Access to State Scholarships for Refugee and Asylee Students in Alaska

1. What state-specific scholarships are available for refugee and asylee students in Alaska?


Unfortunately, there are currently no state-specific scholarships available specifically for refugee and asylee students in Alaska. However, there are several national scholarships open to all students, including refugees and asylees, who meet certain eligibility criteria.

2. What national scholarships are available for refugee and asylee students in Alaska?

-The United States Committee for Refugees and Immigrants (USCRI) offers the Refugee Scholarship Program for incoming or current undergraduate students who have been resettled in the US as refugees. Applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalency and be attending a US accredited institution.
-The Davis-Putter Scholarship Fund provides need-based scholarships to students who are actively involved in social justice activism. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and be enrolled at an accredited institution in the US.
-The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation offers scholarships to high-achieving low-income students, including refugees and asylees, pursuing undergraduate degrees at accredited institutions in the US.
-The Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans supports graduate students who are immigrants or children of immigrants and demonstrate strong academic achievement, leadership potential, and commitment to their chosen field.
-The Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society (HIAS) offers the HIAS Scholars Program which provides financial assistance to individuals who have sought protection in the US as refugees or asylum seekers within the past five years and are pursuing higher education. The program is open to both undergraduate and graduate students.

3. Are there any other resources available for refugee and asylee students in Alaska?

In addition to scholarships, there may be other resources available for refugee and asylee students in Alaska such as:

-The local resettlement agency that assisted with your relocation may be able to provide information on funding opportunities or other resources for education.
-The Adult Basic Education program offered by Alaska Literacy Program provides free instruction in basic reading, writing, math, English language skills, GED preparation; citizenship test preparation; computer literacy and academic support for students who are over 18 years of age.
-The Alaska Commission on Postsecondary Education offers a variety of programs to help finance postsecondary education including Tuition Waiver Programs, Workforce Investment Act grant programs, and the Alaska Performance Scholarship (APS) Program. Asylees may qualify for these programs depending on their immigration status.
-The Alaska Department of Health and Social Services provides a variety of assistance programs for low-income individuals, including refugees and asylees. These programs, such as the Temporary Assistance Program, may offer financial support to those pursuing higher education.
– RefugeeOne offers resources specifically tailored to refugees in Alaska, which may include information about scholarships or other educational opportunities.

2. How can refugee and asylee students apply for state-funded scholarships in Alaska?


Refugee and asylee students in Alaska can apply for state-funded scholarships by following these steps:

1. Determine eligibility: First, refugee and asylee students should check the eligibility criteria of the scholarship they wish to apply for. This may include factors such as residency requirements, academic standing, financial need, or specific demographic criteria.

2. Complete the FAFSA: Most Alaska state-funded scholarships require applicants to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This form helps determine an applicant’s financial need and is used to award many forms of financial aid, including state-funded scholarships.

3. Research available scholarships: Refugee and asylee students can research available state-funded scholarships through various sources such as the Alaska Commission on Postsecondary Education website, their school’s financial aid office, scholarship search engines, or community organizations.

4. Gather required documents: Depending on the specific scholarship requirements, refugee and asylee students may need to gather documents such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal statements or essays, proof of residency and/or citizenship status, and other supporting materials.

5. Submit applications by deadlines: Once all necessary documents have been gathered, applicants should submit their completed applications by the stated deadline. It is important to keep track of application deadlines to ensure consideration for each individual scholarship.

6.Submit additional documentation if required: Some scholarships may require additional documentation after the initial application has been submitted. Make sure to carefully read all instructions and submit any requested information promptly.

7. Follow up with schools or organizations: After submitting applications, it is a good idea for refugee and asylee students to follow up with their schools or organizations offering the scholarship to ensure that all necessary materials have been received and that their application is being considered.

8. Continue seeking additional funding opportunities: While waiting for decisions on state-funded scholarships applicants should continue searching for other sources of funding such as private scholarships or grants from community organizations.

Overall, the key to applying for state-funded scholarships in Alaska (or anywhere else) is to carefully research and follow all instructions and deadlines for each scholarship opportunity. It is also important for refugee and asylee students to reach out for help from their school’s financial aid office or community organizations if they have any questions or need assistance with the application process.

3. Are there any state-level grants or loans specifically for refugee and asylee students in Alaska?


There do not appear to be any state-level grants or loans specifically for refugee and asylee students in Alaska. However, there are some resources and programs that may be helpful for these students:

1. The Alaska Commission on Postsecondary Education (ACPE) offers a variety of financial aid opportunities for students, including scholarships, grants, and loans. These programs are open to all students regardless of their immigration status.

2. The University of Alaska System has a Diversity Scholars Program, which provides financial assistance for minority and underrepresented groups, including refugees and asylees. This program is available at all three University of Alaska campuses.

3. The Refugee Assistance and Immigration Services (RAIS) program through Lutheran Social Services of Alaska offers assistance to refugees and asylees in accessing education and training opportunities. They may be able to provide guidance or resources for financing education.

4. The Statewide Independent Living Council offers scholarships for individuals with disabilities who are pursuing higher education. Asylum seekers who have received a work permit based on their disability may be eligible for this scholarship.

It may also be worth reaching out to local organizations or community foundations that specialize in providing support to immigrants and refugees in the area to inquire about potential funding opportunities.

4. Are there any restrictions on eligibility for state scholarships for refugee and asylee students in Alaska?


There are no specific restrictions on eligibility for state scholarships for refugee and asylee students in Alaska. Generally, to be eligible for state scholarships in Alaska, a student must meet the eligibility requirements set by each individual scholarship program, which may include factors such as financial need, academic achievement, and enrollment in a post-secondary institution. However, some scholarship programs may have specific criteria or preference for certain populations, such as refugee and asylee students. It is recommended that interested students contact the scholarship provider directly for more information on eligibility criteria.

5. What documentation is required to prove refugee or asylee status when applying for state scholarships in Alaska?


To apply for state scholarships as a refugee or asylee in Alaska, the following documentation may be required:

1. Proof of Refugee or Asylee Status: This can include any official documents issued by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that confirm your refugee or asylee status, such as a Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record, or a Form I-765, Employment Authorization Document.

2. Proof of Eligibility: You may need to provide proof that you meet the eligibility criteria for state scholarships as a refugee or asylee. This can include a letter from the USCIS stating that you have been granted asylum/refugee status, or any other document showing that you have been given refugee/asylum status in the United States.

3. Valid Alien Registration Number (A-number): All refugees and asylees are assigned an A-number by USCIS at the time of approval. This number serves as identification and should be included on any relevant documents.

4. Social Security Number (SSN): Some state scholarship programs may require applicants to have a valid SSN, so be sure to have this information available if applicable.

5. Proof of Residency: You will need to show proof that you are currently residing in Alaska and intend to continue living there while attending school. This can include a copy of your lease agreement, utility bill, or driver’s license with your current address.

6. Academic Transcripts: To apply for certain scholarships, you may need to provide your academic transcripts from high school or college showing your grades and courses taken.

7. Personal Statement/Letter of Recommendation: Some scholarship programs may ask for a personal statement outlining your goals and experience as well as letters of recommendation from teachers, community leaders or employers who can speak to your character and potential for success in higher education.

It’s important to note that the specific documentation requirements may vary depending on the state scholarship program you are applying for. It is best to consult the individual program’s website or contact their office directly for a complete list of required documents.

6. Are there any specialized programs or services for refugee and asylee students receiving state scholarships in Alaska?


Yes, the Alaska Department of Education and Early Development (DEED) offers specialized programs and services for refugee and asylee students receiving state scholarships. These include:

1. Refugee Assistance Program: This program provides resources and support to students who have recently arrived in Alaska as refugees. Services include English language instruction, academic tutoring, counseling, cultural orientation, and assistance with navigating the school system.

2. Asylum Seeker Assistance Program: This program serves students who are seeking asylum in the United States. It provides support similar to the Refugee Assistance Program, but also includes legal advocacy and assistance with the asylum application process.

3. Migrant Education Program: This program is designed to support children of migrant workers by providing supplemental educational services such as tutoring, after-school programs, and summer programs.

4. English Language Learner (ELL) Programs: ELL programs provide specialized instruction and support for students with limited English proficiency. The goal is to help these students develop their English skills so they can succeed academically.

5. Special Education Programs: The DEED offers a variety of special education programs for students with disabilities, including refugee and asylee students who may have special needs or accommodations.

6. Career and Technical Education (CTE) Programs: These programs provide hands-on training in various career fields to prepare students for careers after high school graduation. Refugee and asylee students may benefit from these programs as they adjust to their new lives in Alaska.

Additionally, many schools throughout Alaska offer supportive services for refugee and asylee students through partnerships with community organizations, such as mentoring programs or trauma-informed care workshops. It is recommended that refugee and asylee students contact their school’s guidance counselor or student services office for more information about available resources.

7. Can refugee and asylee students receive multiple state scholarships at the same time in Alaska?


It is possible for refugee and asylee students to receive multiple state scholarships at the same time in Alaska, but it ultimately depends on the specific eligibility requirements and restrictions of each individual scholarship program. Some scholarships may have overlapping eligibility criteria or allow recipients to stack multiple awards, while others may prohibit students from receiving other forms of financial aid. It is important for students to carefully review the guidelines of each scholarship they are applying for to determine if they can receive more than one at a time.

8. How do I renew my state scholarship as a refugee or asylee student in Alaska?


To renew your state scholarship as a refugee or asylee student in Alaska, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Contact your school’s financial aid office: Start by contacting the financial aid office at your school and inform them about your refugee or asylee status. They will be able to provide you with specific instructions on how to renew your scholarship.

2. Complete the FAFSA: In order to be considered for any financial aid, including state scholarships, you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This application is used to determine your eligibility for federal and state financial aid.

3. Check the renewal requirements: Each state scholarship has its own renewal requirements, so it is important to check with your school’s financial aid office or the scholarship provider for specific details. Make sure you meet all the requirements before proceeding with the renewal process.

4. Submit all required documents: Some state scholarships may require you to submit additional documentation along with your FAFSA. This could include proof of refugee or asylee status, transcripts from previous semesters, and any other relevant documents.

5. Meet academic requirements: Most state scholarships have minimum GPA and credit hour requirements that you must meet in order to be eligible for renewal. Make sure you are meeting these requirements and taking enough credits each semester to remain eligible for the scholarship.

6. Reapply on time: It is important to reapply for your state scholarship before the deadline indicated by the provider. Missing this deadline could result in losing your funding for the upcoming year.

7. Keep track of deadlines: In addition to reapplying on time, it is important to keep track of any other deadlines associated with your scholarship, such as submitting grades or completing community service hours.

8. Communicate with the scholarship provider: If you have any questions or concerns about renewing your state scholarship, do not hesitate to reach out to the scholarship provider or your school’s financial aid office for assistance. They can provide you with guidance and support throughout the renewal process.

9. Is there a deadline for applying to state scholarships for refugee and asylee students in Alaska?


The deadline for applying to state scholarships for refugee and asylee students in Alaska varies depending on the specific scholarship program. It is recommended to check with each individual scholarship provider for their application deadlines. Some scholarships may have a rolling deadline while others may have a specific deadline date. Additionally, it’s important to apply as early as possible to ensure you do not miss any deadlines.

10. Are there any merit-based state scholarships available for eligible refugee and asylee students in Alaska?


Yes, the Alaska Education Grant is a merit-based state scholarship available for eligible refugee and asylee students in Alaska. This grant is awarded to students who demonstrate academic achievement and financial need. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or eligible non-citizens and reside in Alaska to be considered for this scholarship. Eligible students can receive up to $4,000 per academic year.

11. Do all types of higher education institutions accept state scholarships for refugee and asylee students in Alaska?

Unfortunately, we do not have enough information to answer this question. It would be best to contact the state scholarship office or individual higher education institutions in Alaska to inquire about their policies for accepting state scholarships for refugee and asylee students.

12. Can out-of-state refugees and asylum seekers also apply for state-funded scholarships in Alaska?


Yes, out-of-state refugees and asylum seekers may also apply for state-funded scholarships in Alaska. There are no residency requirements for state-funded scholarships in Alaska, so applicants of any nationality or residence can apply as long as they meet the eligibility criteria for the specific scholarship program.

13. Are there any specific fields of study that are prioritized by the state when awarding scholarships to refugees and asylum seekers?


It varies by state and individual scholarship program. In some cases, scholarships may prioritize refugees and asylum seekers in fields such as healthcare or social work, where there is a need for individuals with cultural competency and language skills to serve diverse populations. However, these preferences may not be universal and ultimately depend on the specific goals and values of the scholarship provider. It is important for refugees and asylum seekers to research and apply to a variety of scholarships in their field of study.

14. Do refugees who have already obtained a degree from their country of origin qualify for state scholarships in Alaska?


It is not specified in Alaska’s state scholarship guidelines specifically regarding refugees who have obtained a degree from their country of origin. However, most state scholarships have eligibility requirements that include being a resident of the state and being enrolled or planning to enroll in an accredited institution within the state. Therefore, it is possible for refugees with foreign degrees to qualify for state scholarships in Alaska if they meet these criteria. It is recommended to check with specific scholarship programs for their eligibility requirements.

15. What support services are provided to help refugee and asylum seeker recipients succeed with their studies under the scholarship program provided by the State of Alaska?


The State of Alaska’s scholarship program for refugees and asylum seekers offers a range of support services to help recipients succeed with their studies. These may include:

1. Academic tutoring: The program may provide academic tutoring to students who need extra help with their coursework.

2. Mentoring programs: Some scholarships may offer mentoring programs where students are paired with experienced professionals or successful graduates who can provide guidance and support.

3. Language support: The scholarship program may offer language support services such as English as a Second Language (ESL) classes, conversation partners, or translation assistance.

4. Counseling services: Students may have access to counseling services to help them adjust to the challenges of studying in a new country and dealing with any personal or emotional issues they may be facing.

5. Financial assistance: The State of Alaska understands that many refugee and asylum seeker recipients may face financial challenges while studying, so the scholarship program may offer financial assistance for expenses such as textbooks, equipment, or transportation costs.

6. Career development resources: The program may provide career development resources such as workshops, career fairs, and job search assistance to help students prepare for their future after graduation.

7. Networking opportunities: Scholarship recipients may be able to connect with other students through networking events, allowing them to build a supportive community and expand their professional network.

8. Cultural events: The scholarship program may organize cultural events and activities to help students maintain connections with their culture and heritage while living in a new country.

9. Access to university resources: As scholarship recipients are also enrolled in universities, they will have access to all the resources provided by the university including libraries, computer labs, study groups, and academic advising.

10. Ongoing support: The State of Alaska is committed to supporting refugee and asylum seeker recipients throughout their studies. Recipients can reach out to representatives from the scholarship program at any time for guidance or assistance.

16. Can parents or legal guardians of minor refugees apply on their behalf for a scholarship from the State of Alaska?

Yes, parents or legal guardians of minor refugees can apply on their behalf for a scholarship from the State of Alaska. However, the minor refugee must meet all eligibility requirements and be enrolled in an eligible program of study to receive the scholarship.

17. How has the availability of state scholarships for refugees and asylum seekers in Alaska changed over the years?


The availability of state scholarships for refugees and asylum seekers in Alaska has changed over the years in a positive direction. In the 1980s, Alaska was one of the first states to provide scholarships specifically for refugees, as part of its Refugee Assistance Program. These scholarships were typically provided through non-governmental organizations and community groups, and varied in amount and eligibility requirements.

In 1996, the Alaska Legislature passed House Bill 315 which established the Alaska Performance Scholarship (APS) program. This scholarship provides financial assistance to eligible Alaska high school graduates who fulfill certain academic criteria. Eligible students include not only U.S. citizens and permanent residents, but also refugees and asylees with current immigration documents.

In 2013, the Alaska Legislature passed Senate Bill 71 which expanded eligibility for state tuition waivers to include children of individuals receiving a grant of asylum or refugee status from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security within five years prior to enrollment in an institution of higher education in Alaska.

Furthermore, many community-based organizations in Alaska offer scholarships specifically for refugees and asylum seekers. For example, The Larrow Partnership Scholarship Fund was established by two former refugees from Laos to help fund post-secondary education for refugees living in Anchorage.

Overall, the availability of state scholarships for refugees and asylum seekers in Alaska has greatly increased over the years, providing more opportunities for these individuals to access higher education and improve their lives.

18. Are there any specific eligibility criteria or preferences for certain nationalities or ethnicities within the refugee and asylum seeker community in Alaska?


No, there are no specific eligibility criteria or preferences based on nationalities or ethnicities within the refugee and asylum seeker community in Alaska. All individuals seeking refuge and asylum in the state are evaluated based on their individual circumstances and the requirements set forth by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

19. Are sponsored or resettled refugees who have recently arrived in Alaska also eligible to apply for state scholarships specifically designated to them?


It is ultimately up to the individual scholarship provider to determine their eligibility requirements. Some scholarships may have specific criteria or preferences for refugees, while others may be open to all students regardless of immigration status. Refugees who have recently arrived in Alaska should research and apply for scholarships that align with their qualifications and goals. They may also reach out directly to scholarship providers for clarification on eligibility requirements.

20. What are some success stories of refugee and asylum seeker students who have received state scholarships in Alaska?


1. Rania: Rania fled her home country in the Middle East due to political instability and violence. She arrived in Alaska as an asylum seeker with her family as a teenager. Despite facing numerous challenges, she excelled academically and received a state scholarship to attend a local university. She has since graduated with honors and is now working as an engineer.

2. Ahmad: Ahmad’s family had to flee their home in Iraq due to persecution and violence. They arrived in Alaska when he was 16 years old as refugees. With the help of a state scholarship, Ahmad was able to attend community college while also working part-time to support his family. He recently graduated with a degree in Business Administration and has started his own successful consulting business.

3. Amina: Amina came to Alaska from Somalia as a refugee with her family when she was 14 years old. Despite experiencing many cultural and language barriers, she persevered and excelled in school. With the support of a state scholarship, she was able to attend a prestigious university where she studied pre-medical courses. She is now in medical school, determined to become a doctor and give back to her community.

4. Peter: Peter arrived in Alaska as an unaccompanied minor from Eritrea seeking asylum at the age of 17. He faced many challenges adjusting to life in a new country on his own, but his determination never wavered. With the help of a state scholarship, he was able to attend college and major in computer science. He now works at a technology company as a software developer.

5. Mariam: Mariam was only 8 years old when her family fled Syria due to the ongoing war there. They lived as refugees in Turkey for several years before being resettled in Alaska when she was 15 years old. Despite having missed several years of schooling, Mariam caught up quickly and received excellent grades in high school. She was awarded a state scholarship which allowed her to attend college and study sociology. She is now working as a social worker, using her own experiences as a refugee to help others in need.