Top Scholarships for Undocumented Students
The Importance of DACA and Undocumented Scholarships in Higher Education
The pursuit of higher education is a transformative journey that promises personal growth, career opportunities, and the ability to contribute meaningfully to society. However, for undocumented students and those under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, this path is fraught with unique financial and legal obstacles. Scholarships tailored to these students are not merely financial aids; they are crucial instruments of empowerment and inclusion.
Overcoming Financial Barriers
Undocumented students are typically ineligible for federal financial aid, and only a few states offer state grants to these individuals. This creates a significant financial barrier to accessing higher education. Scholarships designed for undocumented and DACA students provide essential funding that enables them to pursue their academic goals without the burden of insurmountable debt.
Access to Higher Education
DACA has been a beacon of hope for many young immigrants, granting them temporary protection from deportation and the ability to work legally in the United States. However, the program does not address the high cost of college tuition. Scholarships specifically for DACA recipients help bridge this gap, making college a viable option for thousands of Dreamers.
Comprehensive Resources and Support
Organizations and resources dedicated to supporting undocumented students offer a wealth of information on scholarships and other forms of support. These resources are invaluable for navigating the complex landscape of higher education funding and for finding opportunities tailored to the needs of undocumented and DACA students. That’s why we put together this list specifically for Undocumented/DACA students.
1. Golden Door Scholarship
Description: The Golden Door Scholarship offers substantial financial assistance for college, along with career and fellowship support, mentorship, and opportunities for community building, specifically designed for high-achieving undocumented students.
Eligibility: 3.2 GPA
Amount: Varies
Deadline: Varies
2. The National College Match Scholarship
Description: The QuestBridge National College Match serves as a route to prestigious colleges. By participating in this application process, you can apply without charge to the country's top colleges, gaining the chance for early admission and a complete four-year scholarship.
Eligibility: Open to those ranking in the top 5-10% of their graduating class.
Amount: Full Tuition
Deadline: September 26th, 2024
3. Davis-Putter Scholarship Fund
Description: The Davis-Putter Scholarship Fund offers financial assistance to students actively engaged in progressive movements advocating for liberation, self-determination, and social and economic justice within their communities.
Eligibility: Applicants must be actively involved in movements for progressive social change, enrolled in a degree, trade, or training program, and demonstrate financial need.
Amount: $15,000
Deadline: April 1st, 2024
4. National Scholarship
Description: Our National Scholarship is akin to the "Pell Grant" for exceptionally driven undocumented students who qualify for in-state tuition in their state of residence.
Eligibility: Must have arrived in the United States before turning 16.
Amount: Varies
Deadline: February 29th, 2024
5. Beauty & Wellness Professionals Scholarship
Description: The BeautySchoolsDirectory.com team takes pride in providing a scholarship for individuals, both students and professionals, who are making a positive impact on others' lives through wellness and beauty.
Eligibility: Full-time or part-time students
Amount: $2,500
Deadline: March 1st, 2024
6. New Beginnings Immigrant Scholarship
Description: The New Beginnings Immigrant Scholarship assists immigrant students in pursuing their educational objectives.
Eligibility: Open to high school seniors, undergraduates, and trade school students.
Amount: $500
Deadline: June 20th, 2024
7. AWS Foundation National Scholarships
Description: These scholarships aim to acknowledge and assist exceptional students, empowering them to pursue their educational aspirations and actively contribute to the advancement of their country.
Eligibility: Open to students currently enrolled in vocational schools, technical colleges, community colleges, or universities.
Amount: $2,500
Deadline: March 1st, 2024
8. DoSomething.org Scholarship
Description: Participate in advocacy by sending a letter to your state representative, urging them to allocate resources to STEM education and programs.
Eligibility: Open to individuals under 26 years old with no minimum GPA requirement.
Amount: $1,000
Deadline: April 1st, 2024
9. Women Scholarship
Description: Empowering high school women and non-binary individuals to embark on a career in the technology industry.
Eligibility: Must have a high school GPA of 3.0 or above and be pursuing a STEM field.
Amount: $5,000
Deadline: March 13th, 2024
10. The LAGRANT Foundation Scholarship
Description: The LAGRANT Foundation aims to facilitate opportunities for minorities by offering essential resources and tools that may not be readily accessible to many entering the fields of advertising, marketing, and public relations.
Eligibility: Must have a minimum of 3.0 GPA
Amount: $2,500
Deadline: February 29th, 2024
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