Undocumented Students: Which Universities Offer Acceptance And Support

Undocumented students, immigrant students, and refugees have the right to attend college in the US, but they often encounter legal and practical barriers when pursuing higher education. While there is no federal law against US colleges and universities accepting undocumented students, there is also no federal law requiring them to do so. This means that each state and institution has its own policies regarding undocumented students' access to higher education and financial aid. Some states and institutions are more welcoming to undocumented students than others, and it is important for prospective students to carefully research their options.

Financial aid for undocumented students

Undocumented students in the United States face legal and practical challenges when pursuing higher education, particularly when applying for financial aid. While undocumented students, like all other students, have the right to attend college, they are not eligible for federal financial aid, including loans and grants.

However, this does not mean that they cannot access financial aid and scholarships. Undocumented students can access state financial aid in some states, and institutional financial aid and/or merit scholarships in some colleges.

State Financial Aid

State laws and policies vary, and undocumented students' access to state financial aid depends on the state in which they reside. In some states, undocumented students are eligible for state financial aid, while in other states, they are treated as foreign students and are therefore ineligible for state aid. It is important for undocumented students to research the specific laws and policies of their state to understand their eligibility for state financial aid.

Institutional Financial Aid

Some colleges and universities offer institutional financial aid and scholarships to undocumented students. These institutions strive to provide affordable financial options for their students by offering need-based financial aid packages that are tailored to each student's financial situation. To apply for institutional financial aid, undocumented students may be required to submit financial aid applications, such as the CSS Profile or the institution's own unique financial aid application.

Private Scholarships and Grants

Undocumented students can also access private scholarships and grants offered by various organizations. Hispanic-serving colleges and universities, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), and faith-based institutions are known to advocate for undocumented students and often provide scholarships tailored to their needs. Additionally, the California Dream Act Application (CADAA) in California allows undocumented students to access state and institutional financial aid programs, grants, scholarships, and loans.

In-State Tuition

In addition to financial aid, undocumented students should consider the cost of tuition when choosing a college. In some states, undocumented students may be eligible for in-state tuition rates, which can significantly reduce the cost of attendance. However, in other states, they may be charged out-of-state tuition fees, even if they have resided in the state for a long time.

State policies on undocumented students

Some states have passed laws that permit undocumented students to pay in-state tuition rates under certain conditions, while other states charge out-of-state tuition fees to undocumented students, even if they are longtime residents. In some cases, public schools in these states may reject applications from undocumented immigrants. Four states provide in-state tuition to undocumented students at some but not all universities, while four other states restrict in-state tuition eligibility to DACA recipients only. Nine states actively block access to in-state tuition for undocumented students, with three of these states prohibiting them from enrolling in all or some public colleges.

Undocumented students can access state financial aid in some states, and certain colleges may provide financial aid packages that cover 100% of the student's calculated financial need. In addition, undocumented students can expect a more inclusive atmosphere and tailored scholarship opportunities at Hispanic-serving colleges and universities, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), and faith-based institutions. These institutions often have experience advocating for particular minority groups and working to support underserved students.

It is important for undocumented students to carefully consider the state and institutional policies that may affect their college options, as well as the availability of financial aid and the possibility of paying in-state tuition rates. The Higher Ed Immigration Portal provides an interactive map with up-to-date information on each state's higher education accessibility, in-state tuition, and state financial aid policies for undocumented students.

Sanctuary campuses

The sanctuary campus movement gained momentum in November 2016 after Donald Trump was elected President of the United States and began to take steps to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program and increase immigration enforcement. Trump's election brought fear to undocumented and DACA-status students on campuses across the country. In response, many institutions of higher education created resources, put in place sanctuary policies, and even declared themselves as sanctuary campuses.

As of January 2025, there were at least eight colleges and universities that had declared themselves sanctuary campuses, and many more have outlined policies and procedures that protect undocumented students and others threatened with registration or deportation. For example, Michigan State University’s Associated Students of Michigan State University (ASMSU) passed a student resolution Bill 59-49 in 2023 to advocate and support MSU as a sanctuary campus for undocumented, immigrant, and international students. Portland State University and Reed College were the first institutions in the country to officially declare their campuses as sanctuaries.

While the intent of the sanctuary campus movement is for colleges and universities to adopt policies to protect undocumented people, it’s important to remember that “sanctuary campus” is not a legally enforceable term. As a result, it’s critical to push for specific policies that will help keep undocumented students and community members safe, such as non-disclosure of student information, increased financial aid opportunities, and preventing school officers from inquiring about individuals' immigration status.

Application processes

When applying to colleges as an undocumented student, it is important to keep in mind that each state and institution has different policies and laws regarding undocumented students' access to in-state tuition and financial aid. It is recommended to give preference to institutions that have historically served underserved populations, such as Hispanic-serving colleges and universities, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), and faith-based institutions, as they often have more experience advocating for and supporting undocumented students.

Research State Policies and Institution Requirements:

• Different states have varying policies towards undocumented students' access to in-state tuition and financial aid. Visit the Higher Ed Immigration Portal to learn about each state's policies and determine which states offer more inclusive opportunities.
• Identify institutions that are supportive of undocumented students. Look for colleges that have designated themselves as sanctuary campuses or have implemented substantial policies to support and protect undocumented students.
• Understand the specific requirements and application processes for each institution you plan to apply to. Some colleges may have unique financial aid applications or additional requirements for undocumented students.

Financial Aid and Scholarships:

• Undocumented students are not eligible for federal financial aid. However, they may qualify for state financial aid, institutional aid, or private scholarships and grants.
• Research and understand the financial aid options offered by each state and institution. For example, the New York State DREAM Act provides access to state-administered grants and scholarships for undocumented students.
• Complete the required financial aid applications, such as the College Scholarship Service (CSS) Profile or the institution's unique financial aid forms. These forms help determine the amount of financial aid you may receive.
• Consider institutions that meet 100% of demonstrated financial need. These colleges strive to provide financial aid packages that cover the entire calculated financial need of the student.

Application Documents:

• Prepare the required application documents, such as the Common Application, official high school transcripts, letters of recommendation, and any other institution-specific requirements.
• Some colleges may require test scores, English proficiency exams, or financial certificates. However, many institutions, like The George Washington University, offer test-optional applications and do not consider immigration status in the admissions process.

Seek Guidance and Support:

• Connect with trusted teachers, counselors, or college admission counselors who have experience helping undocumented students. They can provide valuable advice and guidance throughout the application process.
• Reach out to current students or alumni who have successfully navigated the college application process as undocumented students. They can offer first-hand insights and support.
• Stay informed about any news and updates regarding laws and policies that may impact your college plans. This includes understanding your rights under federal law, such as the protection of your personal information, including immigration status.

Support for undocumented students

When it comes to support for undocumented students in the US, there are a number of considerations to be made. Firstly, it's important to note that there is no federal law against US colleges and universities accepting undocumented students. However, each state has different laws and policies regarding undocumented students' access to in-state tuition and state financial aid, and in a few cases, their admission to public universities. Therefore, it is crucial for undocumented students to research the policies of their desired college's state.

To support undocumented students, colleges and universities can implement a range of policies, programs, and training. For instance, institutions should clearly state that undocumented students are welcome on campus and outline the resources available to them. This includes student centres or groups focused on undocumented students or those from mixed-status families. Additionally, colleges can provide financial aid packages that meet 100% of the demonstrated need of undocumented students, which may include grants and scholarship funding.

Undocumented students from Latin America may feel more supported and culturally at ease at Hispanic-serving colleges and universities, which often sympathize with the issues faced by undocumented immigrants. Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and faith-based institutions also often advocate for undocumented students and provide an inclusive atmosphere.

To protect the undocumented community on campus, colleges and universities should be aware of the rights and responsibilities of staff, faculty, and students in the event of ICE raids or USCIS site visits. This includes knowing that they are not required to comply with all requests made by immigration officers.

Overall, while there is variation among states and institutions, there are resources and support networks available to help undocumented students access and succeed in higher education.

Frequently asked questions