Applying for college and financial aid is complicated, time-consuming, and daunting at times. Even more so for undocumented students, but there is support and lots of resources for undocumented students to attend and afford college in California. Please explore the resources below. If you have questions or need additional support, please reach out to your ally in the College & Career Center.
Expert Advice and Resources for Undocumented College Students
"Many undocumented students don’t think about going to college because of legal or financial concerns or simply because of lack of information. It is true that undocumented students face a number of hurdles when it comes to a college education, but that doesn’t mean it’ s entirely out of reach. Learn more about tuition and enrollment policies, financial aid and scholarships, and get expert advice on how to overcome barriers in your pursuit of the American dream." ~ Pursuing the American Dream
Educators for Fair Consideration
The mission of E4FC is to "empower undocumented young people to achieve educational and career goals through personal, institutional and policy transformation." They have many resources for undocumented students, including "life-changing financial support that enables undocumented young people to overcome systemic barriers." E4FC also provides legal services and deferred action resources.
Financial Aid for Undocuscholars:
You can go to college!
While undocumented students are not eligible to apply for federal financial aid, they are eligible for Cal Grants, institution based financial aid, and there are many scholarships specifically available to undocumented students. There is a scholarship program specifically intended to make up for what undocumented students won't receive in federal Pell grants. Visit The DreamUS scholarship website to learn more, and see Ms. Surber in the College & Career Center for help applying!
The Facts
Approximately 65,000 undocumented students graduate from U.S. high schools every year, and many do not realize that they can continue their education in college, not only because of admissions requirements, but also because of affordability. Currently, however, sixteen states allow undocumented students to not just attend college, to pay in-state tuition, resident tuition as well.
Image Credit: College Guide for Undocumented Students.
In California, undocumented students are welcomed to attend any of our 23 California State Universities, ten University of California campuses, or 113 California Community Colleges and pay resident/in-state tuition.