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

As of 2021, the current state legislation in Maryland regarding access to higher education for undocumented immigrants is the Maryland Dream Act. This act, also known as the “Dream Act of 2012,” was signed into law by Governor Martin O’Malley in May 2011 and went into effect on July 1, 2016.

Under this law, undocumented students who meet certain requirements are able to pay in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities in Maryland. In order to be eligible for in-state tuition, students must have attended a Maryland high school for at least three years, graduated or earned a GED in the state, and filed income taxes for at least three years. They must also provide documentation that they or their parent/guardian has paid income taxes to the state during those three years.

The Maryland Dream Act also establishes a scholarship program for eligible undocumented students who demonstrate financial need. This scholarship can be used to cover any remaining costs after receiving in-state tuition rates.

In addition, the Board of Regents of the University System of Maryland has established policies to make financial aid available to qualifying undocumented students under certain circumstances, such as through private scholarships and institutional aid.

There are ongoing efforts by advocates and legislators to expand access to higher education for undocumented immigrants in Maryland, including proposals for bills that would allow these students access to state-funded financial aid programs. However, these proposals have not yet been passed into law.

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

There are several ways that Maryland supports immigrant students in pursuing higher education opportunities:

1. In-state tuition for undocumented students: In 2012, Maryland passed a state law allowing undocumented students to pay in-state tuition at public universities and colleges if they meet specific criteria, such as attending a Maryland high school for at least three years and providing evidence of filing state income tax returns.

2. Access to financial aid: Undocumented students who qualify for in-state tuition are also eligible for state financial aid programs, including the Maryland Higher Education Commission’s (MHEC) need-based grants and scholarships. Additionally, DACA recipients can receive federal financial aid through the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program.

3. Support from the MHEC: The MHEC has established the Maryland Dream Act Student Assistance Workgroup to provide resources and support for undocumented students and their families, including assistance with college preparation, admissions, and financial aid.

4. Specialized college programs: Several universities in Maryland offer specialized support programs specifically for immigrant or refugee students, such as the Center for Refugee Youth and Families at Morgan State University and the International Rescue Committee’s New Roots Program at the University of Baltimore.

5. Partnerships with community organizations: Colleges and universities in Maryland often partner with local community organizations to provide additional support and resources for immigrant students. For example, Montgomery College partners with Identity Inc., a nonprofit serving Latino youth and their families, to offer programs such as college readiness workshops and scholarship opportunities.

6. Campus support services: Many colleges in Maryland have dedicated campus groups or offices that serve immigrant or international students, providing resources such as academic counseling, English language support, cultural events, and networking opportunities.

7. State policies on equal access to education: In addition to the in-state tuition law, Maryland has enacted other policies to ensure equal access to education regardless of immigration status. For example, public schools are prohibited from discriminating based on immigration status, and all students have the right to attend school regardless of their documentation.

Overall, Maryland’s policies and initiatives demonstrate a commitment to providing opportunities for immigrant students to pursue higher education. However, there is still room for improvement in terms of ensuring access to resources and support for all immigrant students, regardless of their legal status.

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

There are several financial aid programs available for undocumented students in Maryland, including:

1. Dream Act of Maryland: This program allows eligible undocumented students to pay in-state tuition at public colleges and universities in Maryland.

2. In-State Tuition Rates at Public Institutions: Undocumented students who do not qualify for the Dream Act may still be eligible for in-state tuition rates at public institutions if they meet certain criteria, such as attending a Maryland high school for at least three years and graduating from a Maryland high school or receiving a GED in Maryland.

3. Private Scholarships: There are many private scholarships available specifically for undocumented students, including the DREAM US Scholarship and TheDream.US National Scholarship.

4. Baltimore Community Foundation-Elysian Energy Scholarship Fund: This fund provides renewable scholarships to Baltimore City public high school seniors who are undocumented.

5. The Latino Student Fund College Access Program (CSAP): This program provides academic support, standardized test preparation, college application guidance, and financial aid assistance to low-income, first-generation college-bound Latinos in the DC metropolitan area, including parts of Maryland.

6. Undocumented Student Support Network (USSN) Grant: This grant provides funding to support student-led initiatives that increase the visibility and resources available to undocumented students on college campuses across the country.

It is important for undocumented students to research and apply for all available financial aid options to help cover their educational expenses.

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 immigrant and non-immigrant students in higher education.

1. In-state tuition: Many states have passed laws to provide in-state tuition rates for undocumented students who graduate from high schools in their state, regardless of their immigration status. This policy allows these students to access affordable higher education, which would have otherwise been out of reach due to their immigration status.

2. Financial aid: Some states have also enacted legislation allowing undocumented students to qualify for state financial aid, making college more accessible and affordable. This includes both merit-based scholarships and need-based grants.

3. Non-discrimination policies: State legislatures have implemented laws prohibiting discrimination based on immigration status, ensuring that both immigrant and non-immigrant students are treated equally by universities and colleges.

4. Bilingual programs: Some states have initiated bilingual programs in public universities and community colleges, providing support for non-native English speakers and helping them succeed academically.

5. Inclusive admissions policies: Many state universities now have inclusive admissions policies that consider a student’s unique backgrounds and experiences, including undocumented immigrants, when evaluating applications.

6. Resources for undocumented students: Several states have also established resources centers at universities specifically designed to support undocumented students with academic advising, counseling, legal services, and other resources to help them pursue higher education successfully.

7. Accessible information: State legislatures frequently require public universities and colleges to make information about admission criteria, financial aid policies, residency requirements, etc., easily available to all students regardless of their immigration status.

Overall these efforts aim towards creating a more inclusive environment where all students — irrespective of their immigration status — can access education without facing any barriers or discrimination.

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

Maryland has established specific policies and laws to address residency requirements for immigrant students seeking admission into state universities and colleges. These include:

1. In-State Tuition for Undocumented Students: The Maryland Dream Act, passed in 2012, allows undocumented students who have attended a Maryland high school for at least three years to pay in-state tuition at public colleges and universities, as long as they meet other eligibility criteria.

2. In-State Tuition for Asylees: Under a policy established by the University System of Maryland (USM), individuals granted asylum by the U.S. government may also qualify for in-state tuition at Maryland public institutions.

3. Residency Requirements: To receive in-state tuition at a public university or community college in Maryland, an individual must be considered a resident of the state. This requires providing proof of physical presence and intent to remain in Maryland, such as a lease agreement or voter registration card.

4. Special Consideration for Refugee and Asylee Students: The USM also has policies that consider hardship cases of refugees and asylees who may not meet traditional residency requirements but have significant ties to Maryland.

5. Non-Discrimination Policies: The state of Maryland prohibits discrimination on the basis of national origin, which includes immigration status, in all education activities and programs receiving federal funding.

Overall, these policies and laws aim to provide more equitable access to higher education for immigrant students residing in Maryland.

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

Yes, the state of Maryland offers in-state tuition rates for undocumented students through its Dream Act, which was enacted in 2011. According to this act, undocumented students who meet certain criteria, such as attending a Maryland high school for at least three years and filing for taxes, are eligible for in-state tuition rates at all public colleges and universities in the state. They must also provide proof that they or their parents have paid Maryland state income taxes for at least two years prior to enrolling.

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

Yes, Maryland has passed several laws that specifically prohibit discrimination against immigrant students during the college admissions process.

1. The In-State Tuition for Undocumented Students Law, passed in 2011, allows undocumented students who graduated from a Maryland high school and meet certain criteria to pay in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities.
2. In 2019, the Dignity Not Detention Act was passed, prohibiting immigration enforcement activities on college campuses and requiring schools to adopt policies protecting immigrant students.
3. The Discriminatory Profiling Prevention Act was also passed in 2019, prohibiting state agencies, including colleges and universities, from using race or national origin as a factor in admissions decisions.
4. Additionally, the Dream Act of 2011 grants eligibility for state financial aid to undocumented students who qualify for in-state tuition under the In-State Tuition for Undocumented Students Law.

These laws aim to ensure fair treatment of immigrant students in the college admissions process and provide equal access to education opportunities.

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

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

1. The Maryland DREAM Act: This legislation allows certain undocumented students who have graduated from a Maryland high school and meet other eligibility criteria to pay in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities.

2. The Educational Excellence Award: This program provides need-based financial aid to eligible immigrant students who are not eligible for federal financial aid due to their immigration status.

3. The MdEEC Scholarship Program: This scholarship program is available to immigrant students who hold DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) status and covers the cost of tuition, fees, and books at participating community colleges.

4. Community College Refugee Scholarship Program: This program provides scholarships to refugees living in Maryland enrolled in community college to help cover the costs of tuition, fees, and books.

5. Support for Undocumented Students: Many universities in Maryland have established resources and support services specifically for undocumented or DACA-eligible students, including advising, scholarships, and legal assistance.

6. Partnerships with Community-Based Organizations: Many Maryland higher education institutions have partnerships with community-based organizations that work with immigrant communities to provide outreach and support services for potential students.

7. Language Access Services: Some colleges and universities in Maryland offer language access services such as translation services or multilingual staff to support prospective immigrant students during the admissions process.

8. Outreach Initiatives: Colleges and universities in Maryland also conduct targeted outreach efforts to recruit immigrant students, including participating in college fairs focused on serving immigrants and hosting information sessions specifically for this population.

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

Yes, there are several barriers that hinder access to higher education for immigrant students in Maryland. One of the main barriers is the English proficiency testing requirement. Many universities and colleges in Maryland require international students to take an English language test, such as the TOEFL or IELTS, as part of the admissions process. These tests can be expensive and difficult for non-native English speakers, making it a major barrier for immigrant students.

Another barrier is the lack of support and resources for immigrant students in navigating the college application and financial aid process. Many immigrant students come from low-income families and may not have access to proper guidance or information on how to apply for scholarships or financial aid.

Additionally, undocumented immigrant students face additional challenges in accessing higher education in Maryland due to their immigration status. In-state tuition rates may not apply to them, making it more difficult for them to afford college. They may also face discrimination and fear of deportation, which can prevent them from pursuing higher education opportunities.

Finally, issues such as cultural differences and homesickness can also act as barriers for immigrant students in adapting to college life in Maryland. Many international students may feel isolated or struggle with adjusting to a new culture, which can impact their overall academic success.

Overall, these barriers create significant challenges for immigrant students seeking higher education opportunities in Maryland. Addressing these barriers and providing support and resources can help improve access to higher education for these students.

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

Maryland offers several resources and support for DACA recipients who are pursuing a college degree. These include:

1. In-state tuition eligibility: As of 2012, Maryland allows DACA recipients who have lived in the state for at least three years to qualify for in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities.

2. Financial aid opportunities: DACA recipients may be eligible for certain forms of financial aid, such as private scholarships, institutional grants, and private loans. The Maryland Dream Act also allows certain undocumented students, including DACA recipients, to apply for state financial aid programs.

3. Campus Support: Many colleges and universities in Maryland have specific programs and resources dedicated to supporting undocumented students, including DACA recipients. This can include academic advising, support groups, mentoring programs, and legal assistance.

4. Legal Services: Organizations such as CASA de Maryland provide free or low-cost legal services to help DACA recipients with their immigration status and applications.

5. Work-study and employment opportunities: Colleges and universities may offer work-study programs or other on-campus employment opportunities that allow DACA recipients to earn money while pursuing their studies.

6. Community support networks: There are various organizations and communities in Maryland that offer support and resources for undocumented students, including DACA recipients. These include the Maryland Dream Act Network, Undocumented Student Alliance (at University of Maryland), Coalition for Access Now (at Johns Hopkins University), among others.

7. Legislative support: The state government of Maryland has been supportive of legislation that protects the rights of DACA recipients and provides access to education opportunities for them.

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

The state government has implemented a number of measures to protect the privacy of immigrant student information on college campuses, including:

1. Non-Disclosure Policies: Many state universities have established non-disclosure policies that prohibit them from sharing student information with any third party without their explicit consent.

2. Confidentiality Agreements: The state government has encouraged colleges and universities to require staff, faculty, and any other employees who have access to student records to sign confidentiality agreements. These agreements outline the importance of protecting student information and the consequences for any breaches.

3. Data Encryption: The state government has encouraged colleges and universities to use encryption software and other security measures to safeguard sensitive data such as social security numbers, immigration status, and other personal information.

4. Limited Access: Colleges and universities are urged to limit access to student records only to those employees who need it to perform their job duties.

5. Training Programs: The state government has provided training programs for college employees on how to properly handle and safeguard sensitive student information.

6. Clear Guidelines for Sharing Information: The state has also issued clear guidelines for when and how college personnel can share student information with law enforcement or other agencies. These guidelines stress the importance of respecting students’ privacy rights while also complying with legal obligations.

7. In-State Tuition Protections: Some states have also passed laws that prevent colleges from disclosing a student’s immigration status in order to deny them in-state tuition rates.

8. Immigration Legal Services: The state may provide funding or resources for immigration legal services on college campuses, ensuring that students receive accurate information about their rights and options without compromising their privacy.

9. Communication with Students: Colleges are encouraged to communicate clearly with students about their privacy rights, how their information will be used, and what steps they can take if they believe their privacy has been violated.

10. Oversight Committees: Some states have created oversight committees or appointed officials specifically tasked with monitoring and protecting the privacy of immigrant student information on college campuses. These committees work to ensure that colleges are complying with state laws and regulations related to student privacy.

11. Collaboration with Federal Agencies: The state government may also collaborate with federal agencies such as the Department of Homeland Security and Immigration and Customs Enforcement to ensure that college campuses are following federal guidelines for protecting student information.

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

Yes, there is legislation in place to provide support services for immigrant students in Maryland. The General Assembly of Maryland passed the DREAM Act in 2011, which allows certain undocumented immigrants to pay in-state tuition at public colleges and universities. This provides access to higher education for immigrant students, which can lead to better job opportunities and economic stability.

Additionally, the Maryland State Department of Education offers a variety of support services for immigrant and refugee students through its Office of New Americans. This includes counseling and mentorship programs that help students with adjusting to a new culture and navigating the educational system.

Furthermore, many local school districts in Maryland have policies in place to support immigrant students, such as providing English language instruction and cultural competency training for teachers. Non-profit organizations also play an important role in providing support services for immigrant students, including tutoring, academic enrichment programs, and mental health resources.

Overall, Maryland has several measures in place to provide support services for immigrant students and ensure they have equal access to education and opportunities for success.

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

Yes, Maryland has partnerships with community organizations and non-profits to provide resources and assistance for undocumented students pursuing higher education. These include:

1. The Maryland Dream Act Alliance: This is a coalition of various organizations in the state that work towards promoting access to higher education for undocumented students. They provide resources, advocacy support, and information on financial aid opportunities.

2. CASA de Maryland: This organization provides a range of services to immigrant communities in Maryland, including educational resources, legal assistance, and advocacy for immigrant rights.

3. The Immigrant Justice Clinic at the University of Baltimore School of Law: This clinic offers free legal services to immigrants, including undocumented students, seeking help with their immigration status.

4. United We Dream: This is a national organization that works towards advocating and providing resources for undocumented youth, including those in Maryland.

5. Educating Young Minds (EYM) Foundation: EYM provides scholarships and mentorship programs for undocumented students in the state of Maryland.

6. Hispanic Heritage Foundation’s Youth Awards Program: This program recognizes and honors young Latino leaders across the country, including those in Maryland, by providing scholarships and internships.

7. Scholarships for Undocumented Students: There are various scholarships available specifically for undocumented students in Maryland offered by private organizations and foundations such as TheDream.US scholarship and The Goldberg-Meehan Memorial Scholarship Fund.

8. Higher Education Commission Career & College Outreach Program (CCOP): CCOP partners with schools, colleges, community organizations and others to provide college-going information to underserved populations in Maryland, including undocumented students.

9 . The Office for Multicultural Involvement & Community Advocacy (MICA) at the University of Maryland: MICA supports the academic success and personal development of all University of Maryland students through workshops tailored specifically toward helping underrepresented populations succeed academically.

10 . Montgomery College Annual Tuition Equity Walkathon & 5K Race: Every fall, Montgomery College hosts a Walkathon & 5K Race to raise funds for scholarships for undocumented students in the state.

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

Yes, there have been several recent proposed legislation in Maryland aimed at improving access to higher education for immigrants. Some of these include:

1. The Maryland Dream Act: This was passed in 2012 and allows undocumented students who meet certain requirements to pay in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities.

2. The Maryland Tuition Equality Act: This was passed in 2014 and extends eligibility for in-state tuition to all undocumented students graduating from a Maryland high school, regardless of how recently they arrived in the United States.

3. The Chesapeake College Completion Program: This program, launched in 2019, provides financial assistance to eligible immigrant students at Chesapeake College to help them complete their degrees.

4. The Accessing College Education (ACE) Fund: This fund was established in 2019 and provides financial assistance for undocumented students who are not eligible for federal or state student aid.

5. Gunpowder Latinx Student Achievement Program: Established in 2020, this program offers scholarships and financial support to Latinx students attending community colleges in Baltimore County.

Overall, Maryland has been taking steps towards making higher education more accessible for immigrants residing in the state. However, there is still room for improvement and there may be additional legislation proposed in the future to further improve access to higher education for immigrants.

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

No, undocumented individuals are not restricted from attending public universities or colleges in Maryland. They may be subject to residency and/or financial aid requirements, but their legal status does not prevent them from enrolling in these institutions.

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

Maryland’s policy on tuition equity is generally more generous than neighboring states with similar demographics. While some neighboring states such as Virginia and Pennsylvania also offer in-state tuition rates to undocumented students who meet certain criteria, Maryland’s policy goes further by allowing students to qualify for state financial aid. Additionally, Maryland has a shorter time requirement for attendance at a Maryland high school (3 years) compared to Virginia’s 5 years and Pennsylvania’s 4 years. However, some states like New Jersey and California have even more expansive policies that offer in-state tuition rates and state financial aid to all undocumented students regardless of their high school attendance or residence in the state.

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?

1. Increasing the number of higher education institutions: The state government has taken measures to increase the number of colleges and universities in the state to accommodate a larger number of students.

2. Expanding existing institutions: The government has also allocated funds to expand and upgrade existing higher education institutions, creating more space for students.

3. Encouraging private participation: The state government has encouraged private players to establish new colleges and universities, increasing the overall capacity in higher education.

4. Implementing reservation policies: The government has implemented reservation policies to ensure that a certain percentage of seats are reserved for residents of the state. This helps in mitigating concerns about competition from immigrant students.

5. Promoting online learning: In an effort to make education more accessible, the government has promoted online learning modules and courses, which can cater to a larger number of students without impacting physical infrastructure.

6. Providing financial aid: The state government offers various scholarships and financial aid programs to help local students afford higher education.

7. Setting up community colleges: Community colleges have been set up by the government in various areas, which offer vocational courses and skill-based training that supplement traditional higher education, reducing competition for limited spots.

8. Collaborating with neighboring states: The state government works closely with other neighboring states to create joint admissions systems or exchange programs, providing additional options for students seeking admission in higher education institutions.

9. Career counseling programs: To address concerns about limited spots in popular degree programs such as engineering or medicine, the state government conducts career counseling programs that inform students about alternative paths in emerging fields where there is less competition for admission.

10 . Focusing on skill development programs: To reduce dependency on traditional degrees, the state government has collaborated with industries to introduce skill development programs that enhance employability instead of just academic qualification.

11. Encouraging distance education: Distance learning programs are becoming increasingly popular among students as they provide flexibility while pursuing higher education. The state government has encouraged the establishment of more distance learning centers to accommodate a larger number of students.

12. Increasing research opportunities: The state government aims to improve the overall quality of education by expanding research facilities and encouraging international collaborations, attracting students from different parts of the world.

13. Streamlining admission processes: The government has introduced online admission processes and centralized admission systems to ensure fairness in the distribution of seats and minimize chances of fraudulent practices.

14. Promoting entrepreneurship: The state government encourages young entrepreneurs by providing financial aid, mentorship programs, and incubation centers, which can create job opportunities for students instead of just competing for limited spots in higher education.

15. Improving vocational training facilities: To reduce competition for traditional degrees, the government focuses on equipping vocational training institutes with better infrastructure and equipment to provide relevant hands-on skills to students.

16. Regular monitoring: The state government regularly monitors enrollment patterns and conducts surveys to identify gaps in higher education capacity and take necessary action.

17. Promoting inclusive education: Lastly, the government promotes an inclusive culture among all communities within the state, encouraging equal access to higher education for all residents regardless of their background or ethnicity.

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

It depends on the state. Some states, such as California, have specific programs and resources in place to support immigrant students in navigating the admissions process and accessing financial aid resources. Other states may have less comprehensive support systems in place. It is important for students to research the specific resources available in their state and reach out to their school counselors or college access programs for assistance.

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

Yes, there have been notable successes and impacts on immigrant access to higher education in Maryland since the passage of legislation supporting this issue.

In 2011, Maryland passed the DREAM (Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors) Act, which allowed undocumented immigrants who graduated from a Maryland high school and met certain criteria to pay in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities. This law has opened up higher education opportunities for thousands of undocumented students in the state.

According to a 2020 report by Advocates for Children and Youth, over 3,100 undocumented students have benefited from the DREAM Act since it was enacted. These students have had access to affordable higher education opportunities that were previously unavailable to them.

The DREAM Act has also had a positive impact on the economy of Maryland. A 2018 study by the University of Maryland School of Public Policy estimated that each cohort of DREAM Act beneficiaries contributes $66 million annually towards Maryland’s economic growth.

Moreover, in May 2019, Governor Larry Hogan signed into law the “Higher Education – Community College Promise Scholarship Program – Extending Eligibility – Stacking Prohibition” bill, which expanded eligibility for financial aid to include DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) recipients. This allows DACA recipients to apply for state scholarships and grants to help cover their tuition costs at community colleges.

In addition to these legislative changes, many universities in Maryland have also implemented policies and programs to support undocumented students. For example, The University of Maryland offers scholarships specifically for undocumented students through its Partnership Scholars Program. Other universities like Towson University and University of Baltimore provide resources such as legal assistance and mental health support for undocumented students.

These efforts have collectively made a significant impact on immigrant access to higher education in Maryland. They have provided opportunities for thousands of undocumented students to pursue higher education at an affordable cost and contribute to the state’s workforce and economy.

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

Some ongoing efforts at the state level to continue improving immigrant access to higher education in Maryland include:

1. In-state tuition for undocumented students: In 2012, Maryland passed a law allowing undocumented students who have graduated from a Maryland high school and met certain residency requirements to pay in-state tuition at public colleges and universities.

2. Financial aid for undocumented students: In 2019, Maryland passed a bill allowing eligible undocumented students to apply for state financial aid to help cover the cost of attending college.

3. Non-discrimination policies: Maryland has policies in place that prohibit discrimination against students on the basis of immigration status and require equal treatment for all students regardless of their background.

4. Support services for immigrant and international students: Many colleges and universities in Maryland provide support services for immigrant and international students, such as language assistance, cultural programs, and financial resources.

5. Scholarships for immigrants: There are many organizations and foundations in Maryland that offer scholarships specifically targeted towards immigrant students, such as the Esperanza Education Fund and the Immigrant Youth Empowerment Scholarship.

6. Outreach programs: Colleges and universities in Maryland often have outreach programs aimed at encouraging more immigrant students to pursue higher education, providing information about admissions processes, financial aid options, and academic resources available for them.

7. Advocacy and awareness campaigns: Various organizations in Maryland advocate for policies that support immigrant access to higher education and raise awareness about the barriers faced by immigrant students.

8. Cross-cultural diversity initiatives: Many campuses have cross-cultural diversity initiatives that promote understanding and acceptance of different cultures among all students, including immigrants.

9. Partnerships with community-based organizations: Some colleges collaborate with community-based organizations that work directly with immigrant communities to provide support services and build relationships between these communities and local institutions of higher education.

10. Research on best practices: The state also invests in research on best practices for improving immigrant access to higher education, which can inform policy decisions and help institutions better serve immigrant students.