The DREAM Act (Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors) was first introduced in 2001. Since 2001, there have been 11 versions of the DREAM Act that have all provided the pathway to naturalization for young undocumented immigrants. Despite efforts in passing the DREAM Act into law (and not receiving enough votes), it is able to help those who came to the United States as undocumented children.
If the DREAM Act is passed into law, undocumented highschool graduates (former, current, and future) would be able to obtain citizenship through college, the armed services, or work.
Within the bill, there is a three-step process embedded for young undocumented immigrants seeking citizenship. Firstly, the individual that is eligible to have CPR (conditional permanent resident) status. If obtained, the individual is able to work legally in the United States.
Individuals that maintain their CPR status are able to apply for LPR (lawful permanent resident) status with the understanding that the individuals have completed a degree in higher education, have worked lawfully in the United States for three years, or have been a part of military service.
Once an individual has maintained LPR status for at least five years, the individual can begin the naturalization process.