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

According to the Maryland Dream Act, passed in 2012, undocumented immigrant students who meet certain criteria are eligible for in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities in Maryland. These criteria include attending a Maryland high school for at least three years, graduating from a Maryland high school or obtaining a GED in the state, and providing documentation of tax payment or filing by themselves or their parent/guardian for at least three years prior to enrollment.

In 2019, the General Assembly also passed legislation allowing DACA recipients (undocumented immigrants who came to the US as children) to be eligible for in-state tuition rates at community colleges and public universities regardless of their participation in the Maryland Dream Act program.

Additionally, Baltimore County has its own local law that allows undocumented immigrant students who reside in the county and meet specific criteria to be eligible for in-state tuition rates at community colleges and public universities within the county.

2. Are there any special scholarships available for undocumented immigrant students in Maryland?

Yes, there are several scholarships specifically designed for undocumented immigrant students who live in Maryland. These include:

– The Maryland DREAM Act Scholarship: This scholarship is available to undocumented immigrant students who qualify for the Maryland Dream Act program (see question 1). It covers up to 100 percent of tuition and mandatory fees at participating community colleges and public universities.
– Supporting Access to Higher Education (SAHE) Scholarship: This scholarship is available to individuals who do not qualify for federal financial aid due to immigration status but meet other eligibility criteria such as attending a qualifying high school or earning a GED.
– ¡Adelante!/Wells Fargo Hispanic Leaders Fund: This scholarship is open to Hispanic/Latino students regardless of immigration status. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and academic excellence.
– MALDEF Law School Scholarship Program: This scholarship is open to law students of Latino descent, including DACA recipients. Selection criteria include leadership potential, academic achievement, and financial need.
– TheDream.US Maryland Scholarship: This scholarship is available to undocumented immigrant students who have applied for DACA or TPS (Temporary Protected Status) and are enrolled in one of the partner colleges in Maryland. It covers up to 100 percent of tuition, fees, and a $1,000 book allowance.

3. Can undocumented immigrant students receive state financial aid in Maryland?

Undocumented immigrant students are not eligible for federal financial aid, such as Pell Grants or federal student loans. However, a few states, including Maryland, allow these students to receive state financial aid if they meet specific criteria.

In Maryland, undocumented immigrant students may be eligible for state-funded scholarships and grants if they qualify for the Maryland Dream Act program (see question 1). They may also be eligible for certain institutional aid offered by individual colleges and universities.

4. Are there any partnerships between community organizations and colleges/universities in MD to support undocumented immigrants?

Yes, there are several partnerships between community organizations and colleges/universities in Maryland that provide support services and resources to undocumented immigrant students. Some examples include:

– Undocumented Student Resources at University of Maryland: The university has a dedicated website with information about admissions, finances, academic support, student organizations, and more.
– DREAMers Initiative at Montgomery College: This initiative provides support services such as academic advising, counseling, financial assistance programs and resources for undocumented immigrant students.
– CASA College Communities Program at Prince George’s Community College: This program partners with local community organizations to provide resources such as legal assistance clinics, mentorship programs, financial coaching sessions and more.
– Hispanic/Latino Student Union at Towson University: This student organization advocates for the rights of Latino/Hispanic students on campus including those who are undocumented. They also offer educational workshops on immigration policies and advocacy efforts
for equality.

These collaborations aim to provide a safe and welcoming environment for undocumented immigrants seeking higher education in Maryland and to help them navigate any challenges they may face.

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

Yes, Maryland is one of the states that allows undocumented immigrant students to pay in-state tuition rates. In 2011, the state passed a law known as the Dream Act, which allows undocumented students who have attended and graduated from a Maryland high school or received a GED within the state to be eligible for in-state tuition at public colleges and universities.

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

Yes, there are specific eligibility requirements for undocumented students to qualify for in-state tuition in Maryland. These requirements include:

1. Attendance at a Maryland high school for at least three years and graduation from a Maryland high school or receipt of a GED in the state.

2. The submission of an affidavit stating that the student or their parents have filed a Maryland income tax return for the previous two years and intend to file one for the current year.

3. Proof of registration with the Selective Service System (if applicable).

4. Provision of official transcripts proving that the student has completed at least 60 credit hours or an associate’s degree from a community college in Maryland.

5. Submission of documentation showing that the student has enrolled in or plans to enroll in a public institution of higher education within four years of graduating from high school or completing a GED program.

6. Demonstration of financial need by providing documentation such as bank statements, pay stubs, or other financial records.

7. Verification of lawful presence in the United States through an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) or other acceptable documentation.

It is important to note that these requirements may vary depending on the specific institution and program, and it is recommended to contact the university’s admissions office for further information regarding eligibility for in-state tuition as an undocumented student.

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

Maryland has a temporary resident exemption policy for undocumented students, which allows them to receive in-state tuition if they meet certain criteria. To be eligible for the exemption, a student must have attended a Maryland high school for at least three years, graduated or received a GED from a Maryland high school, and provide proof that they or their parent/guardian have filed state income taxes for at least three years. The student must also show that they are in good academic standing and have registered with the Selective Service System (if applicable). Additionally, the student must demonstrate intent to become a permanent resident of the United States and submit an affidavit stating that they will file an application to legalize their immigration status as soon as they are eligible to do so. Each case is evaluated individually by the institution’s designated official.

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

Yes, undocumented students in Maryland can apply for financial aid and scholarships to help cover their in-state tuition costs. The state of Maryland offers a program called the Maryland Dream Act, which allows eligible undocumented students to access state financial aid programs and pay in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities. Additionally, there are private scholarships available specifically for undocumented students and other forms of financial aid that do not require proof of citizenship or legal residency status. It is recommended that undocumented students research and apply for these opportunities through their school’s financial aid office or organizations that support undocumented students.

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

Yes, Maryland has a program called “Maryland Dream Act” that allows undocumented students who have graduated from a Maryland high school to qualify for in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities. In order to be eligible, students must meet certain criteria, such as attending a Maryland high school for at least three years, filing income taxes, and registering for selective service (if applicable).

Additionally, some private colleges and universities in Maryland also have policies in place to support undocumented students by offering institutional aid and scholarships. For example, Loyola University Maryland has a designated admissions counselor for undocumented students and offers need-based aid and scholarships specifically for undocumented students.

In 2019, the state of Maryland also passed the Promise Act, which provides financial aid assistance to low-income students regardless of immigration status. This includes programs such as the Guaranteed Access Grant and the Educational Assistance Grant.

Lastly, many public schools in Maryland have resources and support systems in place for immigrant students, such as bilingual services and cultural sensitivity training for staff.

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

There have been recent changes and updates to the laws surrounding in-state tuition for undocumented immigrants in Maryland. In 2012, Maryland passed the Dream Act, which allows eligible undocumented students who meet certain requirements to pay in-state tuition at public colleges and universities. This law was then expanded in 2014 with the passage of the Maryland Dream Act 2.0, which allows more students to qualify for in-state tuition regardless of their immigration status. Additionally, starting July 1, 2020, all students attending community colleges in Maryland will be eligible for in-state tuition rates, regardless of their immigration status.

In April 2019, Maryland lawmakers also passed a bill that would allow undocumented immigrant students to access state financial aid programs such as the Educational Excellence Award and Guaranteed Access Grant. This bill is currently awaiting approval from Governor Larry Hogan.

Overall, these changes reflect a trend towards greater inclusivity and support for undocumented immigrant students pursuing higher education in Maryland.

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

Many states have implemented their own laws and policies allowing undocumented students to access in-state tuition, however they vary in terms of eligibility requirements and benefits. Some states require that students attend high school in the state for a certain number of years or graduate from a state high school, while others do not have any such requirements.

Some states also offer additional benefits such as state financial aid or scholarships to undocumented students, while others only grant them access to in-state tuition rates.

In comparison to Maryland, several other states also have laws or policies allowing undocumented students to pay in-state tuition. These include California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, Kansas, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Texas and Washington.

Some notable differences between these states and Maryland include:

– California: Undocumented students can access in-state tuition at all public colleges and universities and are also eligible for state financial aid under Assembly Bill 540 (AB 540).
– Colorado: Students must attend high school for at least three years before graduation to be eligible for in-state tuition.
– Illinois: All community colleges and public universities must allow undocumented students to pay in-state tuition if they meet certain criteria.
– New York: Undocumented students are eligible for annual awards of up to $5,000 under the DREAM Act.
– Texas: Eligible for state financial aid under Senate Bill 1528 (SB 1528), which grants in-state tuition to undocumented students who meet specific residency requirements.

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

There are currently no ongoing debates or discussions about changing the policies on in-state tuition for undocumented students in Maryland. The current policy, commonly known as the Maryland Dream Act, was passed in 2012 and has not faced any major challenges or changes since then. Some groups may continue to advocate for stricter or looser policies related to in-state tuition for undocumented students, but there are no major proposals or discussions currently underway.

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

The impact of offering in-state tuition to undocumented immigrants in Maryland has been significant. It has resulted in increased enrollment rates among this population, making higher education more accessible and affordable for them.

Before the enactment of the Maryland Dream Act (which allows undocumented immigrants to pay in-state tuition at public colleges and universities), many undocumented students faced significant financial barriers to pursuing higher education due to their immigration status. They were often required to pay out-of-state or international tuition rates, which are much higher than in-state tuition rates.

As a result, many undocumented students could not afford to attend college or had to postpone their education until they could establish legal residency status. This significantly decreased enrollment rates among this population.

However, since the implementation of the Maryland Dream Act, there has been a noticeable increase in enrollment rates among undocumented immigrants at public institutions in the state. In fact, within the first year after it was enacted (2012), over 380 students enrolled at community colleges and over 200 enrolled at four-year institutions under the law. These numbers have continued to increase each year.

The availability of in-state tuition has also allowed undocumented immigrants to access more financial aid opportunities, making higher education even more affordable for them. This includes state-based financial aid programs that were previously off-limits to undocumented students due to their immigration status.

Moreover, offering in-state tuition has incentivized undocumented students to finish high school and pursue higher education, as they now see it as a viable option for their future. This change in mindset has contributed to an overall increase in enrollment rates among this population.

Overall, offering in-state tuition has had a positive impact on higher education enrollment among undocumented immigrants in Maryland by overcoming financial barriers and providing access to previously inaccessible educational opportunities.

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

1. Lack of legal immigration status: The main challenge for undocumented students is their lack of legal immigration status. Most states, including Maryland, require students to be either permanent residents or citizens in order to qualify for in-state tuition.

2. Lengthy residency requirement: Maryland requires applicants to prove at least 12 months of physical presence and financial independence in the state before being eligible for in-state tuition. This can be a significant barrier for undocumented students who may have moved frequently and may not have official documents such as lease agreements or utility bills to prove their residency.

3. Limited financial resources: Many undocumented students come from low-income families and may struggle to meet the financial requirements for in-state tuition, such as paying taxes or providing proof of financial independence.

4. Inconsistent policies: While Maryland offers in-state tuition benefits to undocumented students, some individual colleges and universities within the state may have different policies that make it difficult for these students to receive the benefit.

5. Lack of awareness: Undocumented students and their families may not be aware of the requirements and procedures for obtaining in-state tuition, leading them to miss application deadlines or make errors on their applications.

6. Fear of immigration enforcement: Due to their undocumented status, many students may fear applying for in-state tuition out of concern that they will draw attention to themselves or their families, potentially putting them at risk of deportation.

7. Limited availability of resources: Undocumented students often face additional challenges such as limited access to financial aid resources and academic support services due to their immigration status, which can impact their ability to meet eligibility requirements for in-state tuition.

8. Legal barriers: Some states, including Maryland, have faced legal challenges related to offering in-state tuition benefits to undocumented students. This uncertainty can discourage schools from awarding these benefits and make it more difficult for eligible students to receive them.

9. Language barriers: Many undocumented students and their families speak languages other than English, which can make it difficult for them to understand and navigate the complex application processes for in-state tuition.

10. Difficulty obtaining necessary documentation: As undocumented students may not have traditional forms of identification or official documents, obtaining the necessary paperwork to prove their eligibility for in-state tuition can be a significant barrier.

11. Limited political support: Despite Maryland’s policy to offer in-state tuition benefits to undocumented students, there may be opposition from politicians and community members who view this as giving preferential treatment to non-citizens over citizens. This lack of political support can lead to policies being changed or repealed, making it more difficult for undocumented students 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 Maryland?

No, public and private universities and colleges may have different guidelines for offering in-state tuition to undocumented students in Maryland. However, both types of institutions must comply with the state law that grants in-state tuition eligibility to certain undocumented students who meet specific criteria. Private institutions may also offer their own institutional policies for in-state tuition eligibility to undocumented students.

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 Maryland?

The U.S. Supreme Court ruling on Plyler v. Doe, which declared that states cannot deny children access to public education based on their immigration status, has had a significant impact on the implementation of state-level policies regarding educational opportunities for undocumented youth in Maryland.

In 2012, Maryland passed the Dream Act, which allows undocumented students who meet certain criteria to pay in-state tuition at public colleges and universities. This legislation was partly influenced by the Plyler v. Doe ruling, as it recognized the importance of providing educational opportunities regardless of immigration status.

The ruling has also prompted other policies and initiatives aimed at supporting undocumented students in Maryland. In 2015, the State Board of Education issued guidelines that prohibit discrimination against students based on immigration status and ensure equal access to educational programs and services.

Additionally, some school districts in Maryland have implemented policies to protect the privacy of undocumented students and their families. For example, Montgomery County Public Schools adopted a policy that prohibits school staff from collecting information about students’ immigration status or sharing such information with federal authorities.

Overall, the Plyler v. Doe ruling has helped promote educational equity for undocumented youth in Maryland by challenging exclusionary policies and promoting inclusive practices at both the state and local levels.

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

Yes, there is a limit on the number of slots available for undocumented students who qualify for in-state tuition at public institutions in Maryland. Under the Maryland Dream Act, the maximum number of slots has been set at 470 per year for undergraduate and graduate students. This number will be adjusted annually based on enrollment and budget considerations.

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

Yes, there has been some backlash and opposition towards granting instate-tuition benefits to undocumented students in Maryland. Some citizens and lawmakers argue that providing reduced tuition rates to undocumented students unfairly rewards people who have broken federal immigration laws and takes resources away from lawful residents. Others believe that education is a human right and that denying instate-tuition benefits to undocumented students goes against the values of equal opportunity and fairness. There have been a few legislative attempts to repeal or amend the law, but they have not been successful.

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 Maryland?

The economic impact of providing in-state tuition to undocumented students is difficult to quantify, as it would depend on factors such as the number of individuals who benefit from this policy and the amount of tuition they are eligible for. However, some studies have shown that allowing undocumented students access to higher education can have a positive economic impact in the long term.

According to a study by the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), providing in-state tuition to undocumented students increases their earning potential and tax contributions, resulting in a net gain for state economies. The study estimates that over the course of 40 years, each individual who receives in-state tuition could contribute an additional $419,000 to their state economy through increased earnings and tax revenue.

Additionally, allowing undocumented students access to higher education can also lead to increased entrepreneurship and job creation. According to a study by New American Economy, DACA recipients (undocumented individuals who were brought to the US as children) have high rates of entrepreneurship and are creating jobs at a faster rate than their US-born counterparts.

Furthermore, providing access to higher education for undocumented students can help fill skilled labor shortages in certain industries and increase overall economic productivity. A report by College Board estimated that over 100,000 new jobs could be created if all undocumented young people had access to higher education.

Overall, while there may be some short-term costs associated with providing in-state tuition to undocumented students, the long-term economic benefits could far outweigh them. These individuals have the potential to become significant contributors to the state’s economy through their increased earning potential, job creation, and tax contributions.

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

Yes, there have been several efforts to increase outreach and education about instate-tuition policies for undocumented students in Maryland. For example, the University of Maryland has created a dedicated website specifically for undocumented students, which provides information on eligibility and application processes for in-state tuition. The website also offers resources for financial aid and scholarships available to undocumented students.

In addition, various advocacy groups and nonprofit organizations such as CASA de Maryland and the Maryland Dream Act Coalition have conducted workshops, informational sessions, and community events to educate undocumented students and their families about in-state tuition policies.

Some public schools also offer counseling services specifically for undocumented students to help them navigate the educational system and understand their options for higher education.

Furthermore, state legislation such as the Maryland Dream Act has provisions that require schools and institutions of higher education to provide information about eligibility requirements for in-state tuition to all high school seniors. This helps to ensure that all eligible undocumented students are aware of their opportunities for affordable higher education in Maryland.

Overall, there have been concerted efforts by various entities to increase outreach and education about instate-tuition policies for undocumented students in Maryland.

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

There are no specific fields of study or majors that are excluded from receiving instate-tuition benefits for undocumented students in Maryland. All eligible undocumented students can receive in-state tuition, regardless of their field of study.

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

Yes, Maryland public schools do offer resources and support for undocumented students who may qualify for instate-tuition at the college level. These resources may include:

1. In-state tuition eligibility support: Many public schools have staff members or counselors who can help eligible undocumented students navigate the process of applying for in-state tuition at the college level.

2. Financial aid and scholarships: Some schools have specific programs or financial aid options available to help undocumented students cover tuition costs. They may also provide information on external scholarships and grants that are open to undocumented students.

3. Advising and guidance: Schools may provide advising services to help undocumented students make informed decisions about their future academic plans, including potential pathways to in-state tuition.

4. Education and outreach programs: Some public schools offer education and outreach programs specifically geared towards supporting undocumented students, helping them understand their rights and providing information on available resources.

5. Student organizations and clubs: Many public schools have student-led organizations and clubs that advocate for the rights of undocumented students, provide a supportive community, and organize events and workshops related to higher education opportunities.

Overall, while resources may vary from school to school, Maryland public K-12 schools are committed to supporting all of their students, including those who are undocumented, in pursuing their academic goals.

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 Maryland?

There are several recommendations that advocacy groups and experts have provided to the state government on improving access to higher education for undocumented immigrant students in Maryland. These include:

1. Providing in-state tuition rates for undocumented students: Advocacy groups such as CASA de Maryland and the National Immigrant Law Center have consistently recommended that Maryland offer in-state tuition rates to undocumented students who have lived in the state for a certain period of time.

2. Creating a state-level DREAM Act: Similar to other states, Maryland could enact a state-level DREAM (Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors) Act which would allow undocumented students to apply for financial aid and scholarships at public colleges and universities.

3. Expanding eligibility for state financial aid: The Maryland Dream Act currently provides state financial aid to eligible undocumented students but this program can be expanded further to cover more students.

4. Increasing funding for scholarship programs: Experts have recommended increasing funding for scholarship programs that target undocumented immigrant students, such as the Maryland Dream Grant program or private scholarships specifically designated for this population.

5. Providing legal support services: Undocumented immigrant students often face legal challenges when navigating the college admissions process. Providing free or low-cost legal assistance can help these students access information about their legal rights and immigration options.

6. Developing outreach campaigns: Experts suggest launching targeted outreach campaigns to educate undocumented immigrant students and their families about available resources, including financial aid options and the DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) program.

7. Implementing inclusive policies on campus: Colleges and universities can adopt policies that create safe and welcoming environments for undocumented immigrant students, such as providing confidential resources and establishing support networks on campus.

8. Strengthening partnerships with community organizations: The state government can work closely with community-based organizations that serve immigrant populations to ensure that information about higher education opportunities is disseminated effectively.

Overall, experts recommend implementing a comprehensive approach that combines policy changes, outreach efforts, and support services to improve access to higher education for undocumented immigrant students in Maryland.