unnecessary stress and challenges to rising students. These guides provide information on how to apply for programs that consider undocumented applicants with temporary benefits, DACA, or other immigration statuses. 2025 Q&A: Undocumented Nursing Students in California DACA, TPS, or no SSN Undocumented students can pursue nursing regardless of their status. Even more, in California, legislation prevents higher education institutions, including nursing programs, from denying admission to students based solely on their immigration status. Although nursing programs cannot deny admission based on immigration status, undocumented students may face challenges in completing clinical requirements if they lack an SSN. This brief provides an overview of undocumented students' challenges when pursuing nursing programs and provides solutions that nursing programs and clinical sites can implement. This document focuses on California policies, Pre-Health Dreamers (PHD) encourage individuals from other states to use it as a foundation for research and advocacy within their regions. Undocumented Students Pursuing Nursing: What is an ITIN? DACA, TPS, or no SSN Undocumented students often face significant barriers when applying to or completing nursing programs. Misconceptions about their ability to pass a background check, complete clinical experience, and obtain professional licensure, especially if they do not have a Social Security Number (SSN), can be particularly challenging. For many scenarios, an Individualized Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) serves as a key solution, helping to fulfill or complete some of the requirements that undocumented students may struggle with due to the lack of a Social Security Number (SSN). This document guides nursing programs in supporting undocumented students in obtaining and utilizing ITINs effectively to complete their nursing programs and receive their professional licensure. Support Letter to Directors of Clinical Programs DACA, TPS, or no SSN PHD wants to ensure that hospital and clinical site decision-makers understand the California laws and policies that have been put in place to aid undocumented students in pursuing health-related careers, specifically nursing. To support the PHD community, we ask all nursing programs and clinical sites in CA to create welcoming admission requirements and processes for undocumented students. Pursuing Nursing: Q&A for Undocumented Students in California DACA, TPS, or no SSN “PHD designed this document to answer general questions for students pursuing nursing degrees in California who are undocumented (without SSN) or under DACA or TPS immigration status. The text provides information regarding California legislation that supports the advancement of undocumented individuals into medical programs, such as nursing. The Q&A also includes general information about background checks without a social security number, obtaining clinical experience without a social security number, and obtaining professional licenses as an undocumented individual with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).” Letter to Directors of Nursing Programs in Support of Undocumented Students DACA, TPS, or no SSN We address the mounting concerns towards institutional leaders in support of the PHD community and educators throughout the state. We cordially welcome all California nursing programs to join us in our efforts to establish friendly admission standards and areas for undocumented students enrolled in nursing programs on their campus. Health Career Pathway Chart for Pre-Health Students in California DACA, TPS, or no SSN “The information below is based on the most updated research done by Pre-Health Dreamers (PHD). Please note that this information is subject to change. We recommend that you use this document as a starting point to begin your journey in researching professional programs. This document was created to help support individuals who have Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), Temporary Protective Status (TPS), or who do not have a Social Security Number (SSN).”

Institutional Guidance: Licensure Academic barriers, such as institutions refusing to admit students based on their immigration status, can present unnecessary stress and challenges to rising students. These guides provide information on how to apply for programs that consider undocumented applicants with temporary benefits, DACA, or other immigration statuses. Professional and Occupational Licensing for Undocumented Students DACA, TPS, non-SSN Th is document details which states provide licensure to rising undocumented health professionals. Both, individuals with and without an SSN are discussed.

BIG THINGS HAVE DETERMINED BEGINNINGS... Informally co-founded in 2012 by three undocumented youth in the San Francisco Bay Area, Pre-Health Dreamers (PHD) flourished out of the need for comprehensive support to pursue higher education at the graduate and professional levels. Today, PHD serves at the national level. Mission Pre-Health Dreamers (PHD) promotes a culture of inclusion in higher education and healthcare by working with institutions to establish equitable holistic support and processes for undocumented communities. PHD empowers and equips students to skillfully use their voices to create a meaningful connection with higher education and professional programs. PHD centers and amplifies the voices of undocumented and immigrant students who contribute significantly to their communities yet face inequitable access to higher education, healthcare careers, and economic mobility. Through its programming, PHD supports academic and professional development while cultivating leaders prepared to advance equity and transform the systems they enter.. Vision PHD believes that immigration status should not exclude anyone from pursuing their dreams of higher education, careers, and contributing to their communities. PHD envisions a healthcare system that is accessible and welcoming to all regardless of their immigration status. PHD’s programs encourage equitable access, educational opportunities, and resources for traditionally underrepresented communities. We believe that by providing a continuity of support and training for undocumented pre-health students and health professionals, we will positively impact the health care services that undocumented communities receive. Our team provides: Student advising and advocacy support through our Pathways program. National peer-support network and resources Institutional advocacy in higher education and health care through our UndocuEdu program Community training on health care access for the undocumented and immigrant community A platform that elevates immigrant-friendly policy and legislation. Our interdepartmental collaborations address barriers and challenges from distinctive angles and at different levels. PHD adapts to the unique adversities that arise for individuals with complex immigration circumstances to best serve our diverse immigrant population.

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This report details goals met by PHD during its 2024-2025 programming year and future 2025 - 2026 goals. Published July 2025. PHD's 2025 Annual Report Statistics Get to know a little bit more about Pre-Health Dreamers as well as getting more information on our students! Future Goals Pre-Health Dreamer's vision to help our next generation, immigrant students achieve their dreams! From our Scholars See what our students have to say about their life experiences as well as their experiences with PHDreamers! Work from our Students See some of the work around the immigrant and health communities from our students.

PATHWAYS | Student Portal PATHWAYS is a four-month virtual program designed to help undergraduate undocumented students who are passionate about pursuing careers in healthcare. The program offers career exploration and focuses on various aspects such as professional development, academic enhancement, advocacy, establishing support networks, and introduction to entrepreneurship. Accepted participants will have the opportunity to engage in online events with their peers to share resources, exchange knowledge, and receive su PATHWAYS is a four-month virtual program designed to help undergraduate undocumented students who are passionate about pursuing careers in healthcare. The program offers career exploration and focuses on various aspects such as professional development, academic enhancement, advocacy, establishing support networks, and introduction to entrepreneurship. Accepted participants will have the opportunity to engage in online events with their peers to share resources, exchange knowledge, and receive support within a safe and inclusive environment. Moreover, the program aims to equip participants with the necessary skills to navigate the application process for their desired graduate or professional health programs in the future. Community building is core to the program, and participants are encouraged to participate in advocacy projects promoting access to healthcare and education for the undocumented community. Apply PATHWAYS Scholar Program Schedule for Students Full program schedule, highlighted with mandatory, optional and workshop events. Health Career PATHWAY Chart We recommend that you use this document as a starting point to begin your journey in researching professional programs.