Undocumented Students
DACA Update
The U.S. Government is not currently accepting new DACA applications due to pending litigation. Please check back to this page for future updates.
On September 13, 2023, a federal judge in the Southern District of Texas ruled DACA unlawful. Per the judge’s order, first-time DACA applications continue to be blocked and cannot be processed. Individuals who have DACA (as of July 16, 2021), or whose DACA has lapsed for less than one year, can continue to apply for renewal of their DACA.
Visit the National Immigration Law Center to learn more.
Skagit Valley College is committed to supporting undocumented students
It is important to remember that the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (1974) prohibits schools from providing any outside agency—including the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) or U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)—with any information from a student’s school file that would expose their immigration status. Immigration status should be treated like other student information, such as participation in Running Start or receiving accommodations from Disability Access Services.
College employees should only inquire about a student’s immigration status:
- If it is beneficial to the support of a student’s educational goals.
- To evaluate appropriate access to the same educational opportunities as all students.
- To ensure that students are exposed to learning experiences that focus on college aspirations.
Even after, the information given to the college staff should remain confidential.
The Real Hope Act/WASFA
On February 26, 2014, Governor Jay Inslee signed into law the REAL Hope Act (SB 6523) also known as the Washington Dream Act. This new law expands eligibility for the Washington State Need Grant to non-citizens. Visit the Real Hope Act page to learn if you qualify and how you can apply through WASFA.
Application for WASFA now available:
Residency and Senate Bill 5194 (formerly HB 1079): Undocumented Students
Effective July 25, 2021, Senate Bill 5194 significantly changes Washington’s tuition equity law. Section nine of the bill amends RCW 28B.15.012(2)(e), making it easier for all Washingtonians, including and especially undocumented students, to meet residency requirements for tuition and state financial aid. Since 2003, this part of residency law has been known informally as “HB 1079” for the bill that created it. This law may be met by any student, regardless of citizenship or legal immigration status. It is one of the many ways that students can meet residency requirements. The other ways to meet residency requirements still exist.
DACA – Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals
Learn more about how you can qualify for this program. A list of local and state-wide resources for DACA students is available on our DACA Information page.
Resources for Undocumented Students
A list of both state-wide and locally known organizations are available on our Resources page. Students can access their services and find out more about the local and state-wide advocacy movements. Among the list is the Washington Dream Act Coalition and Skagit Immigrants Rights Council. Go to our page and find out more on Washington state organizations that support undocumented students.
Scholarships
A number of scholarships are available for DACA and undocumented students. You can apply for both local and state-wide scholarships. Skagit Valley College offers various scholarships to help undocumented students continue on with their education.
How to Succeed
Five Secrets to Success for Undocumented Students
by Katharine Gin, Journal of College Admission, Winter 2010
- Get comfortable asking for help. You can’t do this alone.
- Find older students who can be role models and mentors. They may just be a few years older than you!
- Form strong relationships with teachers and mentors with whom you can speak honestly and openly about your challenges.
- Be creative. Be entrepreneurial. Don’t take no for an answer.
- Believe in yourself. Know that you have value to your family, your community, your classmates, and your country.