Undocumented
Bellingham Technical College welcomes you to campus! BTC is dedicated to assisting undocumented students in achieving their educational goals. In addition to providing educational support, BTC recognizes the financial challenges undocumented students face. In order to minimize funding barriers for undocumented students, BTC provides assistance through various funding options such as the State Need Grant and scholarships available on campus.
There is no federal or state law that prohibits undocumented student admissions to public or private universities in Washington state. Tuition rates may vary depending on status.
BTC understands the importance of confidentiality and maintains it for undocumented students on campus.
Admissions
Admissions to Bellingham Technical College is open to anyone regardless of undocumented status. The application process takes place online. Follow the Admissions Steps or use the BTC Admissions Checklist as a printable guide. To be eligible to register for classes, admissions steps one, two and three need to be completed.
RCW 28B.15.012 (2)(e)
Washington state law changed the definition of “resident student” in July 2021. RCW 28B.15.012 (2)(e) allows certain students eligible for resident student status to pay resident tuition rates when they attend public colleges or universities in this state. This allows undocumented students to pay in-state tuition rates. This law only relates to tuition costs. It does not make undocumented students eligible for federal financial aid or make these students eligible to work legally in the United States.
Do I qualify for in-state tuition under RCW 28B.15.012 (2)(e)?
- Earn a high school diploma, GED, or diploma equivalent before your first term at the college determining residency, AND
- Maintain a primary residence in Washington State for at least 12 consecutive months immediately before your first term at the college determining residency.
If you meet the above requirements, then YES, you qualify for in-state tuition under RCW 28B.15.012 (2)(e)
I'm eligible. What do I do now?
After you fill out the admission application for the college, you may be asked to complete the Washington Higher Education Residency Affidavit. Note: If you are still in high school, you will need to wait until you graduate in order to turn the affidavit in.You can download the Washington Higher Education Residency Affidavit or get it from the admissions office. It should also be available to you at any high school, college, or university in the state.
Lastly, submit residency affidavit to your college admissions office. The admissions office is located on the first floor of the College Services Building.
Where can I go if I have questions?
Contact 360.752.8345 and make an appointment to come in. We can answer your questions, and help you fill out any paperwork you need including your college application, your Washington Application for State Financial Aid (WASFA), and more! We can also help you find scholarship opportunities that will help you pay for school.
Funding
Funding is available for those who qualify. Learn about the various funding options such as the Washington State Need Grant, the Opportunity Grant Scholarship and other scholarship opportunities available for undocumented students at BTC.
The Real Hope Act provides funding through the Washington State Need grant for low-income, non-citizen students. Undocumented students can also apply for assistance through the Opportunity Grant and outside scholarship opportunities.
How do I apply?
In order to be eligible for the State Need Grant, you must complete the online WASFA application. Additional documentation may be needed.
Who do I contact?
If you have any questions, please contact 360.752.8345
Scholarships and Resources for Undocumented Students
You may be eligible for scholarships and other opportunities.
Opportunity Grant Scholarship
Students may receive funds to cover tuition and mandatory fees up to 45 credits and up to $1,000 for books and supplies.
Foundation Scholarships
The BTC Foundation offers numerous scholarships. Applications will be accepted beginning in April through June. Check the website for current deadlines and how to apply.
Institutional Work Study for DACA Recipients
Students may be eligible for part-time on-campus employment.
College Bound Scholarship
The College Bound Scholarship program is an early commitment to support students who pledge to maintain the scholarship expectations. Those with DACA status may be eligible.
Northwest Immigration Rights Project
Northwest Immigration Rights Project promotes justice for low-income immigrants by pursuing and defending their legal status. It focuses on providing direct legal services, supported by its education and public policy work.