The DREAM Act is a legislative proposal in the United States aimed at providing a pathway to legal status for certain undocumented immigrants who were brought to the country as children. The acronym stands for "Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors." It seeks to protect these individuals, often referred to as DREAMers, from deportation and allows them to pursue higher education or military service. Introduced multiple times since 2001, the DREAM Act has garnered support from various lawmakers and advocacy groups. To qualify, applicants must meet specific criteria, including having lived in the U.S. for a certain number of years and demonstrating good moral character.