Diversity Fellowship Instructions for DACA Applicants

This page provides an explanation of how applicants with DACA status can apply for a diversity recruitment fellowship. Screenshots of the Graduate School application are included for reference.  

  1. On page one of the Graduate School application, applicants are asked to indicate if they are a U.S. Citizen, Permanent Resident, or Foreign National. The Foreign National category includes DACA status holders. 
  2. When the applicant selects “Foreign National”, the application displays an additional question that asks “Are you interested in opportunities that may be available to students with DACA status?” (Y/N)

    When applicants select "Foreign National" on page one of the Graduate School application, page 7 displays a question about fellowship opportunities for DACA students.
    Selecting “Foreign National” prompts the application to display an additional question that asks “Are you interested in opportunities that may be available to students with DACA status?”
  3. If the applicant selects “Yes”, the Fellowships in Support of Diversity section will display on page seven of the application.
  4. On page seven, there is a description of the Fellowships in Support of Diversity selection process. Applicants are asked if they would like to be considered for a fellowship. If they check “Yes”, the system displays a box where you are asked to confirm that you are a U.S. Citizen, Permanent Resident, or have been approved for DACA status. You will also be given a link to upload your supplemental diversity essay. Please note, your supplemental diversity essay is only used to evaluate your nomination and selection for a diversity fellowship, it is not used  to evaluate your candidacy for admission to the graduate program for which you have chosen to apply. 

If you have any questions please contact grad_assoc_dean@cornell.edu. You may also wish to consult the Admissions and Admitted Student FAQ page which includes a section of information specifically pertaining to undocumented applicants and applicants who have been approved for DACA status.