Information for Undocumented Students
Undocumented students are school-age immigrants who live in the United States after entering the country without inspection or after overstaying their visas. They face unique challenges in accessing and paying for higher education. Across the country, these students and their allies are working to increase their opportunities to attend college.
In Oregon, eligible undocumented students have access to several ways to help pay for college:
Tuition Equity
Students pay in-state tuition at public universities.
Complete the Affidavit and Request for Exemption from Nonresident Tuition and Fees.
State Financial Aid
Includes the Oregon Opportunity Grant and Oregon Promise.
Complete the Oregon Student Aid Application (ORSAA).
Scholarships
Many scholarships do not require U.S. citizenship.
Complete the OSAC Scholarship Application and search and apply for other scholarships.
DACA students with a social security number should ask the colleges they apply to if they need to complete a paper version of the FAFSA to be eligible for institutional aid.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
GENERAL
My Undocumented Life
Information and resources for undocumented immigrants.
National Immigration Law Center
One of the leading organizations dedicated to defending and advocating for the rights of low-income immigrants. Provides useful information for DACA-eligible students.
Oregon GEAR UP: Undocumented Students in Oregon
Information for educators, students and parents about applying and paying for college for undocumented students. Available in Spanish. Can print as a folded booklet on 8.5"x11" paper.
FOR EDUCATORS
Educators For Fair Consideration (E4FC)
Information and resources for educators and students that empower undocumented young people to achieve educational and career goals. Includes post-election updates.
Immigrant and Refugee Children: A Guide for Educators and School Support Staff
Undocumented youth have a constitutional right to receive a free public K–12 education. Educators can support and affirm immigrant students with these resources.
U.S. Department of Education: Supporting Undocumented Youth
Resource guide for educators on helping undocumented students succeed in secondary and postsecondary education.
SCHOLARSHIP LISTS
Act On A Dream
Searchable scholarship database with over 200 scholarships.
DREAMers Roadmap
A website and mobile app that lists scholarship opportunities open to undocumented students.
Educators For Fair Consideration (E4FC)
Database of undergraduate and graduate scholarships updated each year.
Scholarships A-Z
Scholarships for students regardless of immigration status.