Sophia AlexanderWhat Are Scholarships for Undocumented Students?
Currently, there are over 11 million undocumented immigrants residing in the United States, including millions of students trudging through high school with visions of college. If this is your circumstance, remember—you are not alone. You may have lofty visions of college, and scholarships may be the key to making those visions become a reality.
Colleges, public organizations, and private companies provide scholarships to assist undocumented students in pursuing further education, even when money seems impossible. If completing the FAFSA and receiving federal assistance is not typically an option, then scholarships fill the void.
They allow students to pursue their dreams, contribute to their communities, and inspire others to strive for success.
Want to learn about how these scholarships are structured and find some you’re eligible for? Read on for an easy-to-follow guide to getting started.
How Do I Qualify for Scholarships for Undocumented Students?
In order to qualify for an undocumented student scholarship, you’ll typically need to confirm your status as an undocumented resident. Some scholarships simply ask you to self-identify, but others may ask for documentation, such as verification of participation in DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) if that’s the case for you.
Forms of ID that can be accepted include:
Consular ID cards
Driver’s licenses
Municipal or community ID cards
These forms of ID are your initial step towards being able to secure scholarship funding.
Then, you’ll have to fulfill any additional application requirements, such as completing essays, sharing your GPA, or sending in recommendation letters.
Some financial assistance programs—such as Individual Development Accounts (IDAs)—do not require extensive applications, but most scholarships will require materials to assist in selecting the most qualified candidates. With funds being limited, it’s best to get your applications underway early to have your best chance of success.
How Scholarships Can Help You Achieve Your Goals
Scholarships for undocumented students such as yourself can be life-altering, providing you with access to higher learning and a better life. A college education means acquiring valuable skills, opening doors to career opportunities, and achieving financial independence. In the absence of access to conventional aid such as FAFSA, scholarships are your ticket to beating financial obstacles. They enable you to pursue your dreams, make a positive impact in your community, and inspire others to follow your footsteps. With proper support, there is nothing you cannot achieve.
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