News & Insights

1. Eligibility for Higher Education

Asylum applicants with a pending case are generally allowed to enroll in educational programs, including Master’s degrees, provided they meet the admission requirements of the educational institution.

No Immigration Status Requirement for Admission:

• Most U.S. colleges and universities do not require you to have a specific immigration status to apply for admission.

Valid Identification:

• Be prepared to submit identification documents, such as your passport or the receipt notice (Form I-797C) from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) confirming your pending asylum case.

2. Financial Aid and Scholarships

While asylum seekers do not qualify for federal financial aid (FAFSA), there are still ways to fund your education:

Institutional Scholarships:

• Many colleges and universities offer scholarships based on merit, need, or other criteria that do not depend on immigration status. Research the financial aid policies of the schools you are interested in.

Private Scholarships:

• Numerous organizations provide scholarships specifically for immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers. Some notable examples include:
• The Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans
• Refugees International Scholarship Programs
• The Dream.Us Scholarship

Assistantships and Fellowships:

• Graduate programs may offer teaching or research assistantships, which often come with tuition waivers and stipends. Inquire about these opportunities during the application process.

Private Loans:

• Although more challenging to secure, some lenders provide private student loans to individuals without requiring U.S. citizenship or permanent resident status. However, these often require a co-signer with a strong credit history.

3. Work Authorization (EAD) and Part-Time Work

If your asylum application has been pending for 150 days or more, you can apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) using Form I-765. Having an EAD can:

• Allow you to work part-time while studying.
• Make you eligible for certain internships or assistantship programs that require work authorization.

4. Practical Considerations

School Policies:

• Some institutions may require international students to comply with certain procedures. As an asylum seeker, you may be categorized differently than F-1 or J-1 visa holders, so ensure the admissions office is aware of your pending asylum status.

State-Specific Benefits:

• Certain states may offer in-state tuition or additional financial resources for asylum seekers. Check local policies and consult with the institution’s financial aid office for more details.

5. Legal Considerations

Your pending asylum status should not hinder your ability to pursue education. However, ensure that your studies align with your personal timeline and plans related to your asylum case.

Authoritative Sources:

• United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) EAD for Asylum Applicants
• The Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans Scholarships
• The Dream.Us Scholarship for Refugees and Asylum Seekers

Conclusion:

Pursuing a Master’s degree while your asylum application is pending is entirely possible. With careful planning, research, and leveraging available resources like scholarships and assistantships, you can achieve your educational goals. Be proactive in communicating with the universities and seek guidance from their admissions and financial aid offices.