College (Higher Education)

College serves students pursuing degrees or vocational training, typically post-high school.

Typical Ages

• Ages 18+ (no upper limit).

Mandatory Attendance

• Not required; college is optional.
• Link: Higher education info at U.S. Department of Education: https://www.ed.gov/.

Step-by-Step Guide

• Understand Eligibility:
  • Refugees with lawful status (I-94, ORR Verification) can enroll and apply for federal aid.
  • Link: Refugee eligibility at Federal Student Aid: https://studentaid.gov/understand-aid/eligibility/requirements/non-us-citizens.
• Contact Your Resettlement Agency:
  • Ask about ORR’s Refugee Support Services or Wilson-Fish programs.
  • Link: ORR programs at Administration for Children and Families: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/orr.
• Equivalency Check for Prior Education:
  • Process: Colleges evaluate South African credentials (e.g., National Senior Certificate) via services like World Education Services ($200) or require a GED.
  • Challenges: Non-recognized credentials may require GED ($50-$150).
  • Link: Credential evaluation at World Education Services: https://www.wes.org/.
• Vaccination Requirements:
  • Mandatory: MMR, Meningitis, Tdap for on-campus attendance.
  • Verification: Provide records or get screenings via ORR clinics.
  • Exceptions: Medical, religious, or online program waivers.
  • Link: College vaccination rules at CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/adults/rec-vac/college.html.
• Gather Documents:
  • High school diploma/GED, proof of refugee status, ID.
  • Complete FAFSA for aid.
  • Link: FAFSA application at Federal Student Aid: https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa.
• Apply and Enroll:
  • Apply to colleges (community colleges recommended for affordability).
  • Link: Find colleges at College Board: https://www.collegeboard.org/.
• Access Support:
  • ORR Programs: May fund tuition or books.
  • Scholarships: Refugee-specific funds.
  • Link: Scholarships at Horatio Alger Association: https://horatioalger.org/.
• Prepare for College:
  • Supplies: Textbooks, laptop, notebooks.
  • Cost: $200-$1,000/year for supplies; tuition ($2,000-$5,000/year for community colleges).
  • Transportation: $50-$100/month.

Key Notes

• Cost: Tuition ($2,000-$5,000/year), supplies ($200-$1,000).
• Challenges: Language and credential recognition.
• Contact: College admissions, resettlement agency.