If you are Undocumented Students in Higher Education and want to go to college in the U.S., you have come to the right place. Undocumented students can attend public schools from kindergarten through 12th grade. It is possible due to federal law and a Supreme Court case. But getting into college might be tough depending on state laws.
As a high school student without legal status, you likely have questions about college. In this article, we will talk about undocumented students in higher education. Let’s get started.
Overview of Undocumented Students in Higher Education
Did you know that as of 2021, there were more than 10.5 million undocumented immigrants living in the U.S.? This includes many young people who dream of going to college. Around 408,579 undocumented students are currently attending college, according to the latest report.
Federal law does not stop undocumented students from going to college. But dealing with legal issues might make it tough. If you are uncertain about your chances for education, resources are available for undocumented students and those with DACA status who want to go to college.
Undocumented students can legally enroll in colleges and universities across the U.S. While some states have rules against them attending public schools, most states allow it.
That means there are nearly half a million college students who are undocumented. Here are some key findings from the report:
- About 48% of undocumented students in college are Hispanic, while 25% are Asian, and 12% are Black.
- Most of them, about 81%, go to public colleges, while 19% attend private universities.
- The states with the highest numbers of undocumented students in college are California, Texas, Florida, New York, and Illinois.
Facts About Undocumented Students in Higher Education
Here are some of the facts about undocumented students in higher education. Let’s have a look at them:
1. You Can Go to College
You should understand that there is no federal law stopping U.S. colleges from accepting undocumented students. Some states have rules against them attending public colleges. But most colleges have their policies. You should check the rules of the colleges you are interested in.
Undocumented students cannot get federal financial help for college. But there are still other ways to get financial help or scholarships for college.
Your options might be limited because of your undocumented status, but going to college is still possible if you plan well. You should start planning early, do lots of research, and do not hesitate to ask questions.
2. You are Not Alone
You need to work hard to get into college, but having support is important. You should start by talking to your family about your college plans and how to pay for it. You can also get advice from teachers and counselors at your high school.
They can help you and connect you with other undocumented students who have gone to college. If you are worried about telling them you are undocumented, remember that they cannot share that information because of the law.
3. You Can Find a College That Fits You
As you search for colleges that fit your needs, make sure to check if they have support programs for first-generation undocumented students. You can start by exploring college websites and materials.
Remember these points when considering colleges:
- Colleges have different rules for admitting undocumented students.
- Each college has its policies on giving financial help to undocumented students.
- Public colleges must follow state laws regarding tuition for undocumented students. You can find state-specific information and resources in the “Repository of Resources for Undocumented Students” document.
4. You will Apply Like Any Other Student
When applying to college, the process is the same for everyone. You will need to check what each college requires for admissions, like test scores, grades, and the classes you took in high school. They might also ask for a personal essay and recommendation letters.
To get ready for college, it is important to do well in high school. Colleges pay attention to your grades and the classes you take. You can take advanced classes, like Advanced Placement (AP) courses. It is a good idea. If you do well on AP Exams, some colleges might even give you credit, This can save you money on tuition.
5. Your Options May Change
It is essential to stay updated on any changes in laws and rules that might affect you as an undocumented student and your college plans. To get the latest information on updates to DACA and other policies affecting undocumented students, you can visit the U.S. Department of Homeland Security or the Immigrant Legal Resource Center.
How Should You Choose The College?
1. How To Apply for College?
When you are applying to college as an undocumented or DACA student, there are many things to think about. The good thing is, that you do not have to prove you are a citizen to get into a college in the U.S. But, some states have rules that make it hard for undocumented students.
For example, in South Carolina and Alabama, these students cannot go to public colleges. Also, in states like Arizona, Georgia, and Missouri, they cannot get the cheaper in-state tuition.
2. Financial Help
If you are an undocumented or DACA student in college, you cannot get federal financial help. This means no federal loans, grants, or work-study programs. Most states follow this rule too. But, a few states like California and Minnesota offer state financial help for undocumented and DACA students.
However, there are some private companies and nonprofit groups that offer scholarships for you as an undocumented student.
One organization you can check out is Golden Door Scholars (GDS). They provide big scholarships, help with careers and fellowships, mentorship. They give you a chance to connect with other undocumented students.
3. The DREAM Act
While the DREAM Act has not become a law yet, it aims to offer a path to citizenship for undocumented individuals brought to the U.S. as children.
Last year, senators introduced a new version of the DREAM Act, although it has not been passed by Congress yet. If passed, this legislation would make it easier for many undocumented and DACA students to attend college and access financial help.
4. Legal Support
You do not have to worry about paying high fees for legal help when applying to college. Some organizations offer affordable or even free legal assistance to undocumented and DACA students.
For example, the Immigration Legal Resource Center and the National Immigration Law Center provide low-cost services and free resources to help you understand your rights and status. Also, you can find inexpensive legal services in your area through the National Immigration Services Directory.
5. DACA Program
If you came to the U.S. as a child without papers, you can apply for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. This program offers you two years of protection from deportation. It is a temporary fix, but you can renew it before it runs out. The idea is to give you a break from being sent back to your home country.
Student Life
Your college experience might be different if you are undocumented or have DACA. But do not worry, here are some tips that can help you make the most of it.
When you are in college as an undocumented or DACA student, it might feel like you are all alone and no one gets what you are going through. But, you can find others in the same boat as you. When you connect with these students, you can form a group to support each other and help each other succeed.
2. Maintain Your Mental Health
When you start college, you might feel lots of different emotions like anxiety, depression, or guilt. It can be overwhelming. But do not worry, most colleges have mental health centers where you can talk to someone like a counselor or psychologist. You can talk to them about anything, and it stays between you two.
3. Participate on Campus
You can find activities or causes that you care about. Getting involved in campus activities can make you feel like you have a purpose. It might even help you make a real difference, especially if you join advocacy groups for undocumented and immigrant students.
4. Use On-Campus Support Services
If you need help, colleges usually have resources to help you learn English as a second language. You might get private tutoring or do activities to practice English with others. Schools can also support you academically by teaching you note-taking, test-taking, and time-management skills.
5. Be In Touch With Your Family
Going to college, especially if it is your first time, can feel overwhelming. You should stay connected with your family. It can help you feel more grounded. They can remind you why you decided to go to college and give you motivation when things get tough.
Career and Employment Scope
If you qualify for DACA status, you can also apply for an employment authorization document and a Social Security number. These documents can help you legally find work in the U.S. after college, even if you do not have permanent legal status. Please remember to renew your DACA status regularly, even if you are working towards citizenship or legal status.
Finding jobs can be tough for you if you are a DACA recipient due to current U.S. laws. But there are resources to help you through the job search process. You can also get advice on interviews and discuss your undocumented status.
You can talk to career services staff or immigration experts at your college or university. They can answer any questions you have as you look for jobs and internships.
College Resources for Undocumented Students
1. United We Dream
United We Dream supports young immigrants in the U.S. without considering their immigration status. Their education equity program teaches undocumented students how to go through the education system.
2. Big Future
You can check out Big Future. It is a college planning website by the College Board. It has articles specifically for undocumented students who are in college. You can learn how to apply to college and manage the costs, considering your immigration status.
3. TheDream.Us
If you arrived in the U.S. before November 2015, you can apply for TheDream.US program. This program gives scholarships and mentorship opportunities to students who are starting college.
4. Immigrants Rising
If you are an undocumented student looking to go to college, Immigrants Rising is here to help. They offer financial support and legal advice that you can access without revealing your identity.
5. Repository of Resources for Undocumented Students
If you are an undocumented student, the repository of resources for undocumented students breaks down the laws in 11 states. They provide resources for each one. It is a helpful tool to understand your rights and options for education.
DACA Resources for Undocumented Students
1. CitizenPath – DACA Resource Center
If you are a DACA recipient, CitizenPath – DACA Resource Center is a great help. It gives you all you need to know about DACA. It includes how to replace your DACA card, different paths to legal status, and answers to common questions. CitizenPath also provides step-by-step guidance for filling out DACA applications, making the process easier for you.
2. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
If you want the most reliable info on DACA, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has got you covered. You can visit this page to find out all about how to file and access the necessary forms.
3. Cal State – DACA Updates
You do not have to be enrolled in a California State University to use this resource. It helps you stay updated on the latest DACA news and provides guidance and links to helpful resources.
4. UC Berkeley – DACA Guide
You can easily understand DACA with UC Berkeley – DACA Guide. It gives you step-by-step instructions on applying for and renewing your DACA status.
5. Annotated Initial DACA Application Packet
You will find helpful tips in this annotated application packet from the Immigration Legal Resource Center. It adds notes directly to the application form to guide you through the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What’s an undocumented student?
An undocumented student is someone who lives in the country but doesn’t have the necessary papers to prove they are legally allowed to be in the United States. This can happen for different reasons, like coming into the country without permission, staying after a visa has expired, or being brought here as a child by someone who is also undocumented.
2. Can undocumented students go to college?
Yes. In the United States, undocumented students can go to college. But they might face some money and legal problems. Undocumented students cannot get federal financial help like grants and loans.
However, some states have rules that let undocumented students pay lower tuition fees or get state-funded financial aid. Also, there are private scholarships and college grants specifically for undocumented students.
3. What states accept undocumented students?
In the United States, some states have made rules to help undocumented students go to college. For example, California, New York, Texas, and Illinois have their laws called the Dream Act. These laws offer opportunities for undocumented students to get an education.
Since the rules can be different in each state, you should keep yourself informed and check what is available to you. Also, some private colleges might have unique ways to support undocumented students like special scholarships. It is a good idea to look into those options too.
4. How can an undocumented student become legal?
Becoming legal in the U.S. as an undocumented person is a complicated process with different options. These options include:
– Seeking asylum
– Getting sponsored by family members Finding a job that can lead to immigration
– Joining special programs
– Applying for deferred action
You need to get legal advice to figure out the best choice for your situation.
5. What resources are available to undocumented students pursuing higher education?
Many groups and non-profit organizations offer programs to help undocumented students get into college. These programs can give you advice on finding the right college, applying, getting financial aid, and finding scholarships.
Also, many colleges have special offices who can help undocumented students with things like admissions, financial aid, scholarships, and other resources on campus. If you need legal help with your immigration status or understanding your rights, you can reach out to immigration lawyers or organizations that specialize in immigration.
Conclusion
If you are an undocumented student, you have the same right as U.S. citizens and permanent residents to attend public primary and secondary schools. Just like other kids, you must go to school until you reach a certain age set by the state. Enrolling undocumented students in higher education shows that they can succeed, despite being undocumented. But, only a small number of undocumented students go on to attend college.
