Scholarships for Undocumented Immigrants in the U.S.: Complete List 2026
Education Funding for Undocumented Students — More Options Than You Think
Being undocumented does not bar you from higher education or financial aid. While federal financial aid (FAFSA) is unavailable, a substantial ecosystem of private scholarships, state programs, and institutional aid exists specifically for undocumented students.
State-Level Aid Programs
Over 20 states now offer in-state tuition and/or state financial aid to undocumented students, including California (AB 540/Cal Dream Act), Texas (HB 1403), New York, Illinois, Washington, and Oregon. Check your state’s higher education agency for current eligibility rules.
Private Scholarships for Undocumented Students
- TheDream.US — up to $33,000 for DACA and TPS recipients
- Golden Door Scholars — full scholarships for undocumented students at partner universities
- Hispanic Scholarship Fund — available to some undocumented students
- Mexican American Legal Defense Fund (MALDEF) — scholarship programs
- United We Dream scholarships — multiple funding sources
- College-specific aid — many universities offer institutional aid regardless of status; check directly with your target schools
How to Search for Scholarships
- Use Scholarships.com and Fastweb with undocumented/DACA filters
- Contact your state’s Dream Resource Center
- Ask your college’s financial aid office directly about institutional aid for undocumented students
DACA Students Have Additional Options
DACA recipients qualify for in-state tuition in most states, some state financial aid programs, and work authorization — which allows on-campus and off-campus employment to help fund education.
Apply now: Visit TheDream.US and your state’s Dream Act program page to check eligibility and deadlines this semester.
