College Resources for Undocumented Immigrant Students in NY

College Access Workshops and Training

We offer college access workshops and other types of training on how to support undocumented students. Bring us to your classroom!

Going to College if You’re Undocumented

Step 1: learn about In-State Tuition in New York

Undocumented students who reside in New York may be eligible to pay the NY resident tuition rate as long as they fulfill one of the following requirements:

  • They were enrolled in CUNY for the Fall 2001 semester, and qualified for in-state tuition at that time; or

  • They attended a New York State high school for two or more years, graduated, and applied to attend a CUNY institution within five years of receiving a New York State diploma; or

  • They attended an approved New York State program for the General Educational Development (GED) exam preparation, received a GED from New York State, and applied to attend a CUNY institution within five years of receiving the New York State GED. GED holders who graduated from High School either in the United States or overseas are not eligible for this benefit.

  • After you’re accepted, to get in-state tuition, undocumented immigrants must file a Residency Form, which includes an affidavit stating that they have applied to legalize their status, OR that they will apply to do so as soon as they are eligible. Ask your college for a residency form.

Step 2: Learn about the New york Dream Act

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Apply for the New York Dream Act Now!

The New York Dream Act is a law that allows some undocumented students to apply for state funds to help pay for college. Undocumented students can apply for state aid (TAP), city funds for education (like ace, asap etc) and any scholarship funded by the state (like excelsior). Undocumented students should also apply for private scholarships as well as TAP because sometimes it is not enough to just apply for TAP.