Undocumented Students

Seattle University and Undocumented Students

Seattle University recognizes that undocumented students make important contributions to the intellectual and social foundation of the campus.  Seattle University admits and enrolls students regardless of their citizenship. YOU are welcome here.

Our DREAM students, We can't close the door on their futures just because they're undocumented, by Father Stephen V. Sundborg

Who is an Undocumented Student?

An undocumented student is a foreign national who: (1) entered the United States without inspection or with fraudulent documents; or (2) entered legally as a non-immigrant but then violated the terms of his or her status and remained in the United States without authorization (as defined by the National Immigration Law Center).

Most college-bound undocumented students:

  • have lived in the United States most of their lives
  • have been brought to the United States by their parents at a young age
  • have learned English - have attended elementary, middle, and high school in the United States
  • have excelled academically in high school and want to pursue a college education
  • currently lack a way to become legal residents or citizens in the United States

Scholarships

All undergraduate undocumented students are considered for SU Merit-Based Scholarships, Costco Scholarship and Sullivan Leadership Award.  Undocumented Washington state resident graduate students are encouraged to apply for WASFA to be considered for SU Merit-Based Scholarships.  For additional information/requirements on the above mentioned scholarships, please see our scholarship page.

Noncitizen students are also encouraged to seek funding from outside scholarship sources like non-profit organizations, individuals, government agencies, foundations, and more. Please see the list below for some of the many scholarships websites students can search on:

Financial Aid

At this time, undocumented students cannot legally receive any federally funded student financial aid, including loans, grants, scholarships or work-study money.

However, SB 6523 (The REAL Hope Act), has expanded eligibility for the Washington College Grant to undergraduate low-income, non-citizen students who meet the program’s eligibility requirements and satisfy the residency criteria. Complete the Washington Application for State Financial Aid (WASFA) and find out what you may be eligible for. Priority deadline is February 1st; students who file the WASFA after that date may still be considered based on available funding. 

Those with questions about financial aid for undocumented students should contact Student Financial Services at 206-220-8020 or financialservices@seattleu.edu

Office of Multicultural Affairs

Additional information and resources for undocumented students/applicants at Seattle University can be found in the Office of Multicultural Affairs.