College Bound

Resources for Undocumented Students

First, you can go to college, so don’t let anyone tell you different. You may experience a few more hurdles than US-born citizens. But lots of resources and scholarships exist for undocumented students. The important thing to remember is to plan early, ask lots of questions, and don’t give up. You will reach your goals.

In Arizona, you aren’t eligible for state or federal financial aid, but many colleges and private organizations offer scholarships. On the GEAR UP scholarship page, you can find many scholarships for undocumented students.

Four Things You Need to Know:

1. You can go to college. There is no federal law that prevents you from going to a US college or university.
2. You are not alone. Start with your family and trusted teachers/counselors. Let them know about your intentions. Know that by law, school officials can’t disclose immigration status.
3. You can find a college that fits you. Look for colleges that match your wants and needs. Check out college websites. You may also want to apply to private colleges because they often have large endowments, which can mean more scholarships.
4. You can find helpful resources. We’ve listed a few resources on this page, so visit the websites to learn more. One of the best resources for college exploration is the Arizona GEAR UP Senior Launch Guide.