Impact of State Immigration Policies on Financial Aid Access in New Jersey

1. How do state immigration policies impact the ability of students to access financial aid in New Jersey?


State immigration policies can have a significant impact on the ability of students to access financial aid in New Jersey. In New Jersey, undocumented students are generally not eligible for federal financial aid, such as Pell Grants and federal loans. However, state immigration policies can play a crucial role in determining whether or not these students can access financial assistance.

One key factor is whether the state offers its own financial aid programs specifically for undocumented students. In New Jersey, there is a state law known as the Tuition Equality Act that allows undocumented students who meet certain criteria to pay in-state tuition at public colleges and universities. This law also makes these students eligible for state-funded financial aid programs, such as the Tuition Aid Grant (TAG) and Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) grant. These programs provide need-based grants to help cover tuition costs for low-income students.

However, despite this law, there are still some barriers that undocumented students face when trying to access financial aid in New Jersey. For example, some state-funded scholarships may require proof of citizenship or permanent residency status which can exclude undocumented students from eligibility.

Another important factor is whether the state has policies in place that allow undocumented students to apply for driver’s licenses or state ID cards. Many scholarship and grant applications require applicants to provide proof of identification, which can be difficult for undocumented students without these forms of identification.

Additionally, New Jersey’s Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program provides temporary protection from deportation and work authorization for eligible undocumented young people who came to the U.S. as children. Students with DACA status may be able to access certain types of financial aid in New Jersey, such as private scholarships and institutional aid from individual colleges and universities.

Overall, while there are some restrictions on accessing financial aid for undocumented students in New Jersey due to their immigration status, the Tuition Equality Act and other supportive policies have helped increase opportunities for these individuals to receive financial assistance for their education. It is important for students and families to research and understand the specific state policies in place, as well as any potential barriers they may face when applying for financial aid.

2. What barriers do undocumented students face in accessing financial aid in New Jersey?


Some barriers that undocumented students may face in accessing financial aid in New Jersey include:

1. Ineligibility for federal aid: Undocumented students are not eligible for federal financial aid such as grants and loans, which can limit their options for funding their education.

2. Limited availability of state and institutional aid: While some states and colleges do have specific scholarships or aid programs for undocumented students, these opportunities may be limited and may not fully cover the cost of attendance.

3. High tuition costs: Undocumented students usually pay out-of-state tuition rates, which are significantly higher than in-state rates. This can make it difficult for them to afford college, even with financial aid.

4. Lack of access to government-funded programs: Many state-funded scholarship and grant programs require applicants to have a Social Security number, which undocumented students typically do not have.

5. Restrictions on work-study opportunities: Undocumented students may face restrictions on participating in work-study programs, which can limit their ability to earn income while attending school.

6. Fear of disclosure: Some undocumented students may be hesitant to disclose their immigration status when applying for financial aid due to fear of deportation or discrimination.

7. Limited knowledge about available resources: Due to the complexity and constantly changing nature of immigration policies, many undocumented students and their families may be unaware of the resources and support available for funding their education.

8. Difficulty in obtaining legal documentation: Students without legal status may struggle to provide the required documentation for certain types of aid, making them ineligible for those opportunities.

9. Language barriers: Undocumented students who are non-native English speakers may face additional challenges in navigating the application process and understanding the requirements for financial aid.

10. Uncertainty about future eligibility: With shifts in immigration policies at both federal and state levels, there is often uncertainty surrounding whether undocumented students will continue to remain eligible for certain forms of financial aid throughout their academic career.

3. Are there any state-level programs or policies that promote financial aid access for immigrant students in New Jersey?


Yes, there are several state-level programs and policies in New Jersey that promote financial aid access for immigrant students. These include:

1. New Jersey Tuition Equality Act: This act, passed in 2013, allows undocumented students who meet certain criteria to pay in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities in New Jersey.

2. New Jersey Alternative Financial Aid Application: This program allows undocumented students, including DACA recipients, to apply for state financial aid through a separate application process from the federal FAFSA.

3. Student Assistance Grant for Dreamers: This grant program provides financial assistance to eligible DACA recipients who are attending college in New Jersey.

4. Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) Program: The EOF Program provides financial assistance and support services to low-income undergraduate students, including some undocumented students.

5. Tuition Aid Grant (TAG): Undocumented students who have attended a New Jersey high school for at least three years and graduated from a New Jersey high school are eligible for TAG when they attend college or university in the state.

6. Office of Higher Education Financial Aid Presentation Events: The New Jersey Office of Higher Education holds annual presentations specifically geared towards informing undocumented and immigrant students about applying for state financial aid opportunities.

7. Partnerships with community organizations: Some colleges and universities in New Jersey have partnerships with community-based organizations that provide support and resources to undocumented students, such as scholarship opportunities and workshops on navigating the financial aid process.

8. Accessible information on the NJ Higher Education Student Assistance Authority website: The NJ Higher Education Student Assistance Authority website provides comprehensive information on state-specific financial aid opportunities for all types of immigrants, including undocumented individuals.

4. How does the treatment of DACA recipients affect their eligibility for financial aid in New Jersey?


The treatment of DACA recipients may affect their eligibility for certain types of financial aid in New Jersey, as it does in other states. Specifically, there are several types of financial aid that are only available to U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens, which do not include DACA recipients.

For example, DACA recipients are not eligible for federal student aid programs such as Pell Grants or federal student loans. In addition, they are not eligible for state financial aid programs in New Jersey such as the Tuition Aid Grant (TAG) or Governor’s Industry Vocations Scholarship (NJ-GIVS).

However, there are some forms of financial aid that may still be available to DACA recipients in New Jersey. For instance, they may be able to receive institutional aid from the colleges and universities they attend. Some private scholarships may also be open to DACA recipients.

In addition, under the NJ Dream Act, signed into law in 2013, undocumented students who meet certain criteria can apply for state financial assistance through the Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF). This program provides access to grants and scholarships at participating universities for qualified students who do not have legal status.

It is important for DACA recipients in New Jersey to research and explore all potential sources of financial aid available to them and work closely with their college’s financial aid office for guidance and support.

5. Have recent changes in state immigration laws had an impact on financial aid opportunities for immigrant students in New Jersey?


Yes, recent changes in state immigration laws have had an impact on financial aid opportunities for immigrant students in New Jersey.

In May 2018, the New Jersey state government passed the “Financial Aid Filing Deadline Extension” bill, which extended eligibility for state financial aid to certain categories of undocumented students. This bill specifically applies to students who meet the requirements for in-state tuition at public institutions and have applied for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) or are eligible for DACA but have not yet applied.

Prior to this change, undocumented students were ineligible for state financial aid in New Jersey and were often unable to afford higher education due to their immigration status. The Financial Aid Filing Deadline Extension has opened up significant financial aid opportunities for these students, making college more accessible and affordable.

However, other changes in state immigration laws have had a negative impact on financial aid opportunities for immigrant students. For example, in 2019, New Jersey implemented a new requirement that all applicants for state financial aid must fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. This has made it difficult for some immigrant students without legal status or a valid Social Security number to apply for state financial aid.

Additionally, changes at the federal level, such as the rescission of DACA and proposed restrictions on visas and green cards, could also affect financial aid opportunities for immigrant students in New Jersey. These changes may lead to uncertainty and fear among immigrant communities, which could discourage them from pursuing higher education or applying for financial aid.

Overall, while recent changes in New Jersey’s state immigration laws have provided more financial aid options for certain categories of undocumented students, other changes at both the state and federal level could potentially limit opportunities in the future.

6. What percentage of undocumented students are able to receive financial aid in New Jersey, and how does this compare to other states?


According to a report by the National Conference of State Legislatures, New Jersey is one of 21 states that offer in-state tuition and/or state-funded financial aid to undocumented students. However, the specific percentage of undocumented students in New Jersey who are able to receive financial aid is not readily available.

In contrast, there are 29 states that do not offer any form of state-funded financial aid to undocumented students. This means that New Jersey is among the majority of states that do provide some assistance to undocumented students, but it is not clear how the percentage compares to other states. It is likely that the percentage varies depending on individual circumstances and eligibility requirements for each state’s financial aid programs.

7. Are there any organizations working towards improving financial aid access for immigrant students in New Jersey?

Yes, there are several organizations working towards improving financial aid access for immigrant students in New Jersey. They include:

1. The NJ Dream Act Coalition: This organization is focused on advocating for equal rights and access to higher education for undocumented students in New Jersey. They work towards increasing financial aid options and scholarships for immigrant students in the state.

2. The Latin American Legal Defense and Education Fund (LALDEF): LALDEF provides legal assistance to undocumented students and their families in New Jersey, including helping them understand their financial aid eligibility and options.

3. The New Jersey Higher Education Student Assistance Authority (HESAA): HESAA administers state financial aid programs, including the Tuition Aid Grant (TAG) program, which provides need-based grants to eligible New Jersey residents, regardless of immigration status.

4. The Office of Financial Aid at NJ Colleges and Universities: Most colleges and universities in New Jersey have dedicated offices of financial aid that provide resources and support for immigrant students seeking financial assistance.

5. Immigrant Rights Clinic at Rutgers Law: This clinic offers legal services to immigrants, including assisting with accessing financial aid for college or graduate school.

6. Garden State DACA Scholars Network: This network provides support and resources for undocumented students pursuing post-secondary education, including navigating the financial aid process.

7. NJ Safe and Trustworthy Resources For Everyone (NJ CARES): This organization works to connect undocumented immigrants with community resources, such as scholarships and other forms of assistance for pursuing higher education.

Overall, there are various organizations working towards improving financial aid access for immigrant students in New Jersey through advocacy, legal assistance, and direct support.

8. How does the political climate surrounding immigration in New Jersey affect the availability of financial aid for immigrant students?


The political climate surrounding immigration in New Jersey can affect the availability of financial aid for immigrant students in several ways.

1. Restrictions on access to federal financial aid: The national debate on immigration has resulted in stricter restrictions on access to federal financial aid for undocumented students, such as the repeal of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. This makes it difficult for immigrant students to receive federal grants and loans, thereby limiting their options for financial assistance.

2. State-specific financial aid policies: New Jersey is one of a few states that offers state-based financial aid programs, such as the NJ Tuition Aid Grant (TAG), to undocumented students who meet certain eligibility requirements. However, changes in the political climate could result in cuts or changes to these programs, making it harder for immigrant students to access them.

3. Decreased funding for public institutions: Immigrant students often rely on attending public institutions due to lower tuition costs and better support for international students. If state budgets are affected by hostile policies towards immigrants, this could result in decreased funding for public institutions and higher tuition costs.

4. Fear and stigma: The current political climate may create an environment of fear and stigma surrounding immigrant families. This can deter immigrant students from seeking out financial aid or scholarships that they may be eligible for, out of fear of being identified or targeted as undocumented.

5. Limited scholarship opportunities: Immigration policies may also impact the availability of scholarship opportunities specifically designated for immigrant students, as donors may be hesitant to contribute towards these types of scholarships due to uncertainty around immigration policies.

Overall, the political climate surrounding immigration can have a significant impact on the availability of financial aid for immigrant students in New Jersey, making it even more challenging for them to afford higher education.

9. Are there any scholarships or grants specifically designated for immigrant students in New Jersey?


Yes, there are several scholarships and grants available for immigrant students in New Jersey. Some examples include:

1. The Dream.US Scholarship: This scholarship is open to immigrant students who have graduated from a U.S. high school and plan to attend a partner college in New Jersey.

2. The Fulfilling the Promise Scholarship: This scholarship is open to New Jersey resident undergraduate students who are immigrants or children of immigrants and demonstrate financial need.

3. The Golden Door Scholars Program: This program provides scholarships for high-achieving undocumented students attending select institutions in New Jersey.

4. Dr. Gerald E. Lang Scholarships: This scholarship is awarded to students of diverse backgrounds, including immigrant students, who attend Rutgers University.

5. Costs Fund Scholarship: This scholarship is available to immigrant and refugee students enrolled in Union County College who demonstrate financial need.

It is important to research and apply for these scholarships early, as application deadlines and eligibility requirements may vary.

10. Do certain regions within New Jersey have different levels of accessibility to financial aid for immigrant students?


Yes, certain regions within New Jersey may have different levels of accessibility to financial aid for immigrant students. This could be due to various factors such as the availability of resources, funding and support for immigrant student programs in specific areas, or the demographics and population of immigrant students in each region. Additionally, there may be variations in state and local policies that affect the distribution of financial aid for immigrant students in different regions. For example, urban areas with larger populations of immigrants may have more support and resources available for these students compared to rural areas with smaller populations. It is important to research and consider the specific region when seeking financial aid for immigrant students in New Jersey.

11. How have changes in federal immigration policies affected the availability of state-based financial aid for immigrant students in New Jersey?


There have been several changes in federal immigration policies under the current administration that have had an impact on the availability of state-based financial aid for immigrant students in New Jersey. These include:

1. Elimination of DACA: The Trump administration has sought to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, which provides protections and work permits to undocumented immigrants who arrived in the US as children. As a result, many DACA recipients in New Jersey are no longer eligible for state-based financial aid.

2. Changes to Public Charge Rule: In 2019, the Department of Homeland Security announced changes to the public charge rule, which allows officials to deny green cards and visas to individuals who may become dependent on government benefits. This has caused many immigrant families to fear accessing state-based financial aid for fear it may negatively affect their chances of obtaining permanent residency.

3. Restriction on Non-Citizen Eligibility for Federal Aid: The Higher Education Act limits federal financial aid eligibility to US citizens and eligible non-citizens, such as green card holders or refugees. Undocumented immigrants do not qualify for federal student loans, work-study programs, or grants like Pell Grants.

4. Limited Options for Private Loans: Undocumented students and DACA recipients also face limited options for private loans due to stricter borrower requirements and lack of credit history.

These changes have significantly affected the availability of state-based financial aid for immigrant students in New Jersey, particularly undocumented students and those with DACA status. These individuals face significant barriers when it comes to financing their higher education because they are largely unable to access both federal and state-based financial aid options. As a result, many immigrant students struggle with affordability and may be forced to postpone or even give up their dreams of pursuing a college education.

12. Is there a correlation between the number of immigrants living in a particular county within New Jersey and their access to financial aid?

There may be a correlation between the number of immigrants living in a particular county within New Jersey and their access to financial aid, as immigrants may face barriers such as language barriers, lack of documentation, and limited knowledge of the financial aid process. However, this would depend on factors such as the specific demographics and policies in each county, as well as the overall availability of financial aid resources for all students in that county. Further research would be needed to determine the extent of any potential correlation.

13. How do state universities and colleges handle the distribution of financial aid to undocumented students in New Jersey?


State universities and colleges in New Jersey may provide financial aid to undocumented students through various programs and resources. These may include:

1. Need-based Aid: Undocumented students may be eligible for need-based financial aid such as grants, scholarships, or loans if they meet the eligibility requirements. Each institution may have its own criteria for determining financial need.

2. In-State Tuition: Some state universities and colleges in New Jersey offer in-state tuition rates to undocumented students who have graduated from a New Jersey high school and meet other eligibility requirements.

3. Private Scholarships: Undocumented students may also be able to apply for private scholarships offered by organizations or individuals that do not require legal status as a condition.

4. Institutional/State Aid Programs: Certain institutions and/or states may administer their own financial assistance programs specifically for undocumented students. For example, the Dreamers Financial Aid Act in New Jersey provides state-funded tuition aid grants to eligible undocumented students attending public colleges and universities.

5. Work-Study Opportunities: Undocumented students who are granted Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status may be eligible for federal work-study opportunities at their institution.

It is important for undocumented students in New Jersey to research the specific financial aid options available at the institution they plan on attending, as well as any eligibility requirements that may apply. They should also reach out to the school’s Office of Financial Aid for further information and guidance.

14. Are there any groups advocating for or against providing financial aid to undocumented students in New Jersey?

Yes, there are groups both advocating for and against providing financial aid to undocumented students in New Jersey.

Proponents of providing financial aid, such as organizations like United We Dream, New Jersey Dream Act Coalition, American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of New Jersey, and NJ Alliance for Immigrant Justice argue that all students, regardless of immigration status, should have access to higher education and the same opportunities to succeed. They believe that denying financial aid to undocumented students limits their ability to achieve their full potential and contributes to systemic inequity. These organizations also argue that investing in undocumented students benefits the state by creating a more educated workforce and strengthening the economy.

Opponents of providing financial aid to undocumented students include some conservative or anti-immigrant groups , such as Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR), who argue that using taxpayer dollars to fund higher education for undocumented students is unfair and goes against federal law. Some opponents also argue that it encourages more unauthorized immigration and takes away resources from citizens or legal residents who are struggling financially.

15. Could increasing funding for state-based scholarships improve access to financial aid for all students, including immigrants, in New Jersey?


Yes, increasing funding for state-based scholarships could potentially improve access to financial aid for all students in New Jersey, including immigrants. State-based scholarships are typically awarded to students based on merit or financial need, rather than citizenship status. As such, increasing the amount of funding available for these scholarships could provide more opportunities for all students, regardless of their immigration status, to obtain financial aid for college. Additionally, state-based scholarships may have less stringent eligibility requirements compared to federal scholarships or grants, making them more accessible to immigrant students who may face barriers in obtaining federal aid due to their citizenship status. By investing in state-based scholarship programs and increasing the amount of funding available, New Jersey can support a more diverse and inclusive higher education system that promotes equal opportunities for all students.

16. How does the high cost of out-of-state tuition impact undocumented students’ ability to afford college education without sufficient funding options available?


The high cost of out-of-state tuition greatly impacts the ability of undocumented students to afford college education. Many undocumented students come from low-income families who cannot afford to pay the expensive out-of-state tuition rates. This often leads to these students being unable to attend college, as they do not have access to federal financial aid or in-state tuition rates.

Undocumented students may also face additional barriers in securing funding options, such as scholarships and private loans, due to their immigration status. Many scholarships and grants require a social security number or citizenship status, making them inaccessible for undocumented students.

Without sufficient funding options available, undocumented students may be forced to take on large amounts of debt in order to pay for their education. This can cause financial strain and limit their opportunities after graduation.

Furthermore, the high cost of out-of-state tuition can also discourage undocumented students from pursuing higher education altogether. They may feel that obtaining a college degree is out of reach and may opt for lower-paying jobs or not pursue higher education at all.

Overall, the high cost of out-of-state tuition creates significant financial barriers for undocumented students and limits their ability to access higher education opportunities.

17. Has there been a significant increase or decrease over time on the number of undocumented students receiving financial aid in New Jersey?


In New Jersey, there has been a significant increase in the number of undocumented students receiving financial aid over the past few years. Data from the New Jersey Higher Education Student Assistance Authority shows that in 2016-2017, there were 1,456 undocumented students receiving state financial aid compared to 309 in 2013-2014. This represents a nearly fivefold increase in just three years.

This increase can be attributed to the implementation of the NJ Dream Act in 2014, which allows undocumented students to qualify for state financial aid if they meet certain criteria such as attending a New Jersey high school for at least three years and graduating or receiving a GED. This legislation has made it easier for undocumented students to access higher education and has led to more of them applying for and receiving financial aid.

Additionally, with increasing awareness and advocacy efforts surrounding immigration issues and the rights of undocumented students, more resources and support have become available for these students. Organizations such as TheDream.US provide scholarships specifically designed for undocumented students who do not qualify for federal financial aid.

However, it’s important to note that despite this increase, the number of undocumented students still make up a small percentage of total financial aid applicants in New Jersey. In 2016-2017, they only accounted for about 3% of all state financial aid recipients.

Overall, while there has been a significant increase in the number of undocumented students receiving financial aid in New Jersey over time, there is still room for improvement and greater support for these individuals pursuing higher education opportunities.

18. What steps can New Jersey take to ensure equal access to financial aid for all students, regardless of immigration status?

1. Expand state financial aid programs: One way to ensure equal access to financial aid for all students, regardless of immigration status, is to expand existing state financial aid programs. This could include increasing the budget for these programs or creating new ones specifically for undocumented students.

2. Provide loans and grants: New Jersey can offer loans and grants to undocumented students who are unable to qualify for federal financial aid due to their immigration status. These loans and grants should have affordable interest rates and be distributed on a need-based basis.

3. Eliminate citizenship requirements: The state can remove citizenship requirements from financial aid applications, making it possible for undocumented students to apply without fear of being denied solely based on their immigration status.

4. Allow state residency instead of in-state tuition: New Jersey can allow undocumented students who have attended high school in the state for a certain number of years to qualify for in-state tuition rates, even if they are not considered permanent residents.

5. Create a private scholarship fund: The state can establish a private scholarship fund that specifically targets undocumented students. This would allow individuals and companies to donate money towards helping these students finance their education.

6. Partner with private organizations: New Jersey can partner with private organizations that provide support and resources to immigrant communities, including scholarship opportunities. These partnerships could help raise awareness about available financial aid options for undocumented students.

7. Increase outreach efforts: The state can increase its outreach efforts to inform undocumented students about available financial aid resources and how they can apply for them. This could include working with high schools, community centers, and other organizations that serve immigrant populations.

8. Consider alternative eligibility criteria: Instead of using traditional eligibility criteria such as income or tax returns, the state could consider alternative criteria that would be more applicable for undocumented students, such as proof of academic achievement or leadership potential.

9. Develop bilingual materials: Creating informational materials in languages other than English would make it easier for non-English speaking undocumented students and their families to understand the financial aid process.

10. Train financial aid staff: The state can provide training for financial aid counselors on how to assist undocumented students and their families in navigating the financial aid process. This would ensure that all students receive accurate information and guidance on available resources.

11. Implement fair and transparent application processes: It is important for the state to have a fair and transparent application process for undocumented students seeking financial aid. This could include clear guidelines, deadlines, and procedures that are easily accessible to all applicants.

12. Protect student information: Undocumented students may be hesitant to disclose personal information on financial aid applications due to fears of deportation or other consequences. The state should ensure that all information provided by applicants is kept confidential and not shared with immigration authorities.

13. Advocate for federal policy change: New Jersey can also advocate for federal policy change to allow undocumented students access to federal financial aid funds. This would provide a long-term solution for equal access to financial aid for these students.

14. Collaborate with other states: New Jersey can collaborate with other states that have implemented successful initiatives to support undocumented students in accessing financial aid, sharing best practices and resources.

15. Remove barriers for Dreamers: The state should make it easier for Dreamers (undocumented immigrants who came to the US as children) to apply for scholarships, grants, or loans by removing any unnecessary requirements or restrictions.

16. Expand outreach efforts beyond high school: Financial aid opportunities may also benefit non-traditional immigrant students entering college later in life or attending community college or technical schools. Outreach efforts should be extended beyond high school settings to reach these populations as well.

17. Offer emergency support: The state could establish an emergency scholarship fund specifically designed to help undocumented students pay tuition costs if they face unforeseen circumstances such as family emergencies or sudden job loss.

18. Conduct research on effectiveness: Finally, conducting research on the effectiveness of these measures can help identify areas for improvement and inform future policy decisions to ensure equal access to financial aid for all students.

19. Are there any success stories of undocumented students who have received financial aid and completed their degree in New Jersey?


Yes, there are many success stories of undocumented students in New Jersey who have received financial aid and completed their degrees. Here are a few examples:

1. Maria Rojas: Maria came to the United States from Mexico when she was 6 years old and grew up in New Jersey. Despite facing numerous financial challenges, including being ineligible for federal financial aid, she was determined to attend college. With the help of private scholarships and funding from her university, Maria graduated with a degree in political science from Rutgers University-Newark in 2015.

2. Juan Gomez: Juan arrived in New Jersey from Mexico at the age of 13 and excelled in his high school academics despite not having access to certain resources due to his immigration status. In 2019, Juan graduated from Brookdale Community College with an associate degree in biology and is now pursuing a bachelor’s degree in environmental science at Rutgers University.

3. Yolanda Gonzalez: Yolanda moved to New Jersey from El Salvador when she was 11 years old and faced significant financial barriers as an undocumented student. She persevered and received private scholarships and grants, which allowed her to graduate from Montclair State University with a degree in Spanish literature in 2017.

4. Gabriel Mendez: Gabriel’s family immigrated to New Jersey from Honduras when he was 3 years old. Despite being ineligible for federal financial aid, Gabriel received state-level funding through the New Jersey Dream Act which allowed him to graduate with a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Kean University in 2020.

These are just a few examples of the many inspiring stories of undocumented students who have successfully completed their degrees with the help of various forms of financial aid available to them in New Jersey.

20. How does New Jersey compare to neighboring states in terms of financial aid accessibility for immigrant students?


New Jersey is among the more accessible states for financial aid for immigrant students compared to its neighboring states. The state offers in-state tuition and state-funded financial aid to eligible undocumented students through the New Jersey Alternative Financial Aid Application (NJAFAA).

In comparison, Pennsylvania and New York do not have state-level financial aid programs for undocumented students, but they do offer in-state tuition under certain circumstances. Delaware also does not have any state-specific financial aid or tuition policies for undocumented students.

Connecticut and Maryland both have state-funded financial aid options for undocumented students, but these are limited to specific categories such as DACA recipients or those with certain types of visas.

Overall, New Jersey stands out as one of the most supportive states in terms of providing higher education opportunities and financial assistance to immigrant students.