PRESS RELEASE: ORSAA FINANCIAL AID FOR UNDOCUMENTED STUDENTS

(Email from Christopher Natelborg, Assistant Manager of Financial Aid)

What is the ORSAA (Oregon Student Aid Application)?

The ORSAA is an alternative to the FAFSA for undocumented Oregon students, including students who have Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status or Temporary Protected Status (TPS). Eligible undocumented and DACA students in Oregon can get help to pay for college from the Oregon Opportunity Grant, the Oregon Promise Grant, and other state grants and scholarships.

How does a student know if they should file the ORSAA?

If a student is not sure if they should file the FAFSA or the ORSAA, they can complete the FAFSA/ORSAA Quiz for assistance determining which application to file.

How do students complete the ORSAA?

To complete the ORSAA, students simply visit https://oregonstudentaid.gov/fafsa-orsaa.aspx and click “File the ORSAA” at the top of the page.

When should students complete the ORSAA?

The ORSAA opens on or after October 1 each year. The 2021-22 ORSAA is currently open for students – is the application for aid in Fall 2021 through Spring 2022. Students should complete the ORSAA as soon as possible to maximize their potential aid opportunities. We highly recommend that students complete the 2021-22 ORSAA before March 2021 in order to be considered for the Oregon Opportunity Grant. Applicants who file after March may not be considered for Oregon Opportunity Grant.

What about student currently in high school?

If students are about to graduate high school or complete their GED, there are varying deadlines to complete the ORSAA in order to be considered for the Oregon Promise Grant next year – visit https://www.mhcc.edu/OregonPromise/ for more details.

Learn more about Financial Aid for Undocumented and DACA Students!