Frequently Asked Questions
Did Oklahoma pass a state DREAM Act?
Yes, it did. The Oklahoma DREAM Act meant that undocumented youth in the state that met certain requirements would be eligible for in-state tuition at public institutions of higher education. However, Oklahoma passed H.B. 1804 in 2008, a bill that ended its in-state tuition benefit, including financial aid, for undocumented students. The Act allows the Oklahoma State Regents to enroll a student in higher education institutions permitted that they meet special requirements.
Currently, 13 states have laws allowing undocumented students who meet specific requirements to receive in-state tuition rates colleges and universities. Unfortunately, Oklahoma has since amended its law, leaving granting of in-state tuition rates to undocumented students up to the Oklahoma Board of Regents. The Board of Regents currently still allows undocumented students, who meet Oklahoma’s original statutory requirements, to receive in-state tuition
What are some schools I can apply to and their policies on undocumented students?
Different schools will give you different answers regarding their policies for undocumented individuals. As undocumented youth, we have all come across that counselor that tells you you cannot go to college. That is a lie. Although some colleges and universities in different states have banned undocumented students from their schools, many counselors are just misinformed on the opportunities undocumented youth have or what it even means to be undocumented. Under resources, check out the scholarships available to you.
I am undocumented, can I go to college?
Yes, undocumented youth in Oklahoma can attend college. There is no law in Oklahoma that would ban you from registering and attending college in the state. However, different schools have different policies for undocumented youth. You must do some research of the school you’re planning to attend regarding the policies they haves. Don’t let one person discourage you – be persistent. As undocumented youth, we know that it can become difficult to apply to college. But we also know that these are our rights and we need to demand answers. If one person tells you that you can’t, ask the next person. Check out the list of schools and scholarships provided on this website.
Why should we provide in-state tuition for undocumented students?
In-state tuition should be provided to undocumented students because it’s the right thing to do. It is to the state’s best interest that undocumented youth receive adequate education in order to have a strong and capable workforce in the state. Approximately 65,000 undocumented students graduate from high schools in the United States every year without the same opportunities as their classmates. Many youth come to realize of their immigration status when applying to college. Like their peers, undocumented youth have worked just as hard to succeed academically to only find out their immigration status limits their chances to an education.
Oklahoma used to offer in-state tuition to undocumented students, but the state repealed its decision in the year 2008. These youth do not have access to federal financial aid, making it nearly impossible for many to afford an education after High School. According to a study by the National Immigration Law Center, in-state tuition bills that have been passed in other states show the significant rise in the percentage of college enrollment of undocumented students. This website is made so undocumented youth can have easy access to resources when applying to colleges in Oklahoma.
Why don’t undocumented students become United States citizens?
Under current immigration law, it is not possible for the majority of these students to adjust their status and apply for permanent residency or citizenship. The Federal DREAM Act, which would provide a pathway to legalization for undocumented youth who came to the United States as children, has been stalled in Congress for nearly a decade. The bill passed the House of Representatives during the December 2010 lame-duck session vote but fell five votes short of passage in the Senate. As a result of the bill’s failure, undocumented youth who consider the United States their home are not able to fix their immigration status. Although undocumented youth cannot fix their status, education is a right to all and not a privilege to few. Don’t lose hope, apply to schools and available scholarships, and reach out to a trusted friend or counselor if you need help with the application process.