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During this time of year, thousands of high school seniors across the country will be applying for college. For most students, the application period is marked by stress, excitement and hope. However, for undocumented students, this period can be marked with added despair and frustration, as the vast majority of them cannot go on to higher education.

According to the National Immigration Law Center, about 65,000 undocumented students who have been in the United States for more than five years graduate from high school each year. Despite having been in the country for so long, it is difficult for them to be able to pay in-state tuition fees, obtain financial aid, and get a job to cover the cost of higher education.

Without the opportunity to go on to higher education, these students have little choice but to seek work illegally and often end up depending on friends, family and sometimes the government in order to meet their economic needs. Meanwhile, the American society misses out on the opportunity to strengthen its workforce and build human capital.

The Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors Act would be an excellent way to address the precarious situation of thousands of undocumented students. Sponsored by Sen. Orrin Hatch, R-Utah, and Sen. Richard Durbin, D-Ill., in 2003, the DREAM Act would provide legal status to undocumented students on the path to higher education. Students eligible for relief must have entered the country before turning 16 years old; must have been in the country for at least five years; must obtain a high school diploma or general equivalency diploma; must be accepted into a two- or four-year higher-education institution; and must have a clean criminal record.

An eligible student would receive legal status for six years, during which he or she must graduate from a two-year college, complete two years at a four-year university, or serve in the military for two years. The student would be granted permanent legal status at the end of the six-year period if one of these requirements has been fulfilled.

Besides rewarding students for their academic achievements, the DREAM Act would also have a positive impact on the U.S. economy. By allowing students to obtain a better education and consequently earn higher wages once they join the workforce, the government will receive higher tax revenues and spend less on public services.

According to estimates from a 1999 RAND study, a 30-year-old Mexican immigrant woman who graduates from college will pay $5,300 more in taxes and cost $3,900 less in government services.

Also, having legal status will allow immigrants to increase their purchasing power and home-ownership rates.

Finally, giving students legal status will be an investment in the human capital of the country.

Last year, the DREAM Act passed out of the Senate judiciary committee by a vote of 16-3. Despite having bipartisan support from 48 senators, it was not put to a vote on the Senate floor. It is yet to be reintroduced this year.

The DREAM Act is a sensible piece of legislation. It will be beneficial to the U.S. economy and reward hardworking students who did not have a say in their families’ decision to come to this country. UCLA students can get involved in supporting the DREAM Act by urging Hatch to reintroduce the bill and by contacting their representatives to express their support.

Rios is a third-year economics student.