Being an undocumented student in the U.S. can present unique challenges—especially when it comes to affording college. The good news? There are incredible scholarships out there created specifically to support students like you.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your education journey, here are 8 great scholarships for undocumented students available in May 2025 that could help make college more accessible and affordable.
Table of Contents
1. TheDream.US National Scholarship
One of the largest scholarship programs for undocumented students, TheDream.US National Scholarship is open to high school seniors, graduates, and GED holders who came to the U.S. before turning 16.
Amount: Up to $33,000 for bachelor’s degrees and $16,500 for associate degrees
Eligibility: With or without DACA/TPS; must attend a participating public college
Deadline: Varies; usually in early spring
Tip: Apply early and craft a strong personal statement.
2. Golden Door Scholars
Golden Door Scholars provides full-ride scholarships for high-achieving undocumented students, especially those interested in STEM and other in-demand fields.
Amount: Full tuition + internship support and mentorship
Eligibility: Undocumented students (with or without DACA) pursuing a 4-year degree
Deadline: Opens in fall; prepare in May
Tip: Strong academics and leadership experience help your application stand out.
3. Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF)
Though not exclusively for undocumented students, HSF offers several awards that DACA recipients can qualify for.
Amount: $500 to $5,000
Eligibility: Hispanic heritage, minimum 3.0 GPA, must plan to enroll full-time
Deadline: May 2025
Tip: Be ready to provide transcripts, a resume, and a personal essay.
4. Jack Kent Cooke Foundation College Scholarship
One of the most competitive scholarships in the country, the Jack Kent Cooke Scholarship supports high-achieving, low-income students—including DACA recipients.
Amount: Up to $55,000 per year
Eligibility: GPA of 3.5+, demonstrated financial need
Deadline: Applications open in May
Tip: Showcase academic excellence and resilience.
5. Ascend Educational Fund
Ascend Educational Fund awards scholarships to immigrant students in NYC—regardless of immigration status.
Amount: $2,500 to $20,000
Eligibility: Must have graduated from a NYC high school
Deadline: May 2025
Tip: Share how your background has shaped your goals.
6. Define American Fellowship
This unique opportunity isn’t a traditional scholarship—it’s a storytelling and media fellowship for undocumented youth.
Amount: Varies (often includes funding for creative work or college support)
Eligibility: Undocumented or DACA students involved in media or advocacy
Deadline: Opens in late spring
Tip: Ideal for students interested in journalism, film, or social impact work.
7. Pre-Health Dreamers Scholarships
If you’re pursuing a career in healthcare, Pre-Health Dreamers offers scholarships and support for undocumented students in medical or allied health fields.
Amount: Varies
Eligibility: Undocumented students in pre-med, nursing, or health sciences
Deadline: Rolling; check listings this May
Tip: Join their community for mentorship and guidance.
8. Chicana Latina Foundation Scholarship
This foundation provides scholarships and leadership training to Latina students—including undocumented and DACA recipients—living in California.
Amount: $1,500
Eligibility: Latina, from Northern California, full-time college student
Deadline: Opens in May
Tip: Get involved in community service and highlight that in your application.
Being undocumented should never be a barrier to achieving your educational dreams. Scholarships like these exist to support your potential and open doors to higher education. Whether you’re studying biology, engineering, or creative writing, there’s financial help out there—and you deserve it.
Take the first step, apply boldly, and know that your story matters.