Step 4: Income Generation Options for Undocumented Students

Thanks to widespread student advocacy efforts to pass legislation allowing undocumented students to pay in-state tuition (AB1540), get state financial aid (AB130-131) and apply for professional licensing (SB1159), higher education and career opportunities have become much more accessible for undocumented young people in California. But after graduation, undocumented students must identify ways to utilize their degrees and earn a living. While it’s true that being undocumented creates barriers to pursuing employment in the U.S., there are many ways to earn a living through entrepreneurship regardless of your status.

Becoming an entrepreneur is not easy, but it is possible and can serve as a way to participate in—and help shape— today’s changing economy. This toolkit provides in-depth information, resources and templates that address questions about independent contracting and business start-ups, as well as profiles of immigrant entrepreneurs to see real life examples of what people are doing. At a time when there is much uncertainty regarding the future of immigrants in the U.S., particularly DACA beneficiaries who may lose the opportunity to legally work, this toolkit outlines legal ways for all immigrants, regardless of their status, to utilize their degrees and thrive in the U.S.

This toolkit is intended as a resource for educators who wish to support undocumented students and for undocumented students and alumni who are trying to figure out their career options. This toolkit is not intended to be read in one sitting, but rather used as a resource directory that is frequently referenced. The appendix section includes templates that can be downloaded whenever they are needed.