Financial aid for international, DACA and undocumented students
The University of Nevada, Reno values the enrichment that comes from having diverse and talented students. We recognize that many need financial assistance in order to participate in higher education. DACA, international and undocumented students are not eligible for federal financial aid in the form of Pell Grants or federal student loans.
However, there are funds from institutional, state and private sources that are accessible to them if certain requirements are met.
Institutional Methodology applications
You can submit the Institutional Methodology (IM) application online via a DocuSign form.
Institutional Methodology Forms by Year
2023-24 Institutional Methodology Form [DocuSign] 2024-25 Institutional Methodology Form [DocuSign]Funding options
Our institutional need-based funds are generally distributed based on financial need determined by the FAFSA. The FAFSA can only be filed by citizens or eligible non-citizens so we are pleased to offer an annual institutional calculation to determine financial need for our non-FAFSA eligible students: The Institutional Methodology for FAFSA-Ineligible Students.
This calculation will be used to determine eligibility by demonstrating financial need. The institutional calculation assesses ability — not willingness — to contribute. This is similar to the criteria used by the U.S. Department of Education with the FAFSA.
- Nevada residents may be eligible to receive up to $11,000 through the Nevada Guarantee program.
- Nevada Guarantee is our promise to award enough gift aid (money that does not have to be paid back) to fully cover your 2024-2025 tuition, fees, and books. The initial award amount for this program is $3,000. Before classes begin in the fall, if your total gift aid is less than $11,000, we will increase your gift aid award by the difference, making your total 2024-2025 gift aid offer a total of $11,000.
- Students who are not Nevada Residents who demonstrate need can receive up to $3,000 in grant funding.
- In addition, students may be awarded institutional non-need work study funds, which can aid in obtaining an on-campus position for students with a valid work permit.
Application process for institutional aid
In order to complete the application, you must be admitted to a degree-seeking program at the University of Nevada, Reno and have a valid NSHE ID. For priority consideration, the Institutional Methodology for FAFSA-Ineligible Students must be submitted by February 15 each year.
F-1/J-1 international student visa holders are not eligible to receive institutional funding in their first academic year.
University of Nevada, Reno merit-based scholarships
- New students. See our scholarships information for new freshman students.
- Current students. Primarily based on University of Nevada, Reno GPA. Complete the Annual Scholarship Application in MyNEVADA (Tasks > Supplemental Forms) between October 1 and February 15.
The Millennium Scholarship is a a state of Nevada scholarship available to students who graduated from a Nevada high school and meet the GPA or test score requirement. New students must complete the Acknowledgement of Award on the Millennium Scholarship website.
Private loans
DACA students are eligible to apply for private loans with a creditworthy cosigner who is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. For more information about private loans contact the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships at (775) 784-4666.
External scholarships
Scholarships are offered each year by a variety of non-university affiliated community and private organizations.
Additional resources for undocumented and DACA students
For additional information or resources, please contact the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX at (775) 784-1547.