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YLC Education Manual
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The Road to College
A College Guide for New York Immigrant Students
brought to you by:
the New York State
Youth Leadership Council
nysylc.org
Table of Contents
Why Go to College? _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 1
Graduating High School _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 4
Road to College _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 7
Action Plan _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 7
Thinking About College: Where Do I Start? _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 9
Testing _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 11
Applying to College _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 12
College Application Requirements _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 13
Final Choice _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 15
Higher Education & Immigrant Students Without Status _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 16
Paying for College _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 19
What Now? Pass the DREAM Act _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 27
Give Back & Get Active! _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 28
Resources _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 29
Why Go to College?
Many years ago, a high school diploma • Low engagement of parents
was enough to get a secure, living-wage • Regents and other requirements are
job—a job that paid well and provided a challenge for recent immigrant
enough to take care of yourself and your students who have not had the same
family. Now, changes in our economy foundation and preparation as their
have made college and even advanced peers.
degrees one of the only vehicles for a
successful future in the U.S. • Some students are “Students with
Interrupted Formal Education,” in other
Despite this fact, according to the 2007 words, students who did not go to
American Community Survey, only 27.5 school regularly or at all in their home
percent of the population 25 years and countries.
older have a Bachelor’s degree or higher.
If you are an undocumented student,
In NYC, just over 50% of recent remember that although undocumented
immigrant students drop out of high students do not have access to state and
school before graduation. federal financial aid, you have the right
Students drop out for some of the to attend a college or university in New
following reasons: York.
• Language barriers But aren’t I just wasting valuable
• Standard testing and assessment time studying when I could be out
working and making money?
• Poverty, the need to drop out and
work to support themselves and their Take a look at this: The average college
families graduate with a Bachelor’s degree will
earn over $35,000 more per year than
• Loss of hope due to immigration status
someone who dropped out of high
• Attend schools that are school.
underperforming and have few
That’s over $1.5 million over a lifetime in
resources
additional earnings. This difference gets
• Often denied basic educational even larger with masters and professional
services degrees.
1
Why Go to College?
As you can see, making sacrifices now has a big pay off for your future.
2
Why Go to College?
Why should I go to college and get Remember that across the world, there
a degree if I don’t have papers? is a global need for college educated
individuals who speak more than one
Even if you are undocumented, language—especially if one of them is
having a college degree can open up English. But be careful not to lose sight of
opportunities for getting a good job with the ultimate goal of education, which is to
decent pay and working conditions— reach your highest potential and be able
even if you are not able to work in the to better contribute to society.
field that you studied in college. Getting
a college education would enhance your Your immigration status is only another
knowledge and skills and empower you obstacle that you will be better able to
to assert your rights. overcome with a college education. As
Nelson Mandela, a South African civil
What will I do with a college rights leader said:
degree without papers?
If you are still undocumented upon NOTE
college graduation, you can explore
“Education is the most powerful
opportunities to continue your education
weapon which you can use to
and pursue an advanced degree. Some change the world.”
of our students have been able to enroll
in advanced degree programs after
finishing 4 years of college, while they
wait for their immigration case to be
considered or until congress changes
immigration laws.
3
Graduating High School
The first step toward going to college Regents Diploma with Honors
is getting a high school diploma. To
graduate in New York State, students The “with honors” designation is added
need to meet the following requirements: to either Regents Diploma option for
students with an average score of 90
1 Pass Regents Exams in required or more on all required Regents exams.
subjects Honors or Advanced Regents diplomas
2 Pass Required Classes to Accumulate are not required to get into college,
44 Credits but they will help you get into more
competitive programs.
For high school graduation, New York
State grants 3 levels of diploma: Regents Diploma with Technical
Local Diploma: Passing score of 55-64 Endorsement
on required Regents Exams Students enrolled in a Career and
Regents Diploma: Passing score of 65 Technical Education program earn this
and above on required Regents Exams endorsement if they also complete an
approved technical assessment, a work-
Regents Diploma with Advanced
based learning experience, and a work-
Designation: Passing score of 65 and
skills employability profile.
above on required Regents Exams PLUS
Math B Exam, an additional Regents Immigrant Students and
Science Exam, and a Regents Foreign Regents Exams
Language Exam
For immigrant students still learning
Adapted from NYS Higher Education
English, most Regents exams are
Services Corporation
available in Spanish, Chinese, Haitian
Creole, Korean and Russian (except
the English Regents). Oral translation
Regents Exams is provided to students who speak a
language other than these five. (Keep
The following Regents exams are required in mind that it might not be necessarily
for all levels of diploma: easier to answer in your own language).
• English Language Arts
• Math A
• Global History
• US History
• Science
4
Graduating High School
Local or Regents Diploma
ATTENTION NYC HIGH
Foreign Language: 2 credits
SCHOOL STUDENTS
Physical Education: 4 credits
Beginning 2010, most New (a semester is valued at _ credit)
York City students in public high
schools will have to get a Regents Regents Diploma with
diploma in order to graduate. Advanced Designation
Local diplomas will no longer be
an option. Electives: 2 credits
(Additional arts or foreign
Language,Technology)
Pass Required Classes to
Physical Education: 4 credits
Accumulate 44 Credits
(a semester is valued at _ credit)
Each time you complete and pass
a course for one semester, you are But my school is telling me that I
awarded one credit (one semester = half could drop out and get a GED!
a year). You are eligible for graduation First, an important fact: students have the
when you have received 44 credits. right to attend public school in New York
High school students must get 31 credits City until the age of 21. Prior to this age,
in core courses and 13 additional courses. no one has the right to instruct you to
leave school.
Core Courses
Getting a GED, General Education
English: 8 credits Development test, must be a personal
Social Studies: 8 credits choice that you make, hopefully after
Math: 6 credits consulting with your parents, family,
Science: 6 credits guidance counselor and or teacher.
Health: 1 credit
In making this decision, it is important to
Arts: 2 credits
know the difference between a GED and
Additional Courses a high school diploma.
Additional courses credits vary depending
on the level of diploma. The additional
courses include: Foreign Language,
Physical Education, and Electives.
5
Graduating High School
Who is eligible to take the GED?
KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
Any NYS resident, 16 years of age or
You have the right to attend older is eligible to take the GED.
school in NYC until the age of 21,
regardless of immigration status, For more information about eligibility
credits earned or any other factor. requirements, please visit the General
If you are told to leave school Educational Development Testing Office
before the age of 21, please Website. You can find the website on our
call Advocates for Children’s FREE resource section.
Education Helpline at 866-427-6033.
What if I didn’t attend high school
in the U.S?
What is the GED?
If that is your case, don’t worry, you can
GED stands for General Educational
still take the GED as long as you are able
Development. It is a kind of a diploma
to fulfill the other eligibility requirements.
for students who did not complete high
Make sure that you visit the General
school. You obtain a GED by taking
Educational Development Testing Office
a test.
Website for detailed information.
What’s the difference between a
In which languages is the
high school diploma and a GED?
test offered?
A GED is an equivalent to a high school
The test is available in English, Spanish
diploma, but it is not the same. Having
and French.
a high school diploma opens up many
more options for higher education. Some How is the test structured?
schools do not accept first-year students
who do not have a high school diploma. The test is broken down into five parts:
However, that doesn’t mean that the Writing, Reading, Social Studies,
GED option should be completely off Science and Math. If you don’t pass all
the table for all students. Talk it over with five sections, you must take the test again.
your parents, teachers and guidance For more information about the GED,
counselors to see if it’s the best choice check our resources section on page 31.
for you.
6
Road to College
Do volunteer work. Colleges like
Action Plan that you have made a meaningful
contribution to something that
interests you.
Freshman Year (9th Grade)
Update your personal file with
Earn good grades in all of
materials and information at the end
your classes.
of each semester.
Improve your English skills. Read
Identify what you want in a school.
interesting books, magazines and
newspapers. Keep a journal and Look for schools, visit campuses.
write daily entries. Speak English with Talk to your guidance counselor about
your friends even if they speak your attending college.
native language.
Begin preparing for the SAT
Get involved in extracurricular activities. and/or ACT.
Create a personal file with items Develop Relationships with your
such as: teachers, advisors, or guidance
• Copy of report cards counselor.
• Certificates and awards presented Sign up for challenging courses such as
to you AP classes and College Now classes.
• A list of your extracurricular
activities and volunteer work
TIP
including length of service.
It is especially important for
Develop relationships with undocumented students to develop
your teachers. a group of teachers and friends that
can provide you support through
Sophomore Year (10th Grade) the process of applying to college.
Keep your grades up.
Take the PSAT.
Summer
Think about joining two or three
activities after school. Colleges are Join a summer program, do volunteer
looking for commitment to and a work or pursue an internship in an
passion for activities outside of the area of interest.
academic setting.
7
Road to College
Contact us for more information on Visit colleges that you are interested in
places where you can join applying to.
summer programs. Work on the common application
Junior Year (11th Grade) and your personal statement.
Maintain a strong academic average. Senior Year (12th Grade)
Very important!!!
Your grades will continue to count this
Continue with your extracurricular
year. Work hard!
activities and volunteer service.
(Try for leadership positions). Meet with your counselor to finalize
your college list.
Attend college fairs.
November is your last chance to take
Ask your teachers about their
the SAT I.
college experiences and what
colleges they attended. Continue with your extracurricular
activities and volunteer work.
Meet with your counselor to discuss
college plans. Develop an initial list of Meet with college representatives and
10 -15 colleges where you may be make college visits.
interested in applying. Schedule campus or alumni interviews.
Research different majors and careers. Finish college applications by your
Take the SAT I in May so that you can counselor’s deadline.
retake it if your scores are low. File for financial aid after January 1st.
Take SAT Subject Tests in June. Pick You will receive college decision
two subjects in which you feel you letters around April and deposits are
will excel. usually due in May.
Pass the English Regents.
Attention Young Men
Research different scholarships.
Men living in the U.S. between the ages
As for letters of recommendation from of 18 and 26 who are U.S. Citizens,
your counselor and teachers. Lawful Permanent Residents, Asylees,
Refugees and men without immigration
Summer
status, are required to register for
Continue with your volunteer work, Selective Service, more commonly known
attend a college summer program as the Draft. The Draft gives the U.S.
for high school students or get a job government a list of names of men from
or internship. which to draw in case of a national
emergency requiring rapid expansion of
our Armed Forces.
8
Road to College
You can register for the Draft online Explore other payment options such
by going to www.sss.gov. If you are as a payment plan, a loan from a
undocumented, you must register by mail. relative, or attending school part-time
Draft registration forms are available at
any U.S Post Office. If you don’t have a
Social Security Number, leave the space Thinking about College
blank. Even if you did not register when
you turned 18, as long as you are under
Congratulations on graduating high
26, you can still register.
school. All your hard work so far has
If you are undocumented, it is important really paid off. You are on your way to
that you register for the Draft because achieving your dreams, whatever they
when you become eligible to become may be. Remember to take a moment
a U.S. citizen, you may be barred from and reflect on this important milestone
doing so for failure to register. and be sure to celebrate.
You’ve earned it!
Here are some tips for you Parents!
Questions to consider
Ask Questions about your
• Big or small school?
children’s dreams
• Close to home or far away?
Have conversations about going
to college • Public or private?
Be involved in your child’s education: • Tuition, housing, and other costs
attend PTA meetings, talk to their • Availability of scholarships and
teachers, ask them how they are financial aid
doing in school.
• Choice of major/areas of interest
Support your son or daughter’s
dreams. For many students, college is • Availability of other activities (sports,
a time to figure out one’s interests. clubs, student organizations, volunteer
opportunities, etc.)
Go with your children on college trips.
Start saving money; open a savings What is a college degree?
bank account. Ask your bank Bachelors and Associates Degrees: There
representative about the requirements are two basic types of degrees you
if you do not have a social can pursue in college. Bachelor’s and
security number. Associates degrees. When studying full-
Encourage your child to continue his time, students receive a Bachelors degree
or her education. in about four years. Associates degrees
can be completed in as little as two
File your taxes on time (for financial
years. In the CUNY system, Bachelor’s
aid purposes).
9
Road to College
degrees can only be obtained at Senior Colleges and four-year schools known as
Colleges, while students can study Senior Colleges.
toward an Associates degree at Senior or
SUNY: The State University of New
Community Colleges.
York is the public university funded by
Keep in mind that many jobs and NYS. These schools tend to be located
all graduate programs do require a outside of the five boroughs and have
Bachelors (four-year) degree, because of dormitories. Within the SUNY system,
the longer preparation needed for these there are two-year Associate Degree
options. For example, you cannot pursue colleges and four-year Bachelors Degree
a career as a doctor, engineer, lawyer colleges. They are relatively more
or many others with only Associates expensive than CUNY schools, but
(two-year) degree. However, you can still at a much lower cost than private
begin with an Associates degree from a universities.
Community College or another institution
For more information on CUNY and
and then continue on to a Bachelor’s
SUNY visit their websites—you can find
degree and beyond.
them in our Resources section.
Dual Degree Programs: In dual degree
Private Universities: Private universities
programs, students study for two
are not government-funded. They are
different degrees at the same time, either
much more expensive than the CUNY
at the same college or at a different
and SUNY systems. Depending on
school. These programs usually take
the school, they may offer programs,
less time than it would take to earn the
housing options, student activities or
degrees separately.
other amenities that public colleges do
not offer. Some examples of private
What’s the difference between
universities in NYC include New York
CUNY, SUNY & Private Universities?
University, Columbia University and
The higher education system in the U.S is Pace University.
two fold: public vs. private. In New York
for example, there are public colleges Once I attend my college for some
that are funded by the city, state and time, can I transfer to another?
federal government. The city’s college
Yes. There are different reasons for
system is known as CUNY, the City
changing schools. Maybe the school
University of New York, and the state’s
you’re in doesn’t have the major you’re
college system is SUNY, State University
looking for, or maybe you can only
of New York.
receive an Associates there. You might
CUNY: City University of New York is the also just need a change. It’s important
public university in NYC. It is made up of to keep in mind that transferring will
17 colleges throughout the five boroughs. probably involve some work and a lot of
Within the CUNY system, there are care to make sure that the application is
two-year colleges known as Community complete and has all the necessary parts.
10
Road to College
When transferring to a new college or
university, be sure to check the school’s Testing
policy on application fees. For example,
when transferring within the CUNY
system, the $70 fee is not required. Also,
What is the PSAT and should I
check your potential new school’s policy
take it?
on credit transfers, being that some of the The PSAT (Pre-Scholastic Achivement Test)
classes you have taken may not count is a preliminary exam for the SAT’s and
toward your degree in your new school. it is not required for college admission.
However, it is a helpful method of
In the CUNY system, any student who
preparation for the SAT and can qualify
graduated from a Community College
you for some great merit scholarships.
with an Associates degree is given a
So yes, take it if you can as a method
chance to complete a Bachelors degree
of practice and a chance to win some
at a Senior College, applying the first
college bucks!
two years of credits earned at Community
College toward that degree. This allows What is the SAT & ACT and why
students to complete their Bachelors should I take it?
degree in an additional two years.
The SAT (Scholastic Achievement Test) is
Programs available: In some Community
an exam that tests critical thinking skills
Colleges there are vocational training
and is used along with other factors
programs. However, you will not find
by colleges everywhere as part of the
these programs at a Senior College.
application process. It gives the colleges
Likewise is also true: many specific
an idea on how you will do in your future
academic departments and courses of
college education and you should take
study available at Senior Colleges are
it in order to apply for these institutions.
not options at Community Colleges.
Most college applications will not accept
your application without it.
NOTE The ACT (American College Test) is an
For financial aid and scholarships exam that tests specific subjects learned
it is often required that you in high school, such as science, math etc.
maintain full-time student status. It is usually not required but some colleges
Please see our financial aid section do ask for such exams, especially if you
for more information. are applying to a specific program.
Check with the schools of your choice
to find out which test they require. Some
colleges accept either one.
11
Road to College
When can you take the SAT or Fee waivers
the ACT? Fee waivers for college applications or
These tests are given many times during SAT registration are open to students who
the year. You need to register about five are either American citizens or foreign
weeks before you plan to take them. For nationals who are applying in the United
more information and to register for the States, Puerto Rico, or U.S. territories.
test, go to the College Board website. Eligibility is determined by family income
or by participation in a public assistance
Where do you take the tests? programs, free-lunch and other programs
for economically disadvantaged families.
Test centers are usually in local schools.
The income guidelines are based on
How can I prepare? those of the federal free and reduced-
price lunch program.
• Get a Study Guide from your
Private colleges and other universities
Guidance Counselor or a public
also have their own guidelines for
library.
application waivers so make sure you
• Take a course (low-cost options check with their admissions counselor for
available), Give examples of study an application and with your own high
prep courses school guidance/college advisor.
• Study Vocabulary words
• Do a lot of reading
• Take Practice SAT tests!
Are there fees to take the SAT
and ACT?
The fee for the SAT is $43. The ACT costs
$30. There are fee waivers available,
based on family income. If you qualify for
free lunch in your school, you can get a
fee waiver or request one specifically from
your guidance counselor.
For links to additional information on all of
these questions, see the Resources Section.
[i] “College application fee waivers.” www.
collegeboard.com. June 17, 2008. [http://
professionals.collegeboard.com/guidance/
applications/fee-waivers
12
Applying to College
Test Scores
College Application Depending on the college you are
Requirements applying, you may have to submit your
SAT, SAT Subject test, or ACT test scores.
Application Form For example, CUNY senior colleges
require SAT Scores, while the community
The application form has all your basic colleges don’t. Make sure to review the
information. You can submit the same application requirements carefully and
application form to all CUNY schools. All consult your college advisor to find out
SUNY schools use the same application what test scores are required.
form as well. For private schools, you
have to get their respective application Personal Statement
form—you can get it online, ask the
You are usually required to write a
school to mail it to you, or pick it up from
personal essay for your application.
the school itself if you live in the area.
This gives the school an opportunity to
get to know you better while they see
TIP your writing ability. Depending on the
Make sure to talk to your college school, you may be asked to talk about
advisor to figure out the best way an important experience that has shaped
to fill out the application forms. who you are, why you are applying to
that school, or some other general topic.
Make sure you have a few friends and
Application Fee teachers look over your essay and
For CUNY and SUNY, you don’t have to give feedback.
pay an application fee for each college
that you apply to. You pay a one time Letters of Recommendation
application fee with your respective Schools usually ask for letters of
CUNY or SUNY application form. The
recommendation. When asking adults
application fee for each private
to write your letters, you should choose
school varies.
very carefully. Select people who know
High School Transcript you best and who would best be able to
speak to your character, accomplishments
College Admissions Offices will review work ethic, and potential for the future.
all the courses you took in high school Teachers, guidance counselors, mentors
and their respective grades. All this or even employers are some examples of
information is on your high school people who can write letters for you.
transcript.
13
Applying to College
application. The rules may sometimes
WARNING vary depending on the college. Check
with your counselor to make sure you
Don’t ask family members for letters
understand your rights and obligations.
of recommendation
Early decision plans are binding. This
means that you commit to attend the
Extracurricular Activities,
college if you are accepted. Although
Leadership & Community Service
you can apply with early decision to
It is very important that you get involved only one college, you may apply to other
in student clubs and community service colleges through the regular admissions
activities. Although this is not part of the process. If your early decision school
college application requirements, taking accepts you, you must attend that
leadership roles will help you to grow school, unless you can prove that the
as an individual and make you stand financial aid package they offered you
out from the rest of students applying to is insufficient and will cause financial
college. By participating in clubs and hardship. Usually, colleges insist on a
community service organizations, you nonrefundable deposit well before May 1.
provide the admissions office a better
Early action plans are similar but are
sense of who you are, your potential, and
not binding, unlike early decision. If
what you will bring to the college. Also
you’ve been accepted, you can choose
keep in mind that a lot of scholarships
to commit to the college immediately, or
and awards that will boost your
wait until the spring. Under these plans,
college application are based on your
you may also apply early action to other
participation in clubs, leadership and
colleges. Usually, you have until the
community service.
late spring to let the college know your
decision.
TIP Single-choice early action is a new option
offered by a few colleges. This plan
Be sure to send all parts of the
application and get it in on time! works the same way as other early action
plans, but candidates may not apply
early (either early action or early decision)
Application Types: to any other school. You can still apply to
Early Action and Early Decision other schools and are not required to give
your final answer of acceptance until the
Some schools will give you the option to
regular decision deadline.
indicate Early Action or Early Decision on
your application, usually in November. Confused? Here’s a chart to help you on
However, it is important to know the the next page!
differences between early decision and
early action before sending in your
14
Applying to College
Can apply early Can apply to other colleges
Binding
to other colleges under regular admissions
Early Decision Yes* No Yes
Early Action No Yes Yes
Single-Choice Early Action No No Yes
*unless you can prove financial hardship
Waiting list?
Final Choice
Do not be discouraged if the school of
your choice wait lists you. It simply means
Accepted? they did not have enough space to offer
Congratulations! Your acceptance letters you a seat and want to hold on to you
and financial aid offers should arrive by until more space becomes available.
mid-April, unless you applied early. The best thing to do is decide if you
really want to attend the school before
Compare colleges and see which one fits
you agree to remain on the waiting list.
you best. When you make your decision,
Maybe you want to attend a school that
be sure to respond on time to confirm
has already accepted you. Ask for the
your acceptance. Oftentimes students
terms on which you are wait listed. There
choose to go to the first school that accepts
are often deadlines or housing options
them without considering the other schools
that change and you need to be aware
that may be offering better packages.
of them.
Make sure the school you accept is the
best choice for you. Here are some things
Rejected?
to keep in mind in comparing schools and
their offers:
Breathe and realize that that school may
• What are the financial aid and not be the right fit for you. Seeking higher
scholarship packages? education is the ultimate goal here and
any college of your choice will take you
• How much can my family and I
where you want to go so long as you
afford?
work hard for it. They are losing out on
• How much debt am I going to have a great young mind and another college
when I get out of school? out there is anxious to have you there with
• Does it have a good job them. Don’t take the rejection too much
placement program? to heart. Look at your other choices and
continue on to a great college life.
15
Higher Education &
Immigrant Students without Status
According to the Urban Institute, it is Immigration Status and
estimated that between 60,000 and In-State Tuition
65,000 students without immigration
status graduate high school in the U.S. In the following 11 states in the U.S.,
every year. undocumented students are able to pay the
in-state tuition rate when going to college.
Immigrant students without immigration
status cannot work legally, receive • California
financial aid, some scholarships, or join • Illinois
the military. If this is your case, don’t lose
• Kansas
hope, you will be able to go to college
and apply for scholarships that allow • Nebraska
undocumented applicants. • New Mexico
Types of Tuition • New York
In-State Tuition: the tuition rate paid • Oklahoma
at public universities by students who • Texas
can prove residence in that state. For
example, if you live and attend to school • Utah
in NY you are considered a NY resident. • Washington
Out-of-state and international tuition fees: • Wisconsin
Out-of-state tuition rates are much higher
In other states, including New Jersey,
than in-state tuition. Students who attend
undocumented students must pay out-of-
college in a state different from the one
state or international student tuition rates.
where they graduated high school or
obtained their GED are considered Whether a state offers in-state tuition
out-of-state students. International fees or not, undocumented students are not
are also much higher than in-state-tuition, eligible for federal or state financial aid,
sometimes 5 times higher. Students and cannot work legally to pay for
considered international are those coming their education.
from a different country to study in the You are only eligible for in-state tuition in
U.S. with a student visa. the state where you obtained your GED
or High School Diploma, not necessarily
in any other state that may offer
in-state tuition.
16
Higher Education &
Immigrant Students without Status
Am I eligible for in-state In order to claim residency status for
tuition rates? tuition purposes, undocumented
students must:
Non-resident tuition for state colleges and
universities is significantly higher than in- • File affidavit state that s/he has filed or
state tuition. In New York , undocumented will file application for legal residence
students are eligible for in-state tuition if • Show proof of domicile (rent checks,
you meet the following requirements: pay stubs with a NY address, high
• You have attended for at least school records, etc.)
two years and graduated from an It is important that your school be aware
approved New York State high school of your legal status in order that you may
and apply for attendance at a SUNY, qualify for resident tuition rates. Check to
CUNY, state-operated, or community make sure that you are not classified as
college within five years of receiving a an international student, as international
high school diploma, or students are charged higher tuition costs.
• You have attended an approved Here’s a sample of the Required Affidavit
New York State program for General for Undocumented Students The affidavit
Equivalency Diploma preparation, must be notarized stating that you have
received a GED issued in New York either filed an application to fix your
State , and applied for attendance at immigration status or will file such an
a SUNY, CUNY, state-operated, or application as soon as you are eligible
community college within five years of to do so.
graduating high school
Affidavit of Intent to Legalize Immigration Status
(student’s name), being duly sworn, deposes and says that he/she
does not currently have a lawful immigration status but, has filed an application to
legalize his/her immigration status or will file such an application as soon as he/
she is eligible to do so.
(student’s signature)
Sworn to me this (day) of (month) of (year)
State of New York, County of (ie. Queens, Nassau, Kings, etc.)
Remember, this affidavit is simply stating that when you become eligible you will apply
to gain immigration status.
17
Higher Education &
Immigrant Students without Status
How do I answer questions about
my immigration status and Social
NOTE
Security number?
You are not an international student
Students who are asked about their when you are undocumented
immigration status should NEVER lie on
their college applications. If you are not
a U.S. Citizen or a Lawful Permanent Do private colleges and universities
Resident/Green Card holder, do not say accept students without
that you are. When asked what your immigration status?
immigration status is, you can simply write
Every private college and university
“none” or “not qualified.”
determines its own policy for students
No applicant is required to submit a Social who are out-of-status. You can call the
Security number (SSN). If you do not have admissions office and ask about its
an SSN, leave the question blank. policies for students without immigration
If you have a Social Security card that status. Some schools have more flexible
states that you are not work authorized or policies than others.
that you are work authorized only with an
employment authorization document, the
TIP
SSN is still a valid number – even if you
have no work permit – and should If you are nervous about calling,
ask a friend or guidance counselor
be included.
to ask for you.
Will the school report me to
the federal government if I am
undocumented?
Colleges and Universities are not required
to call Immigration Services to inform
them about students without immigration
status. Colleges are required to report
information to immigration authorities
about international students who have
student visas.
18
Paying for College
to be accepted to a higher education
Financial Aid institution to apply for aid. You can apply
for financial aid any time after January 1.
To actually receive funds, you must be
Federal and state financial aid is not
admitted and enrolled at the university.
available to undocumented immigrant
students; most of the following information You have to apply for financial aid every
applies to immigrants with immigration year, meaning you have to fill out the
status (legal permanent residence FAFSA every year. After your first year
or citizenship). you will receive a “Renewal Application”
which has information from the previous
year’s FAFSA. Your eligibility for financial
TIP aid may change significantly, especially
If you talk to someone by phone if you have a different number of family
about your financial aid, keep members in college.
written notes of your conversation, About 4 weeks after you send in the
including the person’s name, FAFSA form, you will receive the Student
telephone number, and date.
Aid Report (SAR). Make sure all the
information is correct. This report lists the
Many programs and scholarships are expected contributions from your parents.
only open for U.S citizen students. If your In other words, it’s the amount the
parents are already legal permanent U.S government expects your family to pay.
residents, you should find out if they are The difference between your expected
eligible to apply for citizenship. If they family contributions (EFC) and the cost
do, we recommend that they apply so of college is the amount of aid you will
that you can become a U.S. citizen too. need. The school you plan to attend will
use this information to prepare a financial
Typically, Financial Aid comes in
package for you.
three forms:
Renewal of your financial aid package
• Scholarships and grants
also depends on your making satisfactory
• Work-Study programs academic progress toward a degree,
• Loans such as earning a minimum number of
credits and achieving a minimum GPA.
FAFSA
After mailing the FAFSA form, you will
To apply for financial aid you will need receive a letter in about 3-4 weeks stating
to submit the Free Application for Federal that your information does not match
Student Aid (FAFSA).You don’t have Federal Financial Aid records. Don’t
19
Paying for College
panic! This is ok, disregard this notice, it
does not affect you in any way—it is only Scholarships & Grants
proof that you submitted the FAFSA.
In some cases, public or private colleges This symbol indicates that the
may ask you to fill out the FAFSA as part scholarship is available to
of a scholarship requirement. In this case, undocumented students.
you should fill out but make sure that
Grants and scholarships are financial
school is aware of your immigration status.
awards for your tuition that don’t have to
Undocumented Students and be repaid.
the FAFSA The U.S. government funds two of the
Undocumented students do not need to fill largest grant programs:
out the FAFSA, unless they are applying • Federal Pell Grant:
for the Peter V. Vallone Scholarship, which
• Federal Supplemental Educational
we discuss more in detail in pg. 21. If you
Opportunity Grant
have to fill out the FAFSA, you must apply
via mail—not online. You can leave the Some states also offer grants.
Social Security Number space blank Most grants and scholarships come from
and only fill out your basic information. colleges or private sources such as:
When asked about your citizenship and
immigration status, you should check the • Community Service Groups
option that says, “No, I am not a citizen • Religious Groups
or eligible citizen.”
• Private Companies
• Employers
TIP
• Institutional Grants (colleges,
Save your Parent’s FAFSA PIN
universities)
and password in a safe place and
choose a password that is easy Keep in mind that is possible to be
to remember awarded more than one scholarship
or grant. There are lots of scholarships
out there so make sure to do your own
research. Check our Resource page for
places where you can start your research!
20
Paying for College
Peter Vallone New York City • Attend CUNY before attending any
Council academic scholarship other post secondary institution
Established by the New York City In order to keep the scholarship
Council, the Vallone Scholarship rewards you must
high school graduates
• Maintain continuous full-time enrollment
How to Qualify within the City University of New
• Graduate from a NYC public or private York system
high school with a “B” average or • You must maintain a cumulative GPA
better and enroll directly into a CUNY of 3.0 or higher
college within a year of graduation.
• In your first semester at least six credit
• Maintain a “B” average or better and hours of your full-time enrollment must
receive up to $1,000 a year for five be college credit bearing course
years. Associate’s degree students work; Future semesters require at
are eligible for 6 semesters. You may least 12 credit hours of college credit
qualify for additional financial aid, bearing work
based on need.
For more information on this scholarship
and the application form, please check NOTE
our Resources section The award will not not restored once
it has been lost
In the recent years the Vallone Scholarship
has been about $1000 per year.
There is no separate application for the • The award is not restored once it has
scholarship. Students are automatically been lost
considered for the award when they • If you an undocumented student and
apply for admission to CUNY and have all the requirements mentioned
complete a FAFSA every year. above, pay close attention to how you
are supposed to fill out the FAFSA.
To qualify you must
• Most students can fill out the FAFSA
• Complete and submit a FAFSA
on the internet, but undocumented
• Graduate from a New York City high students cannot. Undocumented
school with at least an 80 (B) average students should get the paper
• Enroll at a CUNY college as a full-time application from the financial aid
student within one year of graduating office
from high school • When asked about your Social
• Register as a full-time student each Security Number, leave it blank if you
semester (except summer) and maintain don’t have one
at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA
21
Paying for College
• When asked about your immigration Not be simultaneously enrolled in
status, check the box that says “No, I elementary or secondary school
am not a citizen or eligible citizen”
Be a U.S. citizen or national, or a
• Fill in your address, school information, legal permanent resident
and other required information.
Have a valid Social Security Number
• Mail the form to the specified address. (SSN)
What are Pell Grants and how do Be registered with Selective Service,
they work? if required
Pell Grants are awarded usually only Certify, by signing a Statement of
to undergraduate students who have Educational Purpose, that he or she
not earned a Bachelor’s degree. The will use federal student aid only to
maximum Pell Grant award can change pay for educational costs
each year and depends on program Not owe a payment on a federal
funding. grant or Federal Perkins Loan
Who is Eligible? Not have borrowed in excess of the
annual loan limits
Students with family incomes up to
Not have property that can be taken
$50,000 may be eligible for Pell Grants.
away for a debt owed to the U.S.
However, most Pell awards go to students
with family incomes below $20,000. Be maintaining satisfactory academic
There is no charge to apply for a Federal progress
Pell Grant.
Not have drug convictions
You also must meet the following Students can receive Pell Grants for their
requirements for Federal Aid: undergraduate study until they complete
a baccalaureate or their first advanced
Demonstrate financial need; this
degree, such as pharmacy or dentistry.
means that your cost of education is
greater than what your family can How Much Money Can You Get?
afford
The maximun grant for the 2010 to 2011
Be a regular student enrolled or
school year was $5,500. The minimun
accepted for enrollment in an eligible
amount is usually $400.
program at an eligible institution.
Have a high school diploma or GED How is the Award Determined?
Pass an approved ability to benefit Pell Grants are based on a formula
test (ATB) that is applied in the same way to
all applicants. The formula is revised
22
Paying for College
and approved each year by the U.S. Federal Work Study
Congress. The actual award a student
receives depends on a number of Federal Work-Study (FWS) provides part-
time jobs for students with financial need,
factors including:
allowing them to earn money to help
• The tuition cost. pay education expenses. The program
• The family’s financial situation, how encourages community service work
much your parents can afford to pay and work related to the recipient’s course
for college of study.
• Family size. Federal Perkins Loan
• Whether the student is attending full- A Federal Perkins Loan is a low-interest
time or part-time (5 percent) loan for both undergraduate
and graduate students with exceptional
Federal Supplemental Education financial need. Federal Perkins Loans are
Opportunity Grant made through a school’s financial aid
Federal Supplemental Educational office. Your school is your lender, and the
loan is made with government funds. You
Opportunity Grants (FSEOG) are for
must repay this loan to your school.
undergraduates with exceptional financial
need. Pell Grant recipients with the lowest Your school will either pay you directly
Estimated Family Contribution or EFC (usually by check) or apply your loan to
(will be the first to get FSEOGs. Just like your school charges. You’ll receive the
Pell Grants, FSEOGs don’t have to be loan in at least two payments during the
paid back. academic year.
The Federal Supplemental Educational
How much can I get?
Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), Federal
You can receive between $100 and Work-Study (FWS), and Federal Perkins
$4,000 a year, depending on when you Loan programs are called campus-based
apply, your financial need, the funding programs because they’re administered
at the school you’re attending, and the directly by the financial aid office at each
policies of the financial aid office at participating school. Not all schools
your school. participate in all three programs.
Check with your school’s financial aid
If I am eligible, how will I get the office to find out which programs they
FSEOG money? participate in.
If you’re eligible, your school will credit How much aid you receive from each
your account, pay you directly (usually by of these programs depends on your
check), or combine these methods. financial need, on the amount of other
aid you receive, and on the availability of
funds at your college or career school.
23
Paying for College
Unlike the Federal Pell Grant Program, Federal Supplemental Educational
which provides funds to every eligible Opportunity Grant
student, the campus-based programs
provide a certain amount of funds for Website for more info: http://www.
each participating school to administer fafsa.gov.edu
each year. When the money for a Eligibility: Must be a U.S citizen or
program is gone, no more awards can eligible non citizen
be made from that program for that year.
Basic requirements: Must demonstrate
So, make sure you apply for federal
financial need, considering household of
student aid as early as you can. Each
family and tuition costs. Also, the size of
school sets its own deadlines for campus-
your grant and availability depends on
based funds, and those deadlines are
the school you are attending.
usually earlier than the Department of
Education’s deadline for filing a FAFSA. How much? You can get anywhere from
$100 to about $4000 per year.
Will I need to pay this back? No
AVOID SCHOLARSHIP SCAMS
Never pay a fee for scholarship
money or application information. Loans
Real scholarships never charge
fees, and the information about
applying is available. When you get loans, you will sign a
contract, basically a legal document that
shows that you pledge to repay the debt.
Summary
Federal Pell Grant WARNING
Review a loan’s provision carefully
Website for more info: http://www.
before you accept it. Make sure
ed.gov/programs/fpg/index.html
you understand what you will
Eligibility: Must be a U.S citizen or have to repay and when. Most
eligible non citizen important, do not borrow more
than you need.
Basic requirements: Must demonstrate
financial need, considering household
income, size of family and tuition costs. Other Financial Aid opportunities
for Undocumented Students
How much? You can get anywhere from
$400 to about $4300 per year. CUNY scholarships and opportunities are
open to undocumented students.
Will I need to pay this back? No
Students without immigration status cannot
obtain federally-funded or NYS-funded
24
Paying for College
financial aid. However, students without Lehman College; Queens College; Staten
immigration status can apply for some Island; and Hunter College)
private scholarships and awards to help
them pay for higher education. You may Admission
also be able to get student loans, but they
If you meet the eligibility standards,
are very difficult to obtain.
you must apply by special application,
Payment Plans for Tuition available online at the Macaulay Honors
College Website.
TuitionPay is a plan that allows you
The application deadline is November
to pay your tuition for the semester in
1 for early admission and December 15
interest-free monthly installments. It works
for regular admission. Students applying
well for students and families who cannot
to the Honors college need NOT file a
afford the entire bill at one time.
regular admission application to CUNY.
Under this plan, you still owe the same The Honors College application serves as
amount of tuition, but you have more time the freshman admission application both
to pay and the payments are smaller and to CUNY and the Honors College.
easier to manage.
Eligibility
Scholarships and Awards for
All Students • The Macaulay Honors College admits
only new first-year students.
For a list of scholarships and awards that
• Students in any major may be accepted.
do not depend on immigration status visit
www.maldef.org or www.nysylc.org. • Must have a high school GPA of 94.6
Additionally, on www.fastweb.com you or higher (on a scale of 100).
can fill out a profile indicating that you
• SAT score (math and verbal) of 1395
are undocumented and view scholarship
or higher.
matches that fit.
• demonstrate involvement on
Cuny Honors Programs extracurricular activities and/or
community service
Acceptance to the CUNY Honors
Program in CUNY is also open to • Personal initiative and leadership
undocumented students. The CUNY
• 2 recommendations from teachers or
Honors Program usually pays for the
guidance counselors.
student’s entire tuition.
• Submit an energetic and thought-
Macaulay Honors College provoking essay, answering the
specific question on the application.
(Participating CUNY colleges: Baruch
College; Brooklyn College; City College;
25
Paying for College
Students in the Macaulay Honors Retention Criteria
College receive
• Students are expected to achieve an
• Full-tuition scholarship overall 3.3 G.P.A. by the end of their
first year and a 3.5 G.P.A. by the end
• A study grant of $7,500 to fund
of the second year, which must be
enriching experiences such as study
maintained until graduation.
abroad and service learning away.
In case you missed the deadline for the
• Special interdisciplinary seminars
Macaulay Honors College, do not worry,
using NYC as resource and text.
there is another program some CUNY
• A “cultural passport” providing entree colleges offer, you may be eligible to
to the riches of New York City, apply, called Honors Program.
including concerts, theater, art, science
The requirements and benefits of this
and history museums and galleries.
program may vary depending on the
• Intensive mentoring and advisement college you are applying to. So it
from faculty and dedicated is strongly recommended to visit the
honors advisors. admissions office of the college of your
• First-day registration privileges. choice to know the specifics.
For instance:
Requirements:
• full tuition may not be covered, but
• All honors college students take four you might still get some scholarships or
special interdisciplinary seminars awards from the college.
focusing on NYC and fulfill additional
liberal arts core requirements • A small number of incoming transfer
(depending on their major). and continuing students are admitted
to the program to the discretion of the
• In the upper division (junior and senior director.
years), students may take additional
honors college sponsored courses and If you did not have a chance to apply
must complete a senior project. to the programs previously mentioned,
remember to locate the scholarship office,
• Students must complete an internship information center, welcoming center or
or study abroad program and have office alike, in the college you are planning
a minimum of 30 hours community or to attend, to inquire about awards and
college service over the course of the other opportunities the institution may
four-year program. offer. You may also want to check out our
resources section on page 29, to find out
additional information that can help you
on your road to college.
26
What now?
Pass the DREAM Act!
How can undocumented students The DREAM Act
legalize their status?
The Development, Relief and Education
Currently undocumented students living for Alien Minors Act
in the U.S. can only get immigration
The DREAM Act is legislation that would
status through:
provide a path to citizenship for all
• Family petition system, from which undocumented students who:
you will need to have an immediate
• Have lived in the U.S. for five years
relative who is a US citizen.
or more,
Immediate relatives can petition for
spouses, parents, unmarried children • Arrived in the U.S. before they turned
under the age of 21, and 16, and
widows/widowers. • Demonstrate good moral character.
• Employment sponsorship Upon high school graduation, the
• Refugees/Asylum/Victims of immigrant student could apply for
Domestic Violence conditional residence and have up to six
years to complete one of the following
Keep in mind that there are some high
requirements for unconditional lawful
demand top careers you can pursue that
permanent resident (green card) status:
might facilitate employment sponsorship.
• Graduate from a two-year college; or
• Complete two years towards a four-
NOTE year degree; or
Even if there is no way you can get
• Serve in the U.S. military for two years
your immigration status, there is still
hope. The DREAM Act can provide
a path to legalize your status!
CONGRATULATIONS
ON GOING TO COLLEGE!
You’ve made an excellent choice
to secure a successful future. The
months and years to come may not
be easy, but in the long run you will
be glad that you took this important
step. Good luck!
27
Give Back and Get Active
The New York State Youth Promoting Immigrant Voices in
Leadership Council (YLC) Education (PIVE)
The New York State Youth Leadership Promoting Immigrant Voices in Education
Council provides a great opportunity to (PIVE), an organization that worked to
give back to your community, helping educate immigrant parents on their rights
immigrant youth and the children of in NYC schools, worked closely with
immigrants access higher education, the YLC to develop this guide in its early
while also developing your own stages. Since then, PIVE has become part
leadership skills. Join the YLC and support of the YLC and will now be expanding
our efforts to pass the DREAM Act this our work with immigrant parents. To find
year, and to educate our communities on materials and information for parents,
their rights and opportunities, regardless please visit our website.
of immigration status.
E-mail GetActive@nysylc.org for more
information on how you can get involved!
The YLC promotes the advancement
of immigrant youth and children
of immigrants through leadership
development, organizing and advocacy.
We believe that improving access to
higher education and creating equal
opportunity for immigrant youth are a
means to fulfill our mission.
Our legislative priority is the DREAM
Act, a bill that if passed would allow
immigrant youth who have grown up in
the U.S. to adjust their immigration status
if they meet certain requirements and
complete at least two years of higher
education or military service.
For more information, visit our website at
www.nysylc.org
email us at info@nysylc.org or call us at
212-627-2227 ext. 248.
28
Resources
Graduating High School • CUNY University Student Senate
www.uss.cuny.edu/senate/
• New York Sate Higher Education international/nyic.html
Services Corporation
www.hesc.com Financial Aid & Scholarships
• College Now • Federal Student Aid
http://collegenow.cuny.edu/ http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/
• General Educational Development • Find Aid
Testing Office-GED www.finaid.org/fafsa/fafsa.phtml
www.emsc.nysed.gov/ged/
• Hispanic Scholarship Fund
Road to College www.hsf.net
• College Board • Mexican American Legal Defense &
www.collegeboard.com Education Fund-MALDEF
www.maldef.org
• ACT test
www.actstudent.org • National Council of La Raza-NCLR
www.nclr.org
• College Summit Student Essays
www.pbs.org/now/shows/417/ • New York State Youth Leadership
student-essays.html Council-YLC
www.nysylc.org
• City University of New York-CUNY
www.cuny.edu • Peter F. Vallone Scholarship
www.web.cuny.edu/admissions/
• State University of New York-SUNY undergraduate/scholarships/vallone.
www.suny.edu html
Higher Education & Immigrant • CUNY Honors Program
Student without Immigration Status www.macaulay.cuny.edu/
• New York State Youth • Fast Web
Leadership Council www.fastweb.com
www.nysylc.org
• Immigrant Legal Resource Center / A
Guide for Immigrant Youth
www.ilrc.org/for_immigrants/living_
in_the_us.php
29
Notes
Related docs
