In-State Tuition Policies for Undocumented Immigrant Students in Louisiana

1. What are the current state laws regarding in-state tuition for undocumented immigrant students in Louisiana?

Currently, undocumented immigrant students in Louisiana are not eligible for in-state tuition rates at public universities. However, there are efforts underway to change this policy.

2. Are there any proposed changes or legislation to extend state tuition benefits to undocumented immigrant students?
Yes, there have been proposed changes and legislation to extend state tuition benefits to undocumented immigrant students in Louisiana. In 2018, a bill was introduced (HB 646) that would allow certain undocumented students who meet specific criteria – such as graduating from a Louisiana high school and living in the state for at least three years – to pay in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities. This bill did not pass. In 2019, a similar bill (HB 421) was introduced and referred to committee, but it did not make it to a vote.

3. What is the DREAM Act and how does it relate to in-state tuition for undocumented immigrant students?
The DREAM Act (Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors Act) is a federal legislative proposal that would provide a pathway to citizenship for certain undocumented immigrants who were brought into the United States as minors, often called “Dreamers.” While the federal version of the DREAM Act has yet to be passed, several states have passed their own versions of the legislation which provide access to in-state tuition rates for these Dreamers.

4. How does Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) affect in-state tuition for undocumented immigrant students in Louisiana?
While DACA recipients are considered lawful presence under federal law, they are still classified as out-of-state residents when it comes to determining in-state tuition rates at public universities in Louisiana. Therefore, DACA recipients do not currently qualify for in-state tuition rates under state policies.

5. Is there any financial aid available for undocumented immigrant students in Louisiana?
Undocumented immigrant students are not eligible for federal financial aid programs such as Federal Pell Grants or Direct Loans. However, there are some scholarships and private aid programs available specifically for undocumented students, such as the Louisiana Dream Fund Scholarship. Students should also check with individual colleges for any institutional or private scholarship opportunities that may be available.

2. Is Louisiana one of the states that allows undocumented immigrant students to pay in-state tuition rates?


No, Louisiana does not currently have a state law allowing undocumented immigrant students to pay in-state tuition rates. However, some individual colleges and universities in Louisiana may offer tuition waivers or scholarships for undocumented students.

3. Are there any specific eligibility requirements for undocumented students to qualify for in-state tuition in Louisiana?

No, undocumented students do not have any specific eligibility requirements to qualify for in-state tuition in Louisiana. They are subject to the same residency requirements as all other students, which includes establishing a permanent residence in Louisiana and proving intent to remain in the state.

4. How does Louisiana determine residency status for undocumented students when it comes to in-state tuition?


Louisiana follows the guidelines set forth by the Louisiana Board of Regents for determining residency status for undocumented students. These guidelines consider various factors, including the student’s physical presence in the state, intent to make Louisiana their permanent home, and evidence of supporting themselves financially. Undocumented students who have attended a Louisiana high school for at least two years and received a high school diploma or equivalency certificate may also be eligible for in-state tuition through the Louisiana START program. However, ultimately it is up to the discretion of each individual public college or university to determine the residency status of undocumented students for tuition purposes.

5. Can undocumented students apply for financial aid or scholarships to help cover their in-state tuition costs in Louisiana?


No, undocumented students are not eligible for federal financial aid or most state-funded financial aid programs in Louisiana. However, they may be able to apply for merit-based scholarships and private scholarships from non-governmental organizations. Some colleges and universities in Louisiana may also offer institutional aid or scholarships specifically for undocumented students. It is important for undocumented students to contact the financial aid office at their chosen institution to inquire about available options.

6. Does Louisiana have any programs or initiatives specifically aimed at supporting education access for undocumented immigrant students?


Yes, Louisiana has implemented several programs and initiatives aimed at supporting education access for undocumented immigrant students. These include:

1. In-State Tuition: Under Louisiana law, undocumented students who have attended a high school in the state for at least two years and graduated may be eligible for in-state tuition rate at public colleges and universities.

2. Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA): Louisiana participates in the DACA program, which allows undocumented youth who came to the US as children to receive temporary protection from deportation and work authorization.

3. Dual Enrollment: Undocumented students who are enrolled in a Louisiana high school may be eligible to participate in dual enrollment programs, which allow them to earn college credits while still in high school.

4. TOPS Opportunity Award Extension: Undocumented students who lose their DACA status during their time at a Louisiana high school may still be eligible for the TOPS Opportunity Award, which provides financial aid for college.

5. Student Services for Dreamers (SSD): The SSD program provides resources, support, financial assistance and scholarships to undocumented students pursuing higher education in Louisiana.

6. Academic Scholarships: Some private organizations and foundations offer academic scholarships specifically targeted towards undocumented students in Louisiana.

7. College Access Program: The Louisiana Office of Student Financial Assistance offers a College Access Program that assists low-income families with the cost of college tuition and fees for first-time freshmen attending a Louisiana institution.

8. Educational Equity Services: This program provides instructional assistance and academic guidance to English language learners (including undocumented students) who are enrolled in public schools across Louisiana.

9. Multicultural Excellence Scholarship: This scholarship is open to all non-resident Latinx students entering any undergraduate or graduate program of study at Loyola University New Orleans.

10. New Visions Scholarship Program: This program offers full-tuition scholarships to qualified undocumented immigrants attending Southern University campuses throughout the state of Louisiana.

11. Roberto Clemente Scholarship Fund Program: This scholarship is designed to provide financial support, resources, and assistance to undocumented students of Latino/a origin attending Louisiana State University (LSU).

12. Dream Resource Center: Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center New Orleans established a Dream Resource Center which provides information and resources on DACA, admissions, scholarships, and other support services for undocumented students.

13. Community College Partnerships: Several community colleges in Louisiana have formed partnerships with non-profit organizations to provide support services for high school students from immigrant families pursuing higher education. Examples include the Bridge to Success program at Delgado Community College and the New Americans Initiative at South Louisiana Community College.


7. Have there been any recent changes or updates to the laws surrounding in-state tuition for undocumented immigrants in Louisiana?

According to research by the National Conference of State Legislatures, there have been no recent changes or updates to the laws surrounding in-state tuition for undocumented immigrants in Louisiana. The state currently does not have any laws allowing undocumented students to pay in-state tuition rates. In 1996, Louisiana enacted a law that prohibited public universities from granting admission or scholarships to undocumented students. This law has not been amended since then.

However, according to a report by Nola.com, in March 2019, the Louisiana Board of Regents approved a policy that would allow those who were brought into the country illegally as children and who qualify for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status to be eligible for in-state tuition pricing at Louisiana public colleges. This policy is set to go into effect on August 1, 2019.

It is important to note that this policy only applies to students with DACA status and does not extend to all undocumented immigrants living in Louisiana. Other requirements and restrictions may also apply. It is recommended that individuals interested in pursuing higher education should consult with their current educational institution or an immigration attorney for more information about eligibility and specific conditions.

8. How do other states compare to Louisiana when it comes to providing access to in-state tuition for undocumented students?

There is significant variation among states when it comes to providing access to in-state tuition for undocumented students. Some states, like California, Texas, and New York, have laws that explicitly allow undocumented students to pay in-state tuition at public colleges and universities. Other states, like Florida and Illinois, allow undocumented students to access in-state tuition through specific policies or administrative decisions made by each school. Still, other states only provide in-state tuition for qualifying undocumented students under certain circumstances.

The following are a few examples of how other states compare to Louisiana:

– California: Undocumented students who attended a California high school for at least three years and graduated from a California high school (or attained the equivalent) may be eligible to pay in-state tuition at public colleges and universities through AB 540.
– Texas: Undocumented students who meet certain eligibility requirements can qualify for in-state tuition under the state’s House Bill 1403/Senate Bill 1528.
– New York: The New York DREAM Act allows undocumented students who meet certain criteria to apply for state financial aid and scholarships as well as pay in-state tuition at public institutions.
– Florida: The state provides access to in-state tuition for undocumented students through the “differential out-of-state fee” waiver, which allows individual schools to waive the nonresident portion of their tuition rates for qualifying students.
– Illinois: Undocumented students who meet certain requirements can receive in-state tuition rates by signing an affidavit stating their intention to legalize their immigration status once it becomes possible.
– Mississippi: Qualifying undocumented students may pay in-state tuition if they have lived continuously in the state for four years prior to enrollment or have received a high school diploma or GED from a Mississippi institution.

Overall, there are currently fewer than 20 states that have policies allowing or providing access to in-state tuition for undocumented students.

9. Are there any ongoing debates or discussions about changing the current policies on in-state tuition for undocumented students in Louisiana?

There are currently no major ongoing debates or discussions about changing the current policies on in-state tuition for undocumented students in Louisiana. Some advocacy groups and legislators have previously pushed for legislation to allow undocumented students to receive in-state tuition, but these efforts have not gained significant traction. The current policy of denying in-state tuition to undocumented students is based on the interpretation of federal law and has been supported by state officials. However, this issue may continue to be discussed and debated in the future as national immigration policies evolve.

10. What impact has offering in-state tuition had on higher education enrollment rates among undocumented immigrants in Louisiana?


It is difficult to determine the specific impact that offering in-state tuition has had on higher education enrollment rates among undocumented immigrants in Louisiana. However, it is likely that offering in-state tuition would make higher education more accessible and affordable for undocumented immigrants, potentially leading to an increase in enrollment rates. This could be particularly beneficial for undocumented students who may face financial barriers to attending college due to their immigration status. Additionally, offering in-state tuition may also send a message of inclusivity and support for undocumented students, leading them to feel more welcome and encouraged to pursue higher education.

11. What are some potential challenges or barriers that may prevent an undocumented student from receiving in-state tuition status in Louisiana?


1. Lack of legal status: Undocumented students are not recognized as legal residents or citizens of the United States, so they do not qualify for in-state tuition unless certain criteria are met.

2. Residency requirements: Most states have strict residency requirements that applicants must meet in order to qualify for in-state tuition. For undocumented students, this can be difficult since they may have limited documentation to prove their residency.

3. Limited financial aid: Many states require students to show proof of financial independence in order to qualify for in-state tuition. This can be difficult for undocumented students who may not have access to traditional financial aid due to their legal status.

4. State laws and policies: The eligibility for in-state tuition is determined by state laws and policies, which vary from state to state. Some states may have stricter guidelines or restrictions for undocumented students compared to others.

5. Lack of awareness: Many undocumented students and their families may not be aware of the requirements and processes involved in applying for in-state tuition, making it difficult for them to navigate the system.

6. High application fees: Application fees for colleges and universities can be costly, making it a barrier for some undocumented students who come from low-income backgrounds.

7. Limited access to resources: Undocumented students may have limited access to resources that can help them with the application process, such as college counselors or legal services.

8. Language barriers: Some undocumented students and their families may face language barriers when trying to navigate the complex processes involved in applying for in-state tuition.

9. Fear and uncertainty about future changes: With constantly changing immigration policies at the federal level, some undocumented students may be hesitant to apply for benefits such as in-state tuition out of fear that their personal information could be used against them in the future.

10.Social stigma and discrimination: Undocumented students may face social stigma and discrimination from peers and college staff, which can make it difficult for them to seek help or information about in-state tuition.

11. Lack of support and advocacy: Undocumented students may also face a lack of support and advocacy from their colleges and universities, which can hinder their ability to receive in-state tuition.

12. Are public and private universities and colleges required to follow the same guidelines when it comes to offering in-state tuition to undocumented students in Louisiana?


Yes, public and private universities and colleges in Louisiana are required to follow the same guidelines for offering in-state tuition to undocumented students. The Louisiana Board of Regents has established guidelines for determining residency status for tuition purposes, which apply to all public higher education institutions in the state. Private institutions may have their own policies on offering in-state tuition to undocumented students, but they must also comply with federal and state laws and regulations.

13. How has the U.S. Supreme Court ruling on Plyler v. Doe impacted the implementation of state-level policies regarding educational opportunities for undocumented youth, including access to instate-tuition,in Louisiana?


Plyler v. Doe was a landmark U.S. Supreme Court case that ruled in 1982 that undocumented children have a constitutional right to access the same public education as U.S. citizens and permanent residents. The ruling has had a significant impact on the implementation of state-level policies regarding educational opportunities for undocumented youth, including access to instate-tuition, in Louisiana.

After the Plyler v. Doe ruling, states were required to provide public education to all students regardless of their immigration status. This means that undocumented youth in Louisiana have the right to enroll in public schools and receive an education from kindergarten through high school.

In terms of higher education, the ruling has also impacted the availability of instate-tuition for undocumented students in Louisiana. In 2010, then-Governor Bobby Jindal issued an executive order allowing undocumented students who graduated from Louisiana high schools and met certain requirements to pay instate-tuition rates at public colleges and universities. This policy was later codified into state law by Senate Bill 660.

However, there have been ongoing debates and challenges regarding this policy in Louisiana. In 2015, Governor John Bel Edwards rescinded Governor Jindal’s executive order and faced criticism from some state legislators who argued that providing instate-tuition for undocumented students is unfair to U.S. citizens and legal residents.

Ultimately, the Plyler v. Doe ruling continues to provide protection for undocumented students’ access to public education in Louisiana and other states across the country. However,state-level policies regarding instate-tuition for these students may still face political debate and challenges depending on changes in leadership or legislation.

14. Is there a limit on the number of spots available for undocumented students who qualify for instate-tuition at public institutions in Louisiana?

There is no specific limit set for the number of spots available for undocumented students who qualify for instate-tuition at public institutions in Louisiana. However, enrollment at public institutions is determined by various factors such as the availability of courses, class sizes, and overall capacity of each institution. Undocumented students who qualify for in-state tuition will be considered on an equal basis with all other eligible students and accepted based on space availability.

15. Has there been any backlash or opposition towards granting instate-tuition benefits to undocumented students in Louisiana?

There has been some opposition towards granting instate-tuition benefits to undocumented students in Louisiana. Some opponents argue that these students should not receive the same benefits as legal residents or citizens. Others argue that the state’s limited resources should be allocated towards legal residents and citizens first. There have also been concerns about the potential cost and impact on the state’s education budget. However, there has also been support from advocates who believe that offering instate-tuition to undocumented students is a humane and economically beneficial decision. Ultimately, it is a contentious issue with differing perspectives and opinions.

16. How does the economic impact of providing instate-tuition to undocumented students compare to the potential future earnings and contributions of these individuals in Louisiana?


The economic impact of providing instate-tuition to undocumented students must be weighed against the potential future earnings and contributions of these individuals in Louisiana. On one hand, providing instate-tuition to undocumented students will have immediate financial costs for the state, as they will be paying reduced tuition rates. However, on the other hand, these students have the potential to contribute significantly to the state’s economy through their future earnings and contributions.

According to a report by New American Economy, granting legal status to undocumented immigrants in Louisiana would generate $1.7 billion in increased income for all residents of the state over 10 years. This would also lead to an increase in state and local tax revenue of $103 million over a 5-year period.

Undocumented immigrants also play a significant role in industries such as agriculture, construction, and hospitality, which are crucial to Louisiana’s economy. By providing instate-tuition to these students, they are more likely to attend college and acquire skills that will enable them to secure higher-paying jobs in these industries.

Furthermore, many undocumented students who are able to attend college and obtain work authorization can contribute even more significantly to the state’s economy through taxes and consumer spending.

In summary, while there may be initial costs associated with providing instate-tuition to undocumented students, the potential long-term economic benefits far outweigh them. These individuals have the potential to become valuable contributors to Louisiana’s economy if given access to education and opportunities for employment.

17. Have there been any efforts to increase outreach and education about instate-tuition policies for undocumented students in Louisiana?

It is unclear if there have been specific efforts solely focused on increasing outreach and education about instate-tuition policies for undocumented students in Louisiana. However, a number of organizations and institutions in the state do offer resources and support for undocumented students, which may include information about instate-tuition policies. For example, the Louisiana Dreamers Alliance (LDA) provides resources and advocacy for undocumented students, including information about financial aid options and instate-tuition policies. Additionally, some colleges and universities in Louisiana have offices or programs dedicated to supporting undocumented students, which may also provide information about instate-tuition policies.

Furthermore, organizations such as the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Louisiana have advocated for instate-tuition equity for all students regardless of immigration status. In 2018, the University of New Orleans hosted a panel discussion on “Supporting Undocumented Students in Higher Education,” which included information about instate-tuition policies.

Overall, while there may not be a singular effort solely focused on increasing outreach and education about instate-tuition policies for undocumented students in Louisiana, various organizations and institutions are working to support these students and provide them with necessary information regarding higher education opportunities.

18. Are there any specific fields of study or majors that are excluded from receiving instate-tuition benefits for undocumented students in Louisiana?


There are currently no specific fields of study or majors that are excluded from receiving in-state tuition benefits for undocumented students in Louisiana. As long as the student meets the residency requirements set by the state, they are eligible for in-state tuition at public colleges and universities.

19. Do public K-12 schools in Louisiana offer any resources or support for undocumented students who may qualify for instate-tuition at the college level?


Yes, public K-12 schools in Louisiana typically offer resources and support for undocumented students who may qualify for instate-tuition at the college level. This support may include guidance counselors who can help students navigate the college application process, as well as access to resources such as scholarship opportunities and information about financial aid options specifically for undocumented students. Additionally, some schools may have programs or clubs in place to support undocumented students and provide a sense of community. It is important for undocumented students to reach out to their school’s administration or guidance office to learn more about these resources.

20. What recommendations has the state government received from advocacy groups or experts on how to improve access to higher education for undocumented immigrant students, including instate-tuition rates, in Louisiana?


There is limited information publicly available on specific recommendations that the state government of Louisiana has received from advocacy groups or experts on how to improve access to higher education for undocumented immigrant students, including instate-tuition rates. However, there have been some actions taken by advocacy groups and experts in support of this issue.

Some examples include:

1. The Louisiana Coalition for the Advancement of Undocumented Students (LaCAUSE) has submitted several proposals to the state government, including a bill to grant in-state tuition rates to undocumented students who meet certain requirements. They have also advocated for the creation of a state-level DREAM Act, similar to those passed in other states, which would provide financial aid opportunities to undocumented students.

2. In 2015, former Governor Bobby Jindal signed into law a bill that allows undocumented students who meet certain criteria to pay in-state tuition rates at public universities and colleges in Louisiana.

3. Several organizations and individuals, such as immigration attorneys and educators, have provided testimony and recommendations during public hearings and meetings held by state legislators on this issue. This includes advocating for expanding eligibility for in-state tuition rates beyond just DACA recipients and allowing all undocumented students who have attended high school in Louisiana to qualify.

4. The National Immigration Law Center (NILC), an organization that advocates for policies that benefit low-income immigrants, has provided technical assistance to lawmakers and advocates in Louisiana regarding implementing policies that support access to higher education for undocumented students.

While there is no comprehensive list or report on all the recommendations made by advocacy groups or experts on this topic for the state government of Louisiana, these examples demonstrate some of the efforts being made by various stakeholders to improve access to higher education for undocumented immigrant students in the state.