What Undocumented Students Need to Know about Higher Education

Undocumented students in Illinois may pay the in-state rate for tuition per House Bill 60-In-State Tuition for Undocumented Students (Signed into law as Public Act 093-0007).

DACA students are not eligible for federal student aid but can qualify for in-state or college aid and private scholarships. See How to Pay for College as an Undocumented Student for details.

  • Attending Illinois Community Colleges and Universities

    All public community colleges and universities in the state of Illinois allow undocumented Illinois students to pay in-state tuition rates through Illinois Public Act 093-0007; however, this does not guarantee admission to a state community college or university. Students must meet admissions requirements and must contact the community college and/or the university directly.

    A few public universities in the State of Illinois that allow undocumented Illinois students to pay in-state tuition rates include but are not limited to the University of Illinois, Southern Illinois University, Chicago State University, Eastern Illinois University, Governors State University, Illinois State University, Northeastern Illinois University, Northern Illinois University, and Western Illinois University

    See more information about Public Act 093-0007

    Transferring to a Four-Year University after MCC

    Visit Illinois Association for College Admission Counseling iacac.org/undocumented for information on the universities that admit noncitizen students and the resources available to them.

  • Obtaining State Licenses and Certifications

    Professions that require state licensing or certification require background checks, a social security number, and state examinations. If you are undocumented it may be difficult to pursue any type of state licensing or certification. Some of the professions that require a state license or certificate are in health care, education, and government. Potential friendly careers include business ownership, hotel management, restaurants, journalism, computers, manual labor, trade fields, radio and tv broadcasting, administrative positions, and cash-based businesses.

Staying Informed

As an undocumented student, it is important that you know your rights and stay informed about immigration policy.  Take advantage of these resources