If need-based aid is not available, is there a feasible path undocumented students can take to pay for their education with stackable merit scholarships, loans and/or grants from your school?: https://www.colorado.edu/undocumentedstudentresources/student-resources. there are merit scholarships available to all students and we recommend students search for private banks who offer loans to undocumented or international students. Here are just a couple that we’re aware of:
· Citizens Bank requires that international student borrowers have a creditworthy cosigner who is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident: https://studentloanhero.com/featured/citizens-bank-student-loans-review/
· MPOWER Financing is one lender that doesn’t require DACA students to have a cosigner: https://studentloanhero.com/featured/mpower-financing-review/
What would be the requirements for such scholarships and what would a student's chances of getting them?: Requirements are listed on the webpages mentioned in the previous questions, but of course important to note that scholarship are highly competitive.
Are undocumented students eligible for need-based aid?: We provide need-based aid for undocumented students who qualify for CO in-state tuition under the Colorado ASSET bill: https://www.colorado.edu/financialaid/apply-aid/asset. Undocumented students who are not residents of CO, are not eligible for need-based aid.
Admissions Information
Does your school provide merit aid specially for undocumented students?: Yes.
Are you need-blind for undocumented students?: We are need-blind for all students, regardless of classification, residency, or citizenship.
Are undocumented students considered international or domestic?: Domestic
What other piece of advice would you give an undocumented student hoping for admission at your school?: The website above is helpful to guide students through the process.
Other admissions information: The only time a student may need to provide further documentation is if they are trying to provide evidence of their ASSET eligibility - https://www.colorado.edu/financialaid/apply-aid/asset
How would their status affect their application?: It will not. If a student reveals this information, it can provide additional context for us to understand the unique challenges they have experienced. But, it’s not a factor we consider when making an admissions decision.
Are there any restrictions on merit aid for undocumented students at your school?: No.
Is there a special contact point for undocumented students?: As a prospective applicant, students should work with their region-specific admissions counselor. Each counselor is trained to support undocumented students. This website might also be helpful - https://www.colorado.edu/admissions/apply/undocumented-students