Undocumented Students Thrive at Northeastern
Northeastern has made a University-wide decision to take a stand in support of undocumented students and to reaffirm our institutional commitment to social justice. (The video above features Yadira Alonzo, winner of the 2018 Future Alumni Leader Award.) Our ongoing changes and updates in policies strive to provide an equitable learning experience for all Northeastern students.
APPLYING TO NORTHEASTERN
Northeastern has made changes to both the paper and the online versions of the admissions application to make it easier for undocumented students to complete. Also, whether you are a first-year, transfer, or graduate student, all undocumented students who are admitted to NEIU must complete this affidavit and official high school transcripts to determine in-state tuition eligibility. Visit the Admissions page for more information.
FINANCIAL RESOURCES
NEIU strives to offer a quality and affordable education for all students. All our talent, merit, and foundation scholarships are open to undocumented students.
While Undocumented and DACAmented students are not eligible for federal aid and should not complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), beginning in the year 2020, the State of Illinois has made available the Retention of Illinois Students & Equity (RISE) Act, which allows eligible undocumented and transgender students who are disqualified from federal financial aid to apply for all forms of state financial aid.
The Alternative Application for Illinois Financial Aid provides a pathway for these qualified students to apply for Monetary Award Program (MAP) grants, the state's largest need-based grant program for low-income college students. Students who meet the criteria, should apply for the Alternative App - RISE Act every year.
STUDENT LEADERSHIP and Support
The Undocumented Resilient and Organized (URO) student club began as an informal gathering of undocumented students during the Fall 2011 and Spring 2012 semesters. URO is composed of undocumented and fellow students who can relate, commit and are able to come together. Since its formation, URO has joined the struggle to make NEIU a welcoming institution for undocumented students.
URO is more than just a student organization that advocates on behalf of undocumented students. URO is a space in which critical consciousness is being learned and expressed. It is a place where you can speak out, raise your voice, challenge, resist and fight against injustices of all types and at all levels. They welcome anyone interested in migrant justice. To learn more about the club, visit URO's website.
GETTING HELP: CAMPUS RESOURCES
Northeastern provides comprehensive academic and co-curricular programs and services to all of our students. But, how do you know who to go to with a particular issue or problem? Since the spring of 2013, NEIU faculty and staff have been offered trainings to become undocumented student allies. Allies are informed and ready to address your questions and concerns. Look for the open door logo displayed in ally offices. If you ever need an advocate to help you navigate University offices or programs, or who can listen to things you do not feel comfortable sharing with just anyone, contact the Undocumented Student Resources director to schedule and appointment at undocuresources@neiu.edu.
GETTING HELP: COMMUNITY RESOURCES
Northeastern has many community partners who advocate on behalf of and provide resources to undocumented immigrants. One of them may be near you.
