Can You Apply to College Scholarships if You Aren’t a U.S. Citizen? 

 Posted on July 31,2026 in Uncategorized

Paying for college is difficult for many students. For young adults in America who aren’t U.S. citizens, college costs can be even more of a problem. Many people wonder whether scholarships are only for citizens or whether your immigration status will prevent you from getting the financial help you need.

The good news is that many scholarships are open to many non-citizens, including:

• Permanent residents

• International students

• DACA recipients

• Undocumented students

• Refugees

If you plan to attend college during the 2026-2027 school year, you may have more options than you think. OVC Scholarship Network can help you find and use these resources as you get ready to get the education you’ve always dreamed of.

Do You Have to Be a U.S. Citizen to Receive a Scholarship?

There is no rule that says every scholarship applicant must be a U.S. citizen. Scholarships are offered by many different groups, including:

• Colleges and universities

• Private companies

• Nonprofit organizations

• Community foundations

• Professional associations

• Religious organizations

• Local businesses

• Individual families and donors

Each organization decides who can apply to their scholarship. Some scholarships are limited to U.S. citizens, but many others allow citizens and permanent residents to apply and win. 

You may also find scholarships created specifically for international, immigrant, refugee, DACA, or undocumented students. For example, Immigrants Rising has a list of scholarships that don’t require proof of U.S. citizenship. Never reject yourself before reading the requirements. 

At OVC Scholarship Network, we have scholarships, including from Immigration Legal Advisors and the Law Office of Jae Lee, that are open to immigrants and children of immigrants. 

Which Noncitizens Can Receive Federal Student Aid?

U.S. citizens and certain "eligible noncitizens" may qualify for federal student aid, but undocumented immigrants are generally not eligible. Eligible noncitizens may include lawful permanent residents and people who are in the U.S. specifically to go to school.

Undocumented students, including DACA recipients, are not currently eligible for federal student aid. However, Federal Student Aid explains that they may still qualify for aid from a state, college, or private scholarship organization.

Can International Students Apply for Scholarships?

Some colleges offer scholarships specifically for international students. Like any other scholarships, these are often based on:

• Academic achievement

• Leadership

• Financial need

• Athletic ability

• Another talent

Other scholarships allow both U.S. and international applicants. College Board’s BigFuture scholarship listings, for example, include opportunities for students with F-1 visas and scholarships specifically for international students.

International students have fewer federal aid options, so scholarships offered directly by colleges are especially important. Check each college’s financial aid page before applying and talk to your guidance counselor if you aren’t sure whether you’re eligible. Some schools even consider international applicants for merit scholarships automatically.

Can Undocumented or DACA Students Get Scholarships?

Some private and school-based scholarships are open to undocumented and DACA students. A private organization or donor can offer funding without requiring proof of citizenship. Some community colleges and universities also provide scholarships specifically for undocumented or DACA students. 

Your state may also provide financial aid or in-state tuition opportunities. Some states have their own financial aid applications for students who cannot complete the FAFSA for federal aid.

Ask your high school counselor or college financial aid office about:

• State financial aid programs

• Institutional scholarships

• In-state tuition rules at different universities

• Immigrant support organizations

• Private scholarships without citizenship requirements

You don’t need to share your immigration status with every person involved in your scholarship search, but you do need to answer application questions honestly.

Find More College Scholarships with OVC Scholarship Network

You do not have to be a U.S. citizen to apply for all college scholarships. Many types of non-citizens can find opportunities to help pay for their education. You just need to read each scholarship’s requirements carefully and search for programs that fit your situation. 

At OVC Scholarship Network, we have practical information for all kinds of students getting ready to go to college, as well as for those already there. Contact OVC Scholarship Network today to learn more about how we can help.