State Legislation Supporting Immigrant Access to Higher Education in Connecticut

1. What is the current state legislation in Connecticut regarding access to higher education for undocumented immigrants?


The current state legislation in Connecticut regarding access to higher education for undocumented immigrants is outlined in the Connecticut General Statutes, specifically Section 10a-29b.

This section states that undocumented immigrants who have graduated from a Connecticut high school or received their GED in the state are eligible for in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities. This applies to both full-time and part-time enrollment.

Additionally, undocumented immigrants are also eligible for institutional aid and private scholarships at public institutions, as long as they meet the requirements set by the institution.

In 2017, a bill was signed into law in Connecticut that expanded access to financial aid for undocumented students. This law allows undocumented students who meet certain criteria to apply for institutional financial aid at state-supported higher education institutions.

However, it should be noted that federal financial aid, such as Pell Grants and subsidized loans, are not available to undocumented students.

Overall, Connecticut has relatively liberal policies when it comes to providing access to higher education for undocumented immigrants.

2. How does Connecticut support immigrant students in pursuing higher education opportunities?


Connecticut supports immigrant students in pursuing higher education opportunities through various programs and initiatives. These include:

1. Connecticut DREAM Act: This act, passed in 2011, allows undocumented students who meet certain criteria to pay in-state tuition at state colleges and universities.

2. New England Board of Higher Education’s Tuition Break Program: Through this program, eligible out-of-state students, including undocumented students, can attend public colleges and universities in Connecticut at a reduced tuition rate.

3. Access to Financial Aid: Under the Connecticut DREAM Act, qualified undocumented students are also eligible for state financial aid such as scholarships and grants.

4. Multicultural Affairs Office at Colleges and Universities: Many colleges and universities in Connecticut have offices dedicated to supporting multicultural students, including immigrant students. These offices provide resources, support services, and cultural events to help immigrant students succeed academically.

5. Support Programs for Immigrant Students: There are several support programs specifically designed for immigrant students in Connecticut, such as the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP), which provides academic assistance, counseling, and financial aid to low-income first-generation college students.

6. English Language Learner Programs: Schools in Connecticut offer English language learner programs that help non-native speakers improve their English language skills so they can succeed in higher education courses taught primarily in English.

7. Community Organizations: There are many community organizations that offer resources and assistance to immigrant families and children seeking higher education opportunities in Connecticut.

8. Inclusive Admission Policies: Some colleges and universities have implemented inclusive admission policies that do not consider immigration status as a barrier for enrollment.

3. Are there any specific financial aid programs available for undocumented students in Connecticut?


Yes, there are several financial aid programs available for undocumented students in Connecticut. These include:

1. Institutional Aid: Many colleges and universities in Connecticut offer need-based scholarships and grants to undocumented students.

2. The Dream.US Scholarship: This scholarship is available to eligible undocumented students who have been granted DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) status.

3. Private Scholarships: There are several private organizations and foundations in Connecticut that offer scholarships specifically for undocumented students, such as the Connecticut Students For A Dream Scholarship Fund and the Ricardo Pina Scholarship.

4. Legal Assistance Fund: The Connecticut Students For A Dream organization offers a Legal Assistance Fund to help cover legal fees associated with DACA renewals, work permits, and other immigration-related expenses.

5. The CT House Bill 6321 Program: Under this program, undocumented students who meet certain requirements can access in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities in Connecticut.

6. Tuition-Free Community College Program: Undocumented students can also apply for the “Pledge to Advance Civic Engagement” (PACE) program, which allows them to attend community college tuition-free if they meet certain eligibility criteria.

It is important for undocumented students to research and apply for these financial aid opportunities as they become available. They should also reach out to their school’s financial aid office for more information about specific programs and eligibility requirements.

4. What efforts has the state legislature made to ensure equal opportunities for immigrant and non-immigrant students in higher education?


There are several efforts that the state legislature has made to ensure equal opportunities for both immigrant and non-immigrant students in higher education:

1. Access to In-State Tuition: Some states have passed legislation that allows undocumented students, or students without legal immigration status, to pay in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities. This makes higher education more affordable and accessible for these students.

2. Non-Discriminatory Admission Policies: State legislatures have also prohibited public colleges and universities from discriminating against applicants based on their immigration status.

3. Financial Aid for Immigrant Students: In some states, immigrant students without legal status are eligible for state financial aid programs, making it easier for them to afford higher education.

4. English Language Learning Programs: Many states offer English as a Second Language (ESL) courses at public institutions to help non-native English speakers improve their language skills before or during college.

5. Protection of Student Information: State legislatures have also enacted laws that protect the confidentiality of student information, including immigration status, to prevent discrimination or targeting of immigrant students.

6. Recruitment and Retention Programs: Some states have implemented recruitment and retention programs specifically targeted towards immigrant or minority students in order to increase diversity on college campuses and support underrepresented populations.

7. Inclusion Policies: Public institutions are required by law in many states to adopt policies promoting diversity and inclusion on campus, which can help create a welcoming environment for all students regardless of their background.

Overall, state legislatures have taken steps towards ensuring equal opportunities for both immigrant and non-immigrant students in higher education, recognizing the diverse backgrounds and needs of all individuals seeking educational opportunities in their state.

5. How has Connecticut addressed residency requirements for immigrant students seeking admission into state universities and colleges?


In Connecticut, there are no specific residency requirements for immigrant students seeking admission into state universities and colleges. All applicants are treated equally regardless of their citizenship status or state residency.

Moreover, under the federal Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, undocumented students who meet certain criteria may be eligible for in-state tuition at public universities and colleges in Connecticut. They must have continuously resided in the state since at least June 15, 2007 and have graduated from a high school in Connecticut or earned a GED certificate. This policy was implemented through a state law known as the “Connecticut Dream Act.”

In addition, some public universities in Connecticut have established special admissions procedures for immigrant students who may not have traditional academic records due to their immigration status. These institutions consider alternative factors such as personal essays, letters of recommendation, and demonstrated potential for success when reviewing these applications.

6. Is there any state-level legislation that provides in-state tuition rates for undocumented students in Connecticut?


Yes. The Connecticut state legislature passed a law in 2011 known as the “Dream Act” that allows undocumented students who meet certain criteria to qualify for in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities. This law is similar to the federal DREAM Act, which has yet to be passed by Congress.

7. Has Connecticut passed any laws prohibiting discrimination against immigrant students during the college admissions process?

Yes, Connecticut has passed laws that prohibit discrimination against immigrant students during the college admissions process. The state’s Human Rights and Opportunities Commission (CHRO) states that all educational institutions have a legal obligation to provide equal access to all students regardless of their citizenship or immigration status. This includes prohibiting discrimination in admissions based on national origin, race, religion, or immigration status.
Additionally, Connecticut has implemented the “Access to Student Records for Undocumented Students” law which allows undocumented students to apply to colleges without disclosing their immigration status and prohibits schools from discriminating against undocumented students in the admissions process.

8. Does Connecticut have any programs or initiatives aimed at increasing enrollment of immigrant students in higher education institutions?


Yes, Connecticut has several programs and initiatives aimed at increasing enrollment of immigrant students in higher education institutions. Some examples include:

1. Office for Institutional Equity: The Office for Institutional Equity works to ensure that all students, including immigrants, have equal access to educational opportunities and resources.

2. Educational Access Programs (EAPs): EAPs are state-funded programs that provide academic support and preparation services to low-income, first-generation, and underrepresented students, including immigrants. These programs help students prepare for college entrance exams, navigate the college admissions process, and adjust to the academic and social demands of college.

3. Connecticut’s College Affordability Program: This program provides tuition waivers or reduced tuition costs for undocumented immigrant students who meet specific eligibility criteria.

4. Immigrant Youth Opportunity Program (IYOP): This program provides financial assistance to eligible young undocumented immigrants seeking higher education in Connecticut.

5. Dual Enrollment Programs: Several colleges and universities in Connecticut have dual enrollment agreements with local high schools to allow immigrant students to earn college credits while still in high school.

6. Partnerships with Community Organizations: Many colleges and universities in Connecticut partner with community organizations that provide support services to immigrant populations, such as language assistance, cultural integration programs, and advising on higher education resources.

7. Dedicated Support Services: Some colleges and universities in Connecticut have established dedicated support services for immigrant students, such as international student offices or offices of multicultural affairs to assist with admissions, financial aid, cultural transition support, and other resources specific to the needs of immigrant students.

8. In-state Tuition Rates for Undocumented Students: In 2018, a new state law went into effect in Connecticut allowing undocumented students who have lived in the state for at least two years prior to graduating from high school to pay in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities.

9. Are there any barriers, such as English proficiency testing, that hinder access to higher education for immigrant students in Connecticut?


There are a few potential barriers that may hinder access to higher education for immigrant students in Connecticut:

1. Language barriers: Many immigrant students may face challenges in navigating the college application process and understanding academic materials if they do not speak English as their first language. In addition, certain higher education institutions may have requirements for proficiency in English, such as standardized test scores or specific language courses, which could be difficult for non-English speakers to fulfill.

2. Cost of education: Higher education can be expensive, and many immigrant families may struggle to afford the cost of tuition and related expenses. Without financial aid or scholarships, it may be difficult for some immigrant students to attend college.

3. Immigration status: Undocumented immigrant students face unique challenges when it comes to accessing higher education. They are often not eligible for federal financial aid, and some states have policies that restrict undocumented students from attending public colleges and universities at in-state tuition rates.

4. Cultural differences: Immigrant students, particularly those from low-income and minority backgrounds, may feel isolated on college campuses that lack diversity and cultural competency training among faculty and staff. This could impact their academic performance and sense of belonging within the institution.

5. Lack of support services: Immigrant students may also lack access to support services that could help them navigate the college application process and succeed academically once enrolled. This includes counseling services, English language classes, tutoring resources, and mentorship programs specifically tailored to meet the needs of immigrant students.

Overall, while there are no specific English proficiency testing requirements for admission to most colleges and universities in Connecticut, these various barriers may contribute to lower enrollment rates among immigrant students compared to their U.S.-born peers.

10. How does Connecticut support Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients who are pursuing a college degree?


Connecticut is a strong supporter of DACA recipients who are pursuing a college degree and has implemented several policies and programs to support them in their educational pursuits.

1. In-state tuition: In 2011, Connecticut passed a law which allows undocumented students, including DACA recipients, to pay in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities if they meet certain requirements. This makes higher education more affordable for these students.

2. Financial aid: Undocumented students, including DACA recipients, are not eligible for federal financial aid, but Connecticut offers state financial aid programs for these students. Eligible DACA recipients can receive financial assistance through the Institutional Grant Program and the Roberta B. Willis Scholarship Program.

3. Access to scholarships: There are several scholarships available to help DACA recipients cover the costs of their education in Connecticut. Some examples include TheDream.US National Scholarship Program and The Hartford Promise Scholarship.

4. Legal protections: Connecticut passed legislation in 2017 that provides additional legal protections for undocumented students, including DACA recipients, by prohibiting schools from sharing immigration information with federal authorities without a court order or subpoena.

5. State support/mentoring programs: There are numerous statewide initiatives that offer support and mentorship for undocumented students and DACA recipients specifically. For example, CT Students for a Dream is an organization that helps advocate for undocumented youths’ rights to higher education and provides resources and guidance to help them succeed academically.

6. Counseling services: Colleges and universities in Connecticut offer counseling services specifically geared towards supporting undocumented students and their unique challenges, such as helping them navigate financial aid options or connecting them with community resources.

7. Career preparation programs: Many colleges also offer career preparation services tailored to the needs of immigrant populations, such as workshops on how to obtain internships or job opportunities despite not having citizenship status.

8. Proactive admissions outreach: Several colleges reach out directly to undocumented high school students through partnerships with local organizations that work with immigrant populations. This outreach helps ensure that undocumented students are aware of the opportunities available to them and makes the college application process more accessible.

9. Mentorship programs: Some universities in Connecticut have established mentorship programs that pair DACA recipients with successful professionals or recent graduates from similar backgrounds to offer guidance and support as they navigate their academic and professional endeavors.

10. Institutional support: Many schools in Connecticut have also taken steps to create policies that support DACA recipients, such as allowing for flexible course schedules, offering tuition waivers or discounts, or providing legal resources. These efforts help foster a welcoming and inclusive environment for these students on campus.

11. What measures has the state government taken to protect the privacy of immigrant student information on college campuses?


The state government has taken the following measures to protect the privacy of immigrant student information on college campuses:

1. Confidentiality policies: Many states have established strict confidentiality policies that prohibit colleges and universities from sharing student information with outside agencies, including immigration enforcement agencies, without a student’s consent.

2. Elimination of Social Security Numbers (SSNs): Some states have prohibited colleges and universities from using SSNs as unique identifiers for students, as this can make their personal information more vulnerable to identity theft.

3. Limiting access to student records: The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) grants students certain rights regarding their education records, such as the right to control the disclosure of their records. State governments ensure that these rights are upheld on college campuses and limit access to sensitive information only to authorized personnel.

4. Non-discriminatory admissions policies: It is illegal for colleges or universities in the U.S. to discriminate based on national origin or citizenship status in admissions decisions. States enforce this policy and ensure that all students, regardless of their immigration status, have equal access to higher education.

5. Trainings for school staff: Many states require colleges and universities to train their staff on FERPA regulations and guidelines for handling sensitive student information in order to prevent accidental disclosures.

6. Secure data systems: State governments work with colleges and universities to develop secure data systems that utilize encryption technology and other security measures to safeguard student records.

7. Awareness campaigns: Some states run awareness campaigns through various platforms such as social media, websites, campus events, etc., to inform immigrant students about their rights and resources available for them on campus.

8. Cooperation with advocacy groups: State governments work closely with immigrant advocacy groups to stay up-to-date on any changes in federal immigration policies that could affect immigrant students’ privacy rights.

9. Emergency protocols: In case of any unexpected encounters with immigration authorities on campus, some states have developed emergency protocols to ensure students are properly informed of their rights and resources available to them.

10. Publicized policies: To increase transparency, some states require colleges and universities to publicly display their privacy policies regarding student records and data protection.

11. Legal support: States may provide legal support for immigrant students who face privacy violations or discrimination on campus based on their immigration status.

12. Is there any legislation in place to provide support services, such as counseling and mentorship, specifically for immigrant students in Connecticut?


Yes, there is legislation in place to provide support services for immigrant students in Connecticut. The state has implemented laws and programs to ensure that immigrant students have access to necessary support services, such as counseling and mentorship.

One key piece of legislation is the Connecticut Dream Act, which was passed in 2011. This law allows undocumented students who meet certain criteria to pay in-state tuition at public colleges and universities, making higher education more accessible and affordable for them.

Additionally, the state offers English Language Learner (ELL) programs to support immigrant students who are English-language learners. These programs provide language instruction and academic support specifically tailored to the needs of ELL students.

Connecticut also has laws in place that protect the rights of immigrant students and prohibit discrimination based on immigration status. For example, the state’s Safe School Climate Law requires schools to create safe learning environments for all students, regardless of their immigration status.

Furthermore, there are various non-profit organizations and community-based groups in Connecticut that offer additional support services for immigrant students, such as counseling, mentorship programs, and academic resources.

In summary, Connecticut has legislation and existing resources in place to provide support services for immigrant students. However, it is important to continuously advocate for access to these services and work towards creating a welcoming environment for all immigrant students in the state.

13. Does Connecticut have any partnerships with community organizations or non-profits to provide resources and assistance for undocumented students pursuing higher education?

Yes, Connecticut has several partnerships with community organizations and non-profits that provide resources and assistance for undocumented students pursuing higher education. Some examples include:

1. The University of Connecticut (UConn) has a partnership with the Mexican Consulate in Hartford to support undocumented students through academic and financial aid workshops, legal clinics, and mentoring programs.

2. The Connecticut Students for a Dream (C4D) organization works closely with universities and community colleges to provide resources and support for undocumented students, including scholarship opportunities, legal assistance, mentorship programs, and advocacy efforts.

3. The Hispanic Federation’s Connecticut chapter partners with local high schools to provide information, resources, and scholarships for undocumented students seeking higher education.

4. Building One Community in Stamford offers college preparation workshops, academic counseling, financial aid guidance, and mentoring programs specifically for undocumented students.

5. The Latino & Puerto Rican Affairs Commission (LPRAC) in Connecticut works with community-based organizations to provide resources and support for undocumented students across the state.

Additionally, many universities in Connecticut have their own partnerships with local organizations or have dedicated centers or offices for supporting undocumented students on campus. It is recommended that interested individuals reach out to their desired institution directly to learn more about available resources and partnerships for undocumented students.

14. Has there been any recent proposed legislation in Connecticut aiming to improve access to higher education for immigrants?


Yes, there has been recent proposed legislation in Connecticut aimed at improving access to higher education for immigrants. In 2018, the state passed a law that allows undocumented students to apply for institutional aid at public colleges and universities. This means that these students can now be considered for financial aid from the schools themselves, rather than relying on state or federal programs which they are not eligible for.

In addition, several bills have been introduced in the Connecticut General Assembly aimed at improving access to higher education for immigrants. These include:

1. HB 5080: This bill would allow any student who has graduated from a Connecticut high school, regardless of immigration status, to be eligible for in-state tuition at public colleges and universities.

2. SB 17: This bill would establish a statewide Office of Higher Education Opportunities for Immigrant Students, which would provide resources and support for immigrant students seeking higher education.

3. SB 90: This bill would create a scholarship fund specifically for DACA recipients and other undocumented students in Connecticut.

Overall, the state of Connecticut is taking steps towards providing more opportunities for immigrants to pursue higher education.

15. Are there any restrictions on undocumented individuals attending public universities or colleges in Connecticut?


No, undocumented individuals may attend public universities and colleges in Connecticut. However, they are not eligible for federal financial aid and may be required to pay international student tuition rates.

16. How does Connecticut’s policy on tuition equity compare to neighboring states with similar demographics?


Connecticut’s policy on tuition equity is similar to its neighboring states with similar demographics. Many of these states have implemented laws or policies that aim to provide in-state tuition rates for undocumented students who meet certain criteria.

– New York: In 2011, New York passed the Dream Act, which allows undocumented students who meet certain requirements to pay in-state tuition at public colleges and universities. However, unlike Connecticut’s policy which grants access to all undocumented students regardless of how long they have lived in the state, New York’s Dream Act only applies to students who have attended high school in the state for at least two years and graduated from a New York high school.

– Massachusetts: In 2006, Massachusetts enacted a policy known as the Massachusetts Tuition Equity Act, which allows undocumented students who meet certain criteria to pay in-state tuition at public colleges and universities. Similar to Connecticut’s policy, this applies to all undocumented students regardless of how long they have lived in the state.

– Rhode Island: In 2011, Rhode Island passed a law that allows qualified undocumented students to pay in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities. Like Connecticut’s policy, this applies to all eligible students regardless of their length of residence in the state.

Overall, while there may be some differences in specific eligibility criteria or application processes, neighboring states like New York, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island have similar policies that aim to provide affordable higher education opportunities for undocumented students.

17. What steps has the state government taken to address concerns about increased competition for limited spots in higher education institutions due to the enrollment of immigrant students?


The state government has taken several steps to address concerns about increased competition for limited spots in higher education institutions due to the enrollment of immigrant students:

1. Increase in available spots: One of the main steps taken by the state government is to increase the number of available spots in higher education institutions. This ensures that there are enough places for both immigrant and domestic students, reducing competition for limited spots.

2. Expansion of existing institutions: The state government has also invested in expanding existing higher education institutions to accommodate more students. This includes building new campuses, creating additional classrooms and lecture halls, and upgrading facilities.

3. Creation of new institutions: In some cases, the state government has created entirely new higher education institutions to cater specifically to immigrant students. These institutions offer specialized programs and services that can better support the needs of immigrant students.

4. Scholarships and financial aid: To help ease the financial burden on both domestic and immigrant students, the state government has increased scholarship opportunities and financial aid options.

5. Diversity quotas: Some states have implemented diversity quotas in higher education institutions, ensuring a certain percentage of spots are reserved for immigrant or minority students.

6. Outreach programs: The state government has also launched outreach programs aimed at encouraging more immigrants to pursue higher education and providing them with information on available resources and support.

7. Professional development for teachers and staff: To better support immigrant students, the state government has provided professional development opportunities for teachers and staff, equipping them with cultural competency skills and strategies for working with diverse student populations.

8. Improved English language support: Many states have implemented specialized English language support programs for immigrant students who may not be proficient in English yet but are looking to pursue higher education.

9. Collaboration with community organizations: The state government works closely with community organizations that serve immigrants to identify barriers to education access and develop solutions tailored to their specific needs.

10. Transparency in admissions processes: To address concerns about unfair competition, the state government has worked to increase transparency in the admissions process, ensuring that all students, including immigrants, are evaluated fairly based on their qualifications and merit.

18. Is there a state-level support system in place to help immigrant students navigate the admissions process and access financial aid resources?


The availability of state-level support for immigrant students navigating the college admissions process and accessing financial aid resources may vary from state to state. Some states have established programs specifically designed to assist immigrant students, while others may offer more general resources that can be utilized by all students, including immigrants.

For example, California has several programs in place to support undocumented and immigrant students, including the Dream Act Application for state financial aid and the California Dream Loan Program. The state also has a variety of community-based organizations that provide guidance and assistance with the college application process for immigrant students.

In New York, there is a statewide initiative called “The DREAM Act” which provides financial aid to undocumented students who meet specific eligibility requirements. The state also has a program called “College Access Challenge Grant” which aims to increase access to higher education for underserved populations, including immigrant students.

Other states like Texas have initiatives such as the College Access Loan Program which provides low-interest loans to qualifying residents regardless of immigration status. In addition, many colleges and universities in Texas have established partnerships with community organizations in order to provide support and resources for immigrant students.

Overall, while not all states may have a specific support system in place for immigrant students, there are often various resources and programs available at both the state and local level that can assist them with navigating the admissions process and obtaining financial aid. It is recommended that immigrant students reach out to their school counselors or search online for resources available specifically in their state.

19. Has there been any notable success or impact on immigrant access to higher education since Connecticut passed legislation supporting this issue?


Yes, there have been several notable successes and impacts on immigrant access to higher education in Connecticut since the state passed legislation supporting this issue.

One major success is the passage of the Connecticut Affordability Act in 2011, which allows undocumented students with DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) status to pay in-state tuition at public universities and colleges. This has made college more accessible and affordable for many undocumented students who were previously unable to afford out-of-state tuition rates.

In addition, the 2011 legislation also created an institutional aid program that allows undocumented students with DACA status to receive financial aid from individual schools. This has helped many students cover the cost of attendance at institutions that do not offer DACA students in-state tuition rates.

Another significant impact of the legislation has been increased enrollment of immigrant students in higher education. According to data from the U.S. Department of Education, the number of undergraduate undocumented immigrants enrolled in public colleges and universities in Connecticut increased by over 250% between 2009 and 2016.

Furthermore, many colleges and universities in Connecticut have implemented support services for immigrant students, such as resource centers and peer mentoring programs. These initiatives help create a more inclusive campus environment and provide necessary support for immigrant students to succeed academically.

Overall, the legislation supporting immigrant access to higher education has had a positive impact on increasing educational opportunities for immigrant students in Connecticut. It has also helped raise awareness about the challenges faced by undocumented students and has prompted other states to take similar actions.

20. What are the ongoing efforts at the state level to continue improving immigrant access to higher education in Connecticut?


1. In-state tuition for undocumented students: In 2011, Connecticut became the first state to pass a law granting in-state tuition rates to undocumented students who meet certain criteria, including attending a Connecticut high school for at least two years and graduating from a Connecticut high school.

2. Financial aid assistance: Undocumented students who qualify for in-state tuition are also now eligible for state financial aid programs such as the Roberta Willis Scholarship and the Capitol Scholarship award.

3. DREAM Act: In 2019, the state passed a “DREAM Act” that allows students without legal status to apply for institutional financial aid at any public or private college or university in the state if they meet certain criteria.

4. Multilingual resources: To ensure immigrant students and families have access to important information, the state has implemented multilingual resources on its Higher Education website and makes translations of important documents available upon request.

5. Partnerships with community organizations: The Connecticut Office of Higher Education works with community-based organizations like Unidad Latina en Acción (ULA) and CT Students for a Dream to provide support and resources to immigrant students navigating higher education opportunities.

6. Outreach initiatives: State agencies conduct outreach efforts through events like the College Goal Sunday program, which provides free help completing financial aid applications, and hosting “Know Your Rights” forums for immigrant students and families.

7. State-level legislation supporting higher education for immigrants: There are ongoing efforts at the state level to introduce legislation that would further support immigrant access to higher education, such as expanding eligibility requirements for in-state tuition rates or increasing funding for financial aid programs.

8. Support services on college campuses: Many colleges in the state offer specialized support services specifically designed for immigrant students, including immigration legal clinics, culturally responsive programming, and academic advising tailored to their needs.

9. Collaborative partnerships between colleges and K-12 schools: Several colleges in Connecticut have partnered with local K-12 schools to provide resources and support for immigrant students, such as mentorship programs, college visits, and help with the college application process.

10. Embracing diversity: State universities and colleges have made efforts to create inclusive environments that embrace diversity, including offering cultural competency training for faculty and staff and promoting student-led organizations focused on immigrant rights and support.