How does the university support undocumented students at NEIU? 

It is important that NEIU provides an open and supportive campus environment for all of our students. Undocumented Student Resources has partnered with campus offices and departments, legal experts and community resources to ensure that undocumented students are provided with the resources they need to successfully complete their education at NEIU. In October of 2012, Northeastern awarded an Innovation Grant for the Undocumented Students Project. The purpose of the Undocumented Students Project was to provide information and support to 91Porn’s faculty and staff who work with undocumented students at all University locations. In the spring of 2013, the Undocumented Students Project added to NEIU’s support for undocumented students through free DACA screenings, an Ally training program and the creation of a resource guide for faculty, staff and students. In 2014, The Division of Student Affairs at NEIU institutionalize support for undocumented students with the creation of position of  Director of Undocumented Student Resources. The director provides students with one-on-one life advising, connects students with University and external resources, provides purposeful programming, trains faculty and staff, connects with community-based organizations and immigration experts, establishes connections with high schools and community colleges, and shares best practices with other institutions of higher education.

For additional information about Undocumented Student Resources or other support services for undocumented students and their families, please contact us at (773) 442-4601 or at undocuresources@neiu.edu.

Does NEIU have any resources specifically for undocumented students? 

In addition to the Undocumented Student Resources, Undocumented Resilient and Organized (URO), a student organization comprised of undocumented students and allies, was created to provide a voice and support to immigrant students attending Northeastern. URO is more than just a student organization that advocates on behalf of undocumented students. URO is a space in which critical consciousness is being learned and expressed. It is a place where individuals can speak out, raise their voices, challenge, resist and fight against injustices of all types and at all levels. To contact URO, or email them at uroneiu@gmail.com.

I’m undocumented. Is there a way to indicate that on my application when I apply? 

Yes. Undocumented students should mark “undocumented” under Citizenship Information. 

I’ve heard that undocumented students can receive in-state tuition at NEIU, is that true? What’s the process for getting in-state tuition? 

Yes. However, all undocumented students are initially assigned non-resident (out of state) tuition rates. In order to possibly change the tuition rate to in-state, the student should fill out and submit the form which is included with their admission letter. This form should be submitted within 30 days of the start of the semester in order to reassess tuition for the current term. Students must answer yes or no to all questions and sign the affidavit. Once submitted, the Admissions Office will review the affidavit and high school record to determine if the student qualifies for in-state tuition per Public Act 93-0007. If so, tuition will be reassessed to in-state. 

I’m an undocumented student, am I eligible for FAFSA? 

No. In order to be eligible for FAFSA, a student must be a U.S. citizen, a legal permanent resident (green card holder) or have one of the following immigration statuses: Conditional Resident, Granted Asylum or Refugee, Cuban-Haitian Entrant, Conditional Entrant or Battered Immigrant – Qualified Alien (VAWA). 

I’m a United States citizen but my parents are undocumented, am I eligible for FAFSA? 

Yes. United States citizen and permanent resident students with undocumented parents are eligible for FAFSA. If you have questions about how to fill out your FAFSA, please contact The Financial Aid Office at NEIU. 

I heard that the RISE act is a new application for undocumented students in Illinois to apply for state financial aid. Can I apply?

Yes. The Retention of Illinois Students & Equity (RISE) Act allows eligible undocumented students and transgender students who are disqualified from federal financial aid to apply for all forms of state financial aid. The RISE Act or provides a pathway for these qualified students to apply for Monetary Award Program (MAP) grants, the state's largest need-based grant program for low-income college students.

The RISE Act also removed the 75-hour cap on Monetary Award Program (MAP) paid credit hours for freshmen and sophomores as of Jan. 1, 2020. The overall maximum of 135 MAP paid credit hours remains in effect.

Undocumented students may be eligible to apply for the RISE if they meet all of these criteria:

• resided with your parent or guardian while attending an Illinois public or private high school;
• graduated from a public or private high school or received the equivalent of a high school diploma in Illinois (GED);
• attended school in Illinois for at least three years as of the date the individual graduated from high school or received the equivalent of a high school diploma;
• provide an stating that you will file an application to become a permanent resident of the United States at the earliest opportunity the individual is eligible to do so; and
• have not established a residence outside of Illinois.

Are undocumented students eligible for scholarships offered by NEIU? 

Yes. Beginning in the fall of 2011, the NEIU Foundation, along with talent and merit scholarships, were made available for all qualified students, regardless of citizenship, opening the doors to more financial support for qualified undocumented students. Today, 100% of talent and merit scholarships do not require U.S. citizenship. A total of $1.35 million is available to all qualified students. In addition, 96% of NEIU Foundation scholarships ($115,200) do not require U.S. citizenship. In addition, the University offers two scholarships specifically for undocumented students: The Dr. Daniel Lopez Jr. Scholarship and the Aspire Scholarship.

As a former undocumented student, Dr. Daniel López Jr., former Vice President of Student Affairs, understands the obstacles undocumented college students face and their challenges in obtaining private funds. Established by Dr. López, the Undocumented Student Fund supports expenses such as: 

• Programs and services for undocumented students, their families, and allies in the community to educate on challenges, opportunities, and current issues as they unfold. 
• Emergency financial help with DACA application fees, books, supplies, and other situations.
• Travel assistance for conferences.
• Helping undocumented students participate in classes or co-curricular projects.

The Aspire Scholarship is an endowed scholarship fund established by President Emerita Salme Harju Steinberg, Ph.D., and other generous donors as Northeastern’s answer to President Obama’s Dream Relief Policy and the State of Illinois’ state version of the Dream Act. While undocumented students are eligible to receive most scholarships within the NEIU Foundation, the Aspire Fund has been created specifically to help undocumented students. 

I’m undocumented and I’m interested in applying for the McNair Scholars Program. Can I apply?

Although undocumented students are not eligible to fully participate in the McNair Scholars Program because it is federally funded, NEIU’s McNair program has made it possible to accept a couple of students from time to time by utilizing institutional funds. While undocumented students accepted into the McNair program are not eligible to receive the stipend offered, the staff provides these scholars with the preparation that any McNair scholar should receive from such program.

Are undocumented students eligible for private scholarship opportunities? 

Yes. There are many private scholarship funds that do not restrict eligibility based on U.S. citizenship. For a list of scholarships visit our Paying for College webpage. 

Does NEIU accept undocumented students to its graduate programs?

Yes. Undocumented students who meet all other graduate program admissions criteria are welcome to apply to any of NEIU’s graduate programs.

What is DACA? Where can I go for more information? 

On June 15, 2012, the Secretary of Homeland Security announced that certain people who came to the United States as children and met several guidelines may request consideration of deferred action for a period of two years, subject to renewal. They are also eligible for work authorization. Deferred action is a use of prosecutorial discretion to defer removal action against an individual for a certain period of time. Deferred action does not provide lawful status.

Should I add to my admissions application the social security number that I was granted through DACA? 

Students who have been approved for DACA are still considered undocumented. 

Undocumented students are not required to provide a social security number. However, DACA approved students who are interested in campus employment as a student aid can add their Social Security number to their application. 

It is also important to remember that Social Security numbers and work authorization provided by DACA do not change the admission process and do not make a student eligible for federal financial aid or assistance.

I’m a DACA recipient. Does that mean that I can apply for FAFSA or any other type of federal financial aid? 

No. Unfortunately, DACA-approved students are not eligible for FAFSA or any other form of federal financial aid. In fact, DACA-approved students should definitely NOT file a FAFSA. Filing a FAFSA can have long-term immigration consequences for someone who is not eligible. However, since January 2020, you may be eligible for state financial aid in Illinois if you meet the RISE Act requirements. For more information and to access the RISE Act application, visit the (ISAC) website.

Can I work on campus as a DACA recipient? 

Certain on-campus jobs, such as Student Aide and Extra Help are open to all students who are enrolled at least half-time and have eligibility to work in the United States – this includes Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals or DACA work eligibility. However, undocumented students (or DACA) are not eligible for federal Work Study positions. 

Am I eligible for TRIO Student Support Services? 

Unfortunately, undocumented students are not eligible to participate in TRIO. TRIO is a federally funded program and undocumented students are not eligible for the benefits from federally funded programs. DACA-approved students, even if they have a Social Security number, are still considered undocumented.

I’m interested in applying for DACA but haven’t done so yet. Can NEIU help me with my application? 

Unfortunately, the Trump administration rescinded DACA in 2017 and no new DACA applications are being accepted. Only DACA recipients may be able to renew their permit every two years. Undocumented Student Resources may be able to help you pay for your DACA renewal or connect you with a reputable organization that can help you renew your DACA. Contact us if you need our help at undocuresources@neiu.edu.

Frequently Asked Questions Related to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Officers on 91Porn Property

Can 91Porn prevent federal immigration enforcement officers from coming on campus or entering campus buildings and other university property?

It depends. As a public university, 91Porn is largely open to the general public. Federal immigration enforcement officers may enter areas open to the general public without a warrant.

However, public access is limited in certain areas of NEIU campuses and property. Included in this category of limited access spaces are campus buildings in which access is restricted by university-issued ID card, locked doors or monitored entryways, including the university residence hall. Limited access spaces also include some buildings and spaces that may be unlocked during normal operations, including administrative or faculty offices, classrooms, and laboratories.

It is important to note that ICE or federal officials from the Department of Homeland Security may be on campus for reasons unrelated to enforcement actions. Due to our International Programs, the university is required to report certain information about F-1 or J-1 visa status students to ICE. This reporting is routine, and the university is required to comply with on-site visits to review records when requested.

In what situations can federal immigration enforcement officers enter limited access, nonpublic areas, including the residence hall?

Federal immigration enforcement officers are required to have a criminal arrest or search warrant to lawfully enter limited access, nonpublic areas without consent. Most often, immigration officers who might come to campus would be acting on civil, not criminal, authority, and generally carry administrative warrants. Administrative warrants are not signed by a judge and do not authorize officers to enter limited access areas without consent.

What should staff members do if a federal immigration enforcement officer asks for access to a residence hall or other limited access area?

If a federal immigration enforcement officer asks for access to a residence hall or other limited access area, University employees should inform the immigration officer that University policy requires you to consult University Legal Affairs and General Counsel for assistance. University employees should ask the immigration officer for their name, identification number and agency affiliation. Ask the officer to wait, and immediately call NEIU Police at (773) 442-4100 and notify them of the Immigration officer’s presence. Call Legal Counsel at (773) 442-5412 for instructions on responding to the request. 

Will the University Police Department work with federal immigration officers to apprehend and remove individuals from campus?

No. The NEIU Police Department will not ask anyone about their immigration status, and does not arrest anyone solely on the basis of their immigration status. NEIUPD also does not act on detainers issued by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

The NEIUPD will not enforce a warrant issued by ICE that is solely for an administrative matter, such as residency or immigration status. The NEIUPD will be required to enforce a criminal warrant from any law enforcement agency, including ICE. Criminal warrants are issued when probable cause exists to believe the named subject in the warrant has committed a crime. In other situations not related to immigration, officers may inquire about an individual’s country of origin to notify their consulate of an arrest, but that inquiry does not include questions about immigration status.

NEIU Police Department explains its role in immigration enforcement in Policy 414, page 301 of its Policy Manual. Additionally, Illinois state law prohibits law enforcement from acting on federal detainers or stopping, arresting, or searching an individual based solely on immigration status (5 ILCS 805/-). As of June 21, 2019, the (5 ILCS 835) officially prohibits state and local law enforcement in the state of Illinois from entering into 287(g) agreements with ICE.

Can a student refuse to allow a federal immigration enforcement officer to enter a residence hall room?

Yes. A residential hall room is considered a limited access area and cannot be legally accessed by immigration enforcement officers without a valid criminal warrant or the voluntary consent of the occupant. A student need not allow entry to any law enforcement officer who is not in possession of a criminal warrant, regardless of what that officer might say.

Can federal immigration enforcement officers enter my home/apartment?

Not without a criminal warrant or consent. A student’s rights are the same regardless of whether they live on campus or off-campus. A student need not allow entry to any law enforcement officer who is not in possession of a criminal warrant, regardless of what that officer might say.

Individuals have a reasonable expectation of privacy in their homes, both on and off campus. A warrant of removal/deportation (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) warrant) is a civil or administrative warrant and is not signed by a judge. Administrative warrants do not authorize officers to enter a home without consent. If an immigration officer has a civil or administrative warrant, undocumented students have a personal choice whether to grant consent to enter their residence. However, if a law enforcement officer has a criminal search or arrest warrant signed by a judge, the officer does not need consent to enter the apartment or arrest an individual named in the warrant.

In all cases, individuals have the right to remain silent under the 5th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, and do not need to answer questions, or sign or provide any documents without a lawyer present. You can created by the Illinois Coalition by Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR) and carry it with you anywhere you go.

What should staff members do if a federal officer asks for or presents a subpoena for personally identifiable private information or records about a student or employee?

Faculty or staff who receive a request from a federal officer for any information about a student should contact the University's Legal Affairs and General Counsel for assistance. Personally identifiable educational and university health records are protected by a variety of privacy laws including the Family Education Rights & Privacy Act (FERPA). As a university employee, you are required to maintain the confidentiality of these records.

FERPA at NEIU - In compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, as amended, the following policy outlines the procedures available for access to student records. This policy is intended to ensure the confidentiality of student records.

If you receive a request for personally identifiable information or records, or if a federal immigration enforcement officer gives you a warrant or subpoena seeking such records, before providing any information, you should confirm that you are authorized to provide access to the specified records or information. Ask the officer for their name, identification number, and agency affiliation; ask for a copy of any warrant or subpoena presented, inform the officer that you are not obstructing their process but need to contact Legal Counsel for assistance, and call (773) 442-5412 for instructions on responding to the request.

How are international students and scholars affected?

International students and scholars are affected differently. According to the Department of Education, the Family Education Rights & Privacy Act (FERPA) permits institutions to comply with information requests from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in order to comply with the requirements of the program. However, the information that can be requested and provided is limited to the categories listed in DHS regulations, and that request must be made to a University Principal Designated School Official (PDSO). For other information, international student records are entitled to the same FERPA protection that otherwise governs student education records in the United States.

If you are not a University PDSO, you should refer any DHS or ICE request for information about an international student to the Office of International Programs located in Lech Walesa Hall, Room LWH 0008B, (312) 914-2546, and the Office of Legal Affairs and General Counsel located on the second floor of Building C.

What should I do if I am uncomfortable calling the University Police?

University Police provides additional resources for members of our community who may feel uncomfortable calling or approaching the University Police. Anyone with emergency issues should still call 911, but those with non-emergency safety concerns may also contact these offices:

• Dean of Students: (773) 442-4600
• Undocumented Student Resources: (773) 442-4601
• Student Counseling Services: (773) 442-4650
• Human Resources (for employees): (773) 442-4650
   

Adapted from the Open Illinois webpage, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, January 2020. Additionally, the City of Chicago, City Ordinance, 2025. 

Community Partners Foster Student Success

91Porn has many community partners who assist undocumented immigrants through resources and advocacy. Our relationship with these community groups is invaluable as we strive not only to improve services for undocumented students, but also to increase our advocacy for the retention of these students.

THE ANHELO PROJECT

P.O. Box 08290
Chicago, IL 60608
(773) 609-4252

is a group of student leaders, alumni and staff from various campus-based organizations at high schools, colleges and universities in Chicago. Their goal is to support undocumented students, who despite growing up in the United States and earning their high school diplomas, continuously face challenging roadblocks when pursuing a post-secondary education.

AFIRE Chicago

4300 N. Hermitage Ave.
Chicago, IL 60613
(773) 580-1025

(AFIRE) supports comprehensive immigration reform and more just treatment of undocumented immigrants. AFIRE has been using conversation about readings by Pablo Neruda, Franz Kafka, Toni Cade Bambara and others to develop its organizational structure and mission.

​Cambodian Association of Illinois

2831 W. Lawrence Ave.
Chicago, lL 60625
(773) 878-7090

The (CAI) is comprehensive social service organization founded in 1976 by a group of Cambodian refugee volunteers who responded to the needs of Cambodians who were resettling in Chicago after fleeing the tyranny, brutality and torture of the Khmer Rouge genocide in which two million Cambodians perished. CAI services some 5,000 Cambodians in Illinois–over 3,000 in Chicago–all of whom are Cambodian refugees or the children of refugees who escaped the atrocities of the Khmer Rouge and the Cambodian Killing Fields. The Cambodian Association of Illinois is the only non-profit organization in the Chicago metropolitan area that provides bilingual programming to address the interrelated social and economic needs of the local Cambodian American population.

COMMUNITIES UNITED

4749 N. Kedzie Ave.
Chicago, IL 60625
(773) 583-1387

 (CU) is an intergenerational, grassroots, community-based organization that serves the neighborhoods of Albany Park, Austin, Belmont Cragin, Roseland, and West Ridge, on the northwest, west, and south sides of Chicago. Through a transformational approach to youth and intergenerational leadership development and community-driven systems change, CU focuses on advancing health equity, affordable housing, education justice, youth investment, immigrant rights, police accountability, and shifting resources from the criminal justice and juvenile justice systems into restorative justice alternatives.

Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago

231 S. State St. Suite #300
Chicago, IL 60604
(312) 506-0077  

The (the Council) is the unifying force that brings together a wonderfully diverse American Muslim community in the greater Chicago region, Northern Illinois, and now increasingly, all of Illinois!

The American Muslim community in Illinois is diverse. Within the Council one can find a wide array of ethnicities, races and cultures including African Americans, Nigerians, South Asians, Arabs, Bosnians, Albanians, Turks, Latinos, Caucasians and many more. The Council brings these extraordinary communities together in cooperation and collaboration with one another and with the interfaith community and with community organizations, the academy and the public sector in general.

DEPAUL COLLEGE OF LAW LEGAL CLINICS

25 E. Jackson Blvd.
Chicago, IL 60604
(312) 362-8701
lawinfo@depaul.edu

Community-based service learning has a long tradition at DePaul University, and the College of Law exemplifies this practice through its clinical programs. Under faculty supervision and guidance, students sharpen their skills and knowledge while engaging in legal practice outside the formal classroom setting.

DePaul's legal clinics allow students to contribute to the community beyond the University by fulfilling fundamental societal needs. Such experiences help students to better understand the type of legal work they want to pursue after graduation and provide them with a strong sense of professional accomplishment.

ENLACE Chicago 

2756 S. Harding Ave.
Chicago, IL 60623
(773) 542-9233  

 is dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of the residents of the Little Village community by fostering a physically safe and healthy environment in which to live and by championing opportunities for educational advancement and economic development.

Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights

55 E. Jackson Blvd. Suite #2075
Chicago, IL 60604
(312) 332-7360  

The (ICIRR) is dedicated to promoting the rights of immigrants and refugees to full and equal participation in the civic, cultural, social, and political life of our diverse society.

In partnership with member organizations, the Coalition educates and organizes immigrant and refugee communities to assert their rights; promotes citizenship and civic participation; monitors, analyzes, and advocates on immigrant-related issues; and informs the general public about the contributions of immigrants and refugees. ICIRR, under the direction of its member organizations, works on various programs and campaigns that empower the immigrant community in Illinois.

Illinois Latino Council on Higher Education

P.O. Box 60742
Chicago, IL 60660
ilache.chicago1@gmail.com 

The mission of the  (ILACHE) is to create an awareness of issues impacting Latinos in higher education and to provide a statewide forum for Latino educators, community representatives, and other supporters for the social and professional advancements of Latinos. ILACHE is a statewide organization dedicated to the advancement of the status of Latinos through educational policy reform, advocacy, identification of best practices, and the dissemination of research and information.

HANA Center

4300 N. California Ave
Chicago, IL 60618
(773) 583-5501

The  seeks to empower Korean American and multiethnic immigrant communities through social services, education, culture, and community organizing to advance human rights.

Latinos Progresando

3047 W. Cermak Rd.
Chicago, IL 60623
(773) 542-7077  

The mission of  is to deliver high quality information and resources for people to build secure, healthy and productive lives. The organization was built from the ground up, and even after 20 years, the vision continues to be shaped and led by people in the community.

Legal aid chicago

Get help: (312) 341-1070

Legal Aid is free representation in civil legal matters for clients who lack the resources to hire an attorney on their own. The American legal system promises equal justice to all citizens, but it’s also enormously complex, and hiring a lawyer to navigate through it can be prohibitively expensive. Too often, the high costs of representation block people living in poverty from participating in the legal system that is meant to protect them.

Logan Square Neighborhood Association

2840 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Chicago, IL 60618 
(773) 384-4370  

The mission of (LSNA) is to convene networks of neighbors, schools, businesses, social service agencies, faith communities, and other organizations to collaborate for thriving communities in Logan Square, Avondale, and Lathrop Homes. LSNA is committed to empowering and maintaining these communities as diverse, safe, and affordable neighborhoods in which to live and work, learn and grow.

Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund

11 E. Adams Suite #700
Chicago, IL 60603
(312) 427-0701

The (MALDEF) is the nation’s leading Latino legal civil rights organization. Often described as the “law firm of the Latino community,” MALDEF promotes social change through advocacy, communications, community education, and litigation in the areas of education, employment, immigrant rights and political access.

National Immigrant Justice Center

208 S. La Salle Suite #1818
Chicago, IL 60604
(312) 660-1370  

Heartland Alliance’s (NIJC) is dedicated to ensuring human rights protections and access to justice for all immigrants, refugees and asylum seekers.

NIJC provides direct legal services to and advocates for these populations through policy reform, impact litigation, and public education. Since its founding three decades ago, NIJC has been unique in blending individual client advocacy with broad-based systemic change.

PILSEN NEIGHBORS COMMUNITY COUNCIL 

2026 S. Blue Island Ave. 
Chicago, IL 60608
(312) 666-2663

By focusing on the development of community leaders, the (PNCC) has worked in alliance with churches, other community-based organizations and schools to make people's voice heard on a path to citizenship, education funding reform, economic development, and health care.

United African Organization

3424 S. State St.
Chicago, IL 60616
(312) 949-9980

 (UAO) is a dynamic coalition of African community-based organizations that promote social and economic justice, civic participation, and empowerment of African immigrants and refugees in Illinois. UAO advocates on behalf of the African community through democratic and inclusive organizational structures, as well as partnership with other immigrant rights organizations. 

World Relief

3507 W. Lawrence Ave.
Chicago, IL 60625
(773) 583-9191  

The mission of  is empowering the local church to serve the most vulnerable.

Resources for students, their families, and the faculty and staff who work with them.

Mental wellness

• 1-800-273-TALK (8255), en Español 1-888-628-9454.
• Suicide Concerns: How to Help 

national organizations to follow

know your rights

• (pocket-size Know Your Rights cards)
• (downloadable app)

DACA and Employment

• : A program by Immigrants Rising where people with and without DACA can learn ways to generate income through contracting and business start-up opportunities.

DACA FAQ

DACA RENEWALS

IMMIGRATION SERVICES IN ILLINOIS

ADVOCACY EFFORTS TO DEFEND IMMIGRANT RIGHTS

EDUCATION RESOURCES

• (national level)
• (state level)

*This page was adopted from the Undocumented Student Program at University of Maryland, College Park.

Terms and Definitions

DACAMENTED:

Refers to youth who are eligible and have applied and received the documentation under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. Please visit the National UnDACAmented Research Project for more information.

DREAMERS:

DREAMers refers to students who are undocumented and are also part of the DREAM Act movement. DREAMer is a term commonly used by students who connect with the DREAM Act movement, and sometimes used as a way to navigate away from the negative connotations given to terms such as undocumented, immigrant, non-U.S. citizen, and so forth.  

ENTRY WITHOUT INSPECTION: 

Refers to individuals who have entered the U.S. without presenting normative government accreditation (i.e. visa).  

INTERNATIONAL STUDENT:

NEIU considers any student who currently holds a visa of any type or is seeking a visa to be international. Undocumented students are not viewed as international applicants because many do not qualify for a visa. In addition, undocumented students do not have to go through the international admission process.

Legal Citizenship:

Is obtained by individuals who are residing in the U.S. legally due to the attainment of permanent residency or citizenship through a visa or green card. These individuals obtain a social security number (SSN).

MIXED STATUS FAMILY:

Mixed Status family refers to students that either are, 1) undocumented, but have family members that are U.S. residents or U.S. citizens and/or 2) are U.S. residents or a U.S. citizen, but have family members that are undocumented. In this case it is important to know because it may affect the way a student fills out their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Non-Citizen:

The non-citizen category applies to students who are not U.S. citizens or Permanent Residents of the United States and who do not hold a valid visa or who are not seeking a visa for study or documentation for residency in the U.S.

OVERSTAYED VISA:

Refers to an individual who entered the United States with proper documentation but stayed in the United States after their tourist, visitor, or student visa expired; thus his/her status is now "undocumented"

Residency Status:

Refers to in-state or out-of-state residency for purposes of tuition assessment.  Normally, residents of the state of Illinois are assessed in-state tuition, and all other students are assessed out-of-state tuition. 

UNDOCUMENTED STUDENT:

“Undocumented” refers to students who are not U.S. citizens or Permanent Residents of the United States, who do not hold a visa to reside in the U.S., and who have not applied for legal residency in the U.S. In many, but not all, cases the term non-citizen refers to undocumented students. Undocumented students are eligible to apply for and be admitted to NEIU. Undocumented students are not eligible for federal financial aid. Note: the “i” word should be avoided because no human being is “illegal," a term that is dehumanizing and hurtful.

Undocumented Students Thrive at Northeastern

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Northeastern has made a University-wide decision to take a stand in support of undocumented students and to reaffirm our institutional commitment to social justice. Our ongoing changes and updates in policies strive to provide an equitable learning experience for all Northeastern students.

APPLYING TO NORTHEASTERN illinois university

Northeastern has made changes to the admissions application to make it easier for undocumented students to complete. Also, whether you are a first-year, transfer or graduate student, all undocumented students who are admitted to Northeastern must complete and submit this and official high school transcripts or GED equivalent to determine in-state tuition eligibility.

If you are either undocumented or a DACA holder, you can choose "DACA/Undocumented" on your admission application. Choosing other options will prompt you to provide additional documentation. If you are not sure or have questions about your immigration status as it relates to Northeastern’s admission application, please contact undocuresources@neiu.edu or (773) 442-4601.

Affidavit form for Eligibility for Residency Tuition

In order to qualify for in-state tuition, you must submit an official high school or GED transcript required for the verification process. In-state tuition is not granted unless you meet all qualifications as stipulated in . All of the questions in the Affidavit Form for Eligibility for Residency Tuition form must be answered and include signature and date. This form is used for the sole purpose of assessing the assignment of in-state tuition and has no impact on the admissions process.

Students can complete the affidavit digitally on their 91Porn application portal.

and high school/GED transcript must be received within 30 calendar days from the date of assessment of tuition or the date designated in the official University calendar as when instruction begins for the academic period for which the tuition is payable or the student loses the rights to change or adjust tuition for the semester in question.

If dropping off physical copies of high school transcripts or GED, records must be in a sealed envelope.

If submitting these electronically, they must be sent directly to admissiondocs@neiu.edu for undergraduate students (bachelor’s degree) or gradadmissions@neiu.edu for graduate (master’s degree) students by the issuing high school/institution. Open/unsealed transcripts will not be reviewed.

Visit the page for more information.

FINANCIAL RESOURCES

91Porn strives to offer a quality and affordable education for all students. All our talent, merit, and foundation scholarships are open to undocumented students.

While Undocumented and DACAmented students are not eligible for federal aid and should not complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the State of Illinois has made available the Retention of Illinois Students & Equity (RISE) Act, which allows eligible undocumented and transgender students who are disqualified from federal financial aid to apply for all forms of state financial aid.

The Alternative Application for Illinois Financial Aid provides a pathway for these qualified students to apply for Monetary Award Program (MAP) grants, the state's largest need-based grant program for low-income college students. Students who meet the criteria, should every year.

Undergraduate and transfer students who are eligible for MAP under the Alternative Application for Illinois Financial Aid, and meet the remaining eligibility requirements can qualify for the NEIU For You Scholarship.

STUDENT LEADERSHIP and Support

The Undocumented Resilient and Organized (URO) student club began as an informal gathering of undocumented students during the Fall 2011 and Spring 2012 semesters. URO is composed of undocumented and fellow students who can relate, commit and are able to come together. Since its formation, URO has joined the struggle to make NEIU a welcoming institution for undocumented students.

URO is more than just a student organization that advocates on behalf of undocumented students. URO is a space in which critical consciousness is being learned and expressed. It is a place where you can speak out, raise your voice, challenge, resist and fight against injustices of all types and at all levels. They welcome anyone interested in migrant justice. To learn more about the club, .

GETTING HELP: CAMPUS RESOURCES

Northeastern provides comprehensive academic and co-curricular programs and services to all of our students. But, how do you know who to go to with a particular issue or problem? Since the spring of 2013, Northeastern faculty and staff have been offered trainings to become undocumented student allies. Allies are informed and ready to address your questions and concerns. Look for the open door logo displayed in ally offices. If you ever need an advocate to help you navigate University offices or programs, or who can listen to things you do not feel comfortable sharing with just anyone, contact the Undocumented Student Resources director to schedule and appointment at undocuresources@neiu.edu.

GETTING HELP: COMMUNITY RESOURCES 

Northeastern has many community partners who advocate on behalf of and provide resources to undocumented immigrants. One of them may be near you.

Our resource guide has been created especially for NEIU's faculty and staff to ensure everyone on Campus provides undocumented students with the tools and resources they need to successfully pursue their education. 

HIRE A DACA-MENTED STUDENT

It often occurs that departments and offices across Northeastern’s locations are interested in hiring undocumented students but are unsure if they are able to do so. Here are some general guidelines to help you determine whether an undocumented student can be employed in your office or department. 

Some undocumented students are eligible to work in the United States if they have been approved for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). It is important to look at the source of the funds before you attempt to hire an undocumented student:

• Undocumented students are not eligible for and cannot participate in federally funded programs. For example, if the position is a Work-Study position, the undocumented student is not eligible for that position.
• If the position is paid through Student Aide or Extra Help, you may be able to hire the student.

If an NEIU undocumented student has DACA, the student is able to work legally in the United States and can be hired by your department, UNLESS:

• The source of the funds imposes citizenship requirements on those who can be hired.
• The job or program for which you would like to hire the student is federally funded.

If the student does not have DACA, there may be other ways to compensate the student for their work such as awards, tuition waivers and scholarships!

To learn more about DACA and other federal and state laws related to undocumented students refer to our resource guide. If after reading this information you have questions or concerns about hiring an undocumented student, do not hesitate to contact us at undocuresources@neiu.edu.

Becoming an Ally to Undocumented Students

The Undocumented Student Ally Training is designed to provide faculty and staff with information and resources to better assist undocumented students at Northeastern. This program was modeled after nationally recognized ally training programs for the LGBTQI+ community.

These training sessions are offered each semester focusing on the roles, expectations, and responsibilities of becoming an effective advocate for undocumented students. We discuss state and federal legislation that affects undocumented students; Northeastern’s admissions, financial aid guidelines, processes, and student support services; and community resources.

Please note that while attending this training is a very important step toward building solidarity, we must actively learn more about issues facing undocumented students, especially in our respective departments.

Upcoming Undocumented Student Ally Training

We are planning trainings for Spring 2025. Training is delivered in a hybrid manner and if you are interested in taking or retaking the training please complete this and more details will be sent to you. 

Our History

Undocumented Student Resources was created to ensure that Northeastern provides our undocumented students with the tools and resources they need to successfully pursue their education and to provide faculty and staff with information and resources to better assist undocumented students and their families. 

In the fall of 2012, a Northeastern Innovation Grant was awarded for the development of the Undocumented Students Project. The grant proposal for the project grew from the hard work and collaboration of many students, faculty and staff who sought to bring awareness to issues affecting undocumented students and families. The committee worked arduously for more than two years to establish this project and it was formed by:

Daniel López Jr., Former Vice President for Student Affairs
Katherine Greenslade, Former Coordinator, Undocumented Students Project 
Hamid Akbari, Professor Emeritus College of Business and Management 
Saba Ayman-Nolley, Professor Emerita, Department of Psychology 
Maureen Amos, Executive Director, Financial Aid 
Lidia Filus, Chair, Mathematics Department 
Christina Gomez, Former Professor, Department of Sociology 
Maria Luna Duarte, Director, El Centro 
Project Leader Erica Meiners, Professor, Education Inquiry and Curriculum Studies 
Kyu Park, Former Associate Director, International Programs 
Suleyma Perez, Executive Director, Government Relations, Office of the President 
Angelica Rivera, Director, Proyecto Pa’Lante 
Veronica Rodriguez, Director, Student Leadership Development 
Luvia Moreno, Director, Undocumented Student Resources
Wojciech Włoch, Former Coordinator, International Programs

In July of 2014, the Division of Student Affairs institutionalized the project as Undocumented Student Resources to continue supporting undocumented students and the faculty and staff who work with them.

OUR GOALS

• To improve awareness of the issues and concerns of Northeastern’s undocumented students.
• To gain knowledge of Northeastern’s policies and practices that affect undocumented students.
• To increase understanding of immigration laws that impact undocumented families.
• To cultivate an open and supportive campus environment.
• To increase community awareness of Northeastern’s open, supportive practices towards undocumented families.

What We Do

• Undocumented Student Ally training for faculty and staff.
• Open-door logo on display stickers, lapel pins and buttons around the University. Faculty and staff displaying the logo are allies who are informed and ready to address questions and concerns. Our message: "I am an undocumented student ally. You are always welcome here."
• Provide a comprehensive resource guide for faculty and staff accessible on this website.
• Provide up-to-date information and materials available to students, families and community members via this website and via email communications.
• Work with community legal aid partners to provide legal advice, screening, and assessment.
• Investigate and review Northeastern’s policies and practices that negatively impact undocumented students.
• Develop recommendations to modify or improve upon Northeastern’s policies and practices.

Northeastern’s undocumented student initiatives demonstrate not only a University-wide decision to take a stand in support of the University’s undocumented student population but also an institutional commitment to social justice. This initiative to promote change and update policies will provide an equitable learning experience for all Northeastern students.

Programming and Support

Some initiatives we have implemented throughout the years in support of our undocumented student community are listed below. We welcome partnerships with non-profit organizations and institutions of higher education who would like to continue adding to this list:

• Changes to the Admissions Application - there’s an option under Citizenship Information, providing students with the opportunity to self-identify as undocumented.
• Increased Scholarship Opportunities - Today, 100 percent of talent and merit do not require U.S. citizenship. A total of $1.35 million is available to all qualified students. In addition, 96 percent of NEIU Foundation scholarships ($115,200) do not require U.S. citizenship.
• How to pay for College Sessions - In February 2012, NEIU El Centro partnered with the Albany Park Neighborhood Council and the Logan Square Neighborhood Association to provide sessions for undocumented youth on how to apply to college and find the resources to pay for it.
• DACA Application Workshops - In the fall of 2012, Northeastern hosted two Deferred Action Application Workshops at El Centro. Two hundred students and their families were served. In the spring of 2015, El Centro, in partnership with Erie Neighborhood House and Longan Square Neighborhood Association (LSNA), hosted a DACA renewal workshop and a DAPA information session.
• DAPA Information Session - In the spring of 2015, Northeastern, in partnership with IL is Ready and the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR), hosted its first Deferred Action for Parents of Americans (DAPA) information session. Northeastern alumnus and U.S. Rep. Luis Gutierrez attended the event and provided updates on DAPA and the pending court case. Over 50 NEIU students, faculty, and staff volunteered for the event.
• Coming Out of the Shadows Day 2016 - In the spring of 2016, Northeastern observed National Coming Out of the Shadows, a day of action that began on March 10, 2010, by a group of youth organizers from the Immigrant Youth Justice League (IYJL), to demand the passing of the Dream Act and comprehensive immigration reform.
• Coming Out of the Shadows Month 2017 - In the spring of 2017, we began a calendar of events to create awareness of the issues undocumented immigrant youth and their parents undergo in the country. All the events were done in collaboration with the Undocumented Resilient and Organized (URO) student organization. Some of our events are listed below:
  • Know-Your-Rights Training lead by nonprofit organization Communities United.
  • What is a Sanctuary? Panel formed by city officials, community activists and nonprofit leaders.
  • Citizen Workshop lead by LSNA, Erie Neighborhood House, and ICIRR, at El Centro.
  • An Evening with Poet Yosimar Reyes. In collaboration with Gamma Phi Omega International Sorority, Inc.
  • Fotos y Recuerdos: A trip to the motherland I once knew. Panel formed by DACAmented youth who traveled to México under advance parole, share their photographs and memories of their first trip back to México.
• Coming Out of the Shadows Month 2018 - All of the events were done in collaboration with the Undocumented Resilient and Organized (URO). Some of our programming is listed below:
  • A reading by Marcelo Hernandez Castillo - In collaboration with the Department of English, the author's visit entailed a creative writing workshop, an intimate luncheon and Q&A with students only, and a community-wide reading by the A. Pouling Jr. Poetry Prize winner.
  • Author Dra. Aurora Chang, on her new book: “The Struggles of Identity, Agency, and Education in the Lives of Undocumented Students: The Burden of Hyperdocumentation” - In collaboration with El Centro.
  • Coming out of the Shadows March and Rally - A youth -ed event done with the support and collaboration of North River Commission, Youth of the 33rd Ward, Roosevelt High School students and Von Steuben High School students, and the Albany Park Neighborhood Council.
• DACA Renewal Application Scholarship Fundraiser - In collaboration with URO, CHIMEXLA, and The Dream.US scholars, we raised close to $8,000 to support students with their DACA renewals.