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Legislation Impacting Undocumented Students

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Legislation Information

To learn about your options regarding Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), how to apply for a Permanent Resident Card, and more, it is recommended to seek legal help. 

To find legal help in your area, visit the website Informed Immigrant to locate a service organization near
you.

Below you will find more information on legislation related to immigration. 

Students with notebook at table

Retention of Illinois Students and Equity Act:

The Retention of Illinois Students & Equity (RISE) Act, which went into effect in January 2020, means that if you are an Illinois resident but ineligible for federal financial aid, you may still apply for state assistance. For more details about the RISE Act, check out the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC)

Students studying

The Illinois General Assembly Public Act 093-07 (HB60):

This legislation passed in 2003 and it allows undocumented youth to pay in-state tuition at public universities in Illinois if they meet the following requirements:

  1. The individual had to have resided with his or her parents or guardian while attending a public or private high school in Illinois
  2. The individual had to have graduated from a public or private high school OR received the equivalent of a high school diploma (GED) in Illinois.
  3. The individual had to have attended school in Illinois for at least 3 years as of the date the individual graduated from high school or received the equivalent of a high school diploma.
  4. In case the individual is not a citizen or a permanent resident of the United States, the individual has to provide the university with an affidavit stating that the individual will file an application to become a permanent resident of the United States at the earliest opportunity the individual is eligible to do so.

DREAM Act:

The Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors (DREAM) Act is a legislative proposal that provides a path towards permanent legal residency and U.S. citizenship to eligible youth. It was first introduced in the Senate in August 2001 by Dick Durbin and Orrin Hatch. For more information, visit the DREAM Act Portal. 

Students walking in front of Dr. Myron Wentz Science Center

IL DREAM Act:

This legislation passed in August 2011 and it makes Illinois the first state in the country to create a private scholarship fund for undocumented youth. It sets three milestones: 1) allows parents of undocumented students to participate in the Illinois College Savings Pool and the Illinois Prepaid Tuition plan; 2) requires high school college counselors to be better trained and prepared to know what college options are available for undocumented students and children of immigrants; 3) establishes an Illinois DREAM Fund Commission to generate scholarships for qualified undocumented students. For more information, please visit Illinois DREAM Act.

Students walking on campus

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals - DACA:

On June 15, 2012, the Obama Administration announced that it would offer many DREAM Act- eligible youths protection from deportation through Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). It temporarily shields individuals from deportation and enables them to live and work legally in the U.S. and it is valid for two years. But can be renewed. Eligible youths are able to get a valid Social Security Number, work permit, and driver's license. DACA does not put someone on track towards a green card or U.S. citizenship. Not everyone qualifies for DACA. For more information on DACA eligibility, please visit here.

Students sitting together

Senate Immigration Bill - S. 744

On April 18, 2013, a group of eight U.S. Senators including Illinois Senator Richard Durbin introduced the "Border Security, Economic Opportunity, and Immigration Modernization Act." This 844-page bill includes a path to citizenship for many undocumented immigrants as well as several other major changes to our immigration system. Please visit the Immigration Policy Center for a Guide to S.744. 

Students walking on campus

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at North Central College

North Central College strives to grow in diversity, equity and inclusion through the work of our faculty and staff, the openness and honesty of our students, the support of our alumni, and the continuing commitment of the entire North Central community. Share our journey with us and discover how we are working to be the change and become a true college of destination. 

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