Exemptions from nonresident tuition and fees; scholarship eligibility

(1)(a) Except as provided in paragraphs (b) and (c) of this subsection, the Oregon Health and Science University Board of Directors may exempt a student who is not a citizen or a lawful permanent resident of the United States from paying nonresident tuition and fees for enrollment at Oregon Health and Science University consistent with policies adopted by the board or by university officials acting under authority of the board. (b) A student who is a COFA islander and who has not previously established residence in any state or territory of the United States or the District of Columbia other than Oregon shall qualify for exemption from nonresident tuition and fees for enrollment as an undergraduate student and as a graduate student in a degree program at Oregon Health and Science University. (c) A student who is a refugee, asylum seeker or special immigrant visa holder and who has not previously established residence in any state or territory of the United States or the District of Columbia other than Oregon shall qualify for exemption from nonresident tuition and fees for enrollment as an undergraduate student and as a graduate student in a degree program at Oregon Health and Science University. (2) A student who is not a citizen or a lawful permanent resident of the United States, or who is a refugee, asylum seeker, special immigrant visa holder or COFA islander, is eligible to receive scholarships and other financial aid from the university consistent with policies adopted by the board or university officials acting under the authority of the board. (3) As used in this section, “asylum seeker,” “COFA islander,” “refugee” and “special immigrant visa holder” have the meanings given those terms in ORS 352.287.