1. What is the current state legislation in Montana regarding access to higher education for undocumented immigrants?
As of 2021, Montana does not have any state legislation that specifically addresses access to higher education for undocumented immigrants. However, the state does have a policy that allows non-citizens, including undocumented immigrants, to attend public colleges and universities on the same tuition rate as in-state residents.2. Are undocumented students eligible for in-state tuition at public colleges and universities in Montana?
Yes, under Montana Board of Regents Policy 940.3, non-citizens who meet certain residency requirements are eligible for in-state tuition rates. This includes undocumented students who have attended a Montana high school for at least three years and received a diploma or equivalency certificate from a Montana high school. Additionally, students must provide documentation of their intent to become a permanent resident or proof of an application for legal status.
3. Do undocumented students have access to state financial aid in Montana?
No, undocumented students are not eligible for state financial aid programs in Montana. However, they may be eligible for institutional aid offered by individual colleges and universities.
4. Are there any scholarships available specifically for undocumented students in Montana?
Yes, there are several scholarships available specifically for undocumented students in Montana through organizations such as the Hispanic Scholarship Fund and the Dreams Through Education Scholarship Fund.
5. How does Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) impact access to higher education for undocumented immigrants in Montana?
DACA recipients are considered lawfully present and therefore eligible for in-state tuition rates and some forms of financial aid under Board of Regents Policy 940.3. However, they may still face additional barriers or restrictions when it comes to accessing certain educational opportunities or resources due to their immigration status.
6. Is there any pending legislation or proposed changes that could impact access to higher education for undocumented immigrants in Montana?
As of now, there is no pending legislation or proposed changes that could impact access to higher education for undocumented immigrants in Montana. However, this could change in the future as immigration policies continue to evolve. It is important for students to stay updated and informed about any potential changes that could affect their access to higher education.
2. How does Montana support immigrant students in pursuing higher education opportunities?
Montana has several programs and initiatives in place to support immigrant students in pursuing higher education opportunities. These include:
1. In-state tuition for qualifying undocumented students: Montana allows qualifying undocumented students who have graduated from a Montana high school or received a GED to pay in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities.
2. The Reach Higher Montana Scholarship Program: This program provides merit-based scholarships for low-income, first-generation college students, including immigrants. The program also offers resources and support to assist recipients in completing their college education.
3. The Opportunity Link AmeriCorps Program: This program offers financial assistance and educational resources to low-income individuals, including immigrants, who are pursuing postsecondary education or training.
4. College readiness programs: Montana has several college readiness programs, such as TRIO and Upward Bound, which provide academic support and resources to help prepare low-income and first-generation students, including immigrants, for college.
5. Financial aid and scholarships: Immigrant students in Montana are eligible for state-funded financial aid programs such as the Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) and the Work Study Program. They can also apply for privately-funded scholarships through organizations like the Hispanic Scholarship Fund or Montana State University’s American Indian Minority Fellowship Program.
6. Support services for immigrant students: Many colleges and universities in Montana have offices of multicultural affairs or diversity centers that offer various resources and services specifically designed to support immigrant students, such as counseling, mentoring, and cultural programming.
7. Partnership with community organizations: Many community organizations in Montana work closely with schools and colleges to provide support for immigrant students, such as tutoring services, mentoring programs, and advocacy assistance.
Overall, these efforts aim to create an inclusive environment that supports immigrant students in accessing higher education opportunities in Montana.
3. Are there any specific financial aid programs available for undocumented students in Montana?
Yes, there are some financial aid programs available for undocumented students in Montana. These include:
1. The Montana State University Dream Scholarship: This scholarship is specifically for undocumented students attending Montana State University and covers tuition, fees, and books.
2. The Treasure State Scholarship: This scholarship is available to Montana high school graduates who have lived in the state for at least five years, regardless of immigration status.
3. The Families First Act Grant: This grant is available to eligible students attending a public or private university in Montana, regardless of immigration status.
4. Private Scholarships: Many private organizations and foundations offer scholarships that do not require applicants to have legal status in the US. These can be searched online or through resources such as the National Scholarship Database for DREAMers.
It is important for undocumented students to reach out to their college’s financial aid office for more information on available resources and support for funding their education.
4. What efforts has the state legislature made to ensure equal opportunities for immigrant and non-immigrant students in higher education?
The state legislature has made several efforts to ensure equal opportunities for immigrant and non-immigrant students in higher education. These efforts include:
1. In-state tuition for undocumented students: Many states have passed laws that allow undocumented students to pay in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities, making higher education more affordable for these students.
2. Access to financial aid: Several states have also passed laws that allow undocumented students to be eligible for state-funded financial aid, which helps them cover the cost of tuition, books, and other expenses.
3. Non-discriminatory admission policies: State legislatures have passed laws prohibiting public colleges and universities from discriminating against applicants based on their immigration status. This ensures that all students, regardless of their background, are given fair consideration for admission.
4. Resources for immigrant students: Some states have created resources specifically designed to support immigrant students in higher education, such as scholarships, mentorship programs, and academic counseling services.
5. Language access services: Many states have enacted laws requiring colleges and universities to provide language access services for non-English speaking students, including translation services and multilingual college applications.
6. Protection from discrimination: State legislatures have also passed anti-discrimination policies that protect immigrant students from harassment or discrimination based on their race, ethnicity, or immigration status.
7. Outreach and recruitment efforts: Some states have implemented outreach and recruitment programs to encourage immigrant high school graduates to attend college and provide them with information about the resources available to them.
8. Partnership with community organizations: State legislatures have formed partnerships with community organizations that work with immigrant communities to identify potential barriers to higher education access and develop solutions to address them.
9. Support for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program: Many states have endorsed the federal DACA program, which provides protection from deportation and work authorization for certain undocumented individuals who came to the United States as children. This allows DACA recipients to access higher education without the fear of deportation.
Overall, state legislatures are continuously working towards creating a more inclusive and equitable higher education system for both immigrant and non-immigrant students.
5. How has Montana addressed residency requirements for immigrant students seeking admission into state universities and colleges?
Montana has fairly lenient residency requirements for immigrant students seeking admission into state universities and colleges. According to the Montana University System’s Residency Policy, individuals who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents may establish residency for tuition purposes if they have continuously resided in Montana for 12 months immediately preceding the start of the semester in which they plan to enroll, and can provide proof of their intent to become a permanent resident. The individual must also meet one of the following criteria:1. Have graduated from a Montana high school or obtained a GED in Montana; or
2. Be classified as an orphan or ward of the state by a court located in Montana; or
3. Be declared emancipated by a court located in Montana.
Additionally, the policy states that “residency shall not be denied based solely on immigration status.”
This means that even undocumented students who may not have legal status in the U.S. can establish residency and pay in-state tuition rates if they meet the other requirements listed above.
Furthermore, starting in 2018, Montana’s Board of Regents approved a waiver program that allows qualified undocumented immigrant students to pay the same tuition rate as other Montana residents at all public institutions within the state’s university system. This waiver is available to those who have lived with their parents or guardians in Montana for at least three years prior to graduation from high school, and have either attended high school in Montana for at least three years or received a GED through a program offered by a community college.
In summary, Montana has taken steps to ensure that immigrant students are able to access higher education without facing unfair barriers based on their immigration status. They also offer financial assistance and support through programs like the DACA waiver, which helps make education more affordable for undocumented students.
6. Is there any state-level legislation that provides in-state tuition rates for undocumented students in Montana?
There is currently no state-level legislation in Montana that specifically provides in-state tuition rates for undocumented students. However, there are initiatives and programs in place that may help make college more affordable for these students.
The Montana University System offers a program called the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE), which allows eligible out-of-state students to attend participating institutions at a reduced tuition rate, typically 150% of the in-state tuition rate. Undocumented students who meet certain criteria may be eligible for this program.
In addition, some colleges and universities in Montana also have institutional aid and scholarships available for undocumented students, such as the DREAM Fund at the University of Montana.
Overall, while Montana does not have specific legislation regarding in-state tuition rates for undocumented students, there are efforts being made to make college more financially accessible for these students. It is recommended that prospective undocumented students contact individual schools they are interested in attending to inquire about potential financial aid opportunities.
7. Has Montana passed any laws prohibiting discrimination against immigrant students during the college admissions process?
As of 2021, Montana has not passed any specific laws prohibiting discrimination against immigrant students during the college admissions process. However, the state does have broader anti-discrimination laws that protect individuals from discrimination based on race, national origin, and other protected characteristics in educational institutions. These laws may potentially apply to immigrant students during the college admission process. Additionally, some universities in Montana have policies in place to support and accommodate international and immigrant students during the admissions process.
8. Does Montana have any programs or initiatives aimed at increasing enrollment of immigrant students in higher education institutions?
As of 2021, Montana does not have any specific programs or initiatives aimed at increasing enrollment of immigrant students in higher education institutions. However, the state does offer general financial aid and support services for all students, including immigrant students. These include:1. Montana Higher Education Grant: This grant is awarded to undergraduate Montana residents who demonstrate financial need and are enrolled at eligible post-secondary institutions.
2. Tribal Scholarships: Montana offers various scholarships for Native American students, including the Indian Achievement Award and Tribal Scholarship Program, to help them pursue higher education.
3. Workforce Development Grants: These grants provide funding for workforce development training to individuals with barriers to employment, including low-income individuals and immigrants.
4. Support Services for Immigrants: The Montana Department of Public Health & Human Services partners with community organizations to provide support services such as English language classes, legal assistance, and social integration services to immigrants and refugees.
5. Dual Enrollment Programs: Montana offers dual enrollment programs that allow high school students to earn college credits while still in high school, which can provide a more affordable pathway for immigrant students to pursue higher education.
6. Office of Student Assistance Foundation (OSAF): OSAF provides resources and supports such as planning tools and information on scholarships and financial aid options for all students in Montana.
7. State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA): Montana is a member of SARA, a program that establishes national standards for interstate offering of postsecondary distance education courses and programs. This allows students from other states or countries to enroll in online courses offered by Montana colleges without being charged out-of-state tuition rates.
Additionally, many universities in Montana have offices or departments dedicated to supporting international and immigrant students on their campuses through cultural events, academic advising, counseling services, and more.
9. Are there any barriers, such as English proficiency testing, that hinder access to higher education for immigrant students in Montana?
There may be some barriers that hinder access to higher education for immigrant students in Montana, but they may vary depending on the individual circumstances of each student. Some potential barriers could include:
1. English proficiency testing: Many higher education institutions in Montana require students to demonstrate a certain level of proficiency in English before being admitted, usually through standardized tests like the TOEFL or IELTS. This can be a barrier for immigrant students who may not have had access to formal English language instruction or who come from non-English speaking countries.
2. Financial constraints: Immigrant families often face financial challenges, and this can make it difficult for their children to afford higher education expenses such as tuition, fees, and living expenses. Even if there are scholarships available specifically for immigrant students, many students may not meet the strict eligibility criteria or struggle with access to information about these opportunities.
3. Limited knowledge about the U.S. higher education system: International students may not be familiar with the American educational system and its various pathways to higher education, such as community colleges or vocational schools. Lack of understanding about different options and requirements could hinder their ability to navigate the application process.
4. Cultural adjustment: Adjusting to a new country and culture can also pose challenges for immigrant students, which can impact their academic performance and participation in extracurricular activities related to college readiness.
5. Discrimination and prejudice: Some immigrant students may face discrimination or prejudice based on their ethnicity, race, religion or immigration status which can affect self-confidence and motivation levels when pursuing post-secondary education.
6. Inadequate support services: Immigrant students may need additional support services such as counseling or tutoring due to the challenges they face during transitions into college life abroad; however, some institutions may not offer adequate resources tailored towards specific needs of immigrants populations.
In general, while there are likely some barriers that exist for immigrant students seeking higher education in Montana, it is important to note that immigrant students are a diverse group, and the extent of these barriers may vary depending on individual backgrounds, experiences, and circumstances. Efforts to improve access to higher education for immigrant students in Montana should take into account the unique needs and challenges of this population.
10. How does Montana support Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients who are pursuing a college degree?
Montana offers support to DACA recipients pursuing a college degree through its public universities and colleges. In 2018, the Montana University System Board of Regents approved a policy that allows DACA recipients to pay in-state tuition rates at all of its institutions. This makes pursuing a college education more affordable for DACA recipients.
Additionally, many colleges and universities in Montana offer scholarships specifically for DACA or undocumented students. The state also has programs such as the Montana Scholarship for Academically Achieving Students (MSAAS) and the Reach Higher Montana Scholarship Program that are open to all students, including DACA recipients.
There are also organizations in Montana that provide financial aid, legal assistance, mentorship, and other support services to undocumented students, including DACA recipients. Examples include the Governors’ Best and Brightest scholarship program, the Immigrant Justice Network of MT, and Dreamers Welcome.
Moreover, under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program at the federal level, eligible individuals can obtain work permits and temporary protection from deportation while they pursue their education. This provides additional support to DACA recipients in Montana who are attending college.
Overall, Montana has taken steps to provide support and resources for DACA recipients pursuing a college degree, making higher education more accessible to this population.
11. What measures has the state government taken to protect the privacy of immigrant student information on college campuses?
The state government of California has taken several measures to protect the privacy of immigrant student information on college campuses:
1. The California State Assembly passed the Student Privacy: Immigration Enforcement bill (AB 21) in 2019, which prohibits public colleges and universities from sharing students’ personal information with federal immigration enforcement agencies unless required by law.
2. In 2018, the California Community Colleges adopted a policy (Board Policy 5507) prohibiting campus police from assisting federal immigration officials with investigations or arrests, unless legally required.
3. Under the California Values Act (SB 54), also known as the “sanctuary state” law, all state agencies are prohibited from using their resources to assist federal immigration enforcement actions.
4. Many colleges and universities, such as the University of California and the California State University system, have declared themselves “sanctuary campuses” and have established policies in place to protect students’ privacy.
5. The state government has also provided resources and guidance for higher education institutions on how to protect immigrant student information and maintain a safe and welcoming campus environment.
6. The Attorney General’s Office has developed a resource guide for immigrants on their rights at school, including protections against discrimination and harassment.
7. Private institutions like Stanford University have created an Undocumented Student Resource Guide with information and resources specifically for undocumented students on campus.
8. The Student Aid Commission has stated that they will not disclose any personal information about undocumented students applying for financial aid to federal immigration authorities without a court order or subpoena.
9. The Department of Education has issued guidance stating that schools are not required to collect information regarding a student’s immigration status when enrolling in school.
10. Universities have established confidential counseling services for students who may be affected by changes in immigration policies or facing other challenges related to being an immigrant student.
11. Colleges and universities have also created specific training programs for faculty and staff on supporting immigrant students and protecting their privacy.
12. Is there any legislation in place to provide support services, such as counseling and mentorship, specifically for immigrant students in Montana?
Yes, there are various laws and policies in place to provide support services for immigrant students in Montana. These include:
1. Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA): This federal law requires schools to provide equal educational opportunities for all students, including immigrant students. Schools are required to identify and assist English language learners (ELLs) by providing specialized instruction and support services.
2. Title III Language Instruction for English Learners and Immigrant Students Program: This federal program provides supplementary funding to schools with high numbers of ELLs to support their language development and academic achievement.
3. Montana Indian Education for All Act: This state law mandates all Montana schools to integrate the history, culture, and contemporary contributions of American Indians into their curriculum.
4. Multicultural Affairs Program (MAP): The Montana University System has a MAP that supports diversity initiatives within higher education institutions and provides resources for underrepresented students, including immigrants.
5. Office of Public Instruction’s Migrant Education Program: This program is designed to assist migrant children in overcoming educational disruptions caused by their mobility or other factors related to migration.
6. Counselors for Immigrants Student Protection Law: This new state law, passed in 2019, requires public schools to appoint designated school counselors specifically trained in assisting immigrant students with academic planning and college preparation.
7. Mentoring Programs: There are several mentoring programs in Montana that aim to support immigrant students through mentorship and guidance. These include Big Brothers Big Sisters of Gallatin County, Youth Dynamics Mentoring Services, and Mentor Montana.
Overall, these laws and programs help provide a range of support services such as counseling, academic assistance, mentorship, language development programs, cultural sensitivity training for educators etc., that assist immigrant students in their academic journey in Montana.
13. Does Montana have any partnerships with community organizations or non-profits to provide resources and assistance for undocumented students pursuing higher education?
Yes, Montana has partnerships with various community organizations and non-profits to provide resources and assistance for undocumented students pursuing higher education. Some of these organizations include:
1. Montana Immigrant Justice Alliance: This organization provides immigration legal services, education, and advocacy for immigrant communities in Montana, including undocumented students.
2. Forward Montana Foundation: This non-profit organization offers resources and support for low-income and marginalized communities, including undocumented students, to access higher education.
3. One Class at a Time: This program provides financial assistance to help cover educational expenses for undocumented high school seniors pursuing higher education in Montana.
4. Montana Migrant Education Program: This program provides academic support, counseling, and other services to migrant students in Montana, including those who are undocumented.
5. The Dream.US Scholarship: This scholarship is available to qualified undocumented students who reside in states that do not offer in-state tuition or state-funded financial aid.
6. United We Dream: This national network of grassroots organizations includes a local chapter in Missoula that works to empower undocumented youth through leadership development and advocacy.
7. Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF): HSF offers scholarships and academic support services for Latino students, including those who are undocumented.
8. Immigrants Rising (previously known as Educators for Fair Consideration): This organization provides resources, training programs, and scholarships specifically for undocumented young people pursuing higher education.
Overall, there are numerous community organizations and non-profits within Montana that offer various forms of support and resources for undocumented students pursuing higher education.
14. Has there been any recent proposed legislation in Montana aiming to improve access to higher education for immigrants?
There is currently no legislation proposed in Montana specifically aimed at improving access to higher education for immigrants. However, the state does offer certain programs and resources that may benefit immigrant students. These include in-state tuition for undocumented students who meet certain criteria, scholarships specifically for immigrant students, and English as a Second Language (ESL) classes at most colleges and universities. Additionally, a bill was introduced in 2019 to create a grant program for marginalized students, including undocumented students, but it did not pass.
15. Are there any restrictions on undocumented individuals attending public universities or colleges in Montana?
There are no specific restrictions on undocumented individuals attending public universities or colleges in Montana. However, they may face challenges in obtaining in-state tuition rates or financial aid due to their immigration status. Each university or college may have its own policies and procedures for admitting and enrolling undocumented students, so it is important to contact the institution directly for more information.
16. How does Montana’s policy on tuition equity compare to neighboring states with similar demographics?
Montana’s policy on tuition equity is unique compared to neighboring states with similar demographics. Many neighboring states, such as North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wyoming, do not have any specific policies in place regarding tuition equity for undocumented students. Montana’s policy provides in-state tuition rates for eligible undocumented students, while these neighboring states do not have this type of legislation.
However, some neighboring states have implemented similar policies. For example, Idaho has a policy that allows eligible undocumented students to pay in-state tuition rates if they have attended an Idaho high school for at least three years and graduated or obtained a GED. Additionally, Idaho’s policy does not have an age restriction like Montana’s policy does.
On the other hand, some states have more generous policies than Montana. For instance, Washington provides state-funded financial aid to eligible undocumented students under their Real Hope Act (also known as the Dream Act). Similarly, Oregon offers state-funded scholarships and grants under their Oregon Opportunity Grant program to eligible undocumented students who meet certain criteria.
Overall, Montana’s policy on tuition equity falls somewhere in between neighboring states’ policies and ranges from being more restrictive than some but more generous than others.
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?
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:
1. Increase funding and resources for higher education institutions: The state government has allocated more funds and resources to universities and colleges to expand their capacity and accommodate more students.
2. Establish partnerships with private institutions: The state government has also established partnerships with private institutions to provide additional options for students seeking higher education, thus increasing the number of available spots.
3. Implement merit-based admissions system: Many states have implemented a merit-based admissions system, which considers both academic and non-academic factors in admitting students, to ensure that only the most qualified candidates are accepted into higher education institutions.
4. Offer scholarships and financial aid: Some states have also offered scholarships and financial aid specifically for immigrant students, helping them access higher education without putting a strain on limited spots for domestic students.
5. Introduce alternative pathways: The state government has introduced alternative pathways for students such as community college transfer programs or online courses, giving them more options to pursue higher education without competing for limited spaces in traditional universities.
6. Increase collaboration between high schools and universities: The government has also encouraged collaboration between high schools and universities to better prepare students for higher education, ensuring that they meet admission requirements.
7. Conduct awareness campaigns: State governments have conducted awareness campaigns among both immigrant communities and local residents about the benefits of diversity in higher education, promoting a positive perspective towards enrolling immigrant students.
8. Monitor enrollment trends regularly: To effectively manage enrollment trends, the state government regularly monitors data on student demographics and identifies any potential issues or imbalances in the higher education system.
Overall, these efforts aim to create a fair and inclusive environment where all qualified individuals can access higher education opportunities regardless of their background or immigration status.
18. Is there a state-level support system in place to help immigrant students navigate the admissions process and access financial aid resources?
Most states have support systems in place to help immigrant students navigate the admissions process and access financial aid resources. This may include:
1. State Education Departments: Many state education departments have websites or offices dedicated to helping students, including immigrant students, navigate the college admissions process. They may provide information on resources such as financial aid, scholarships, and special considerations for immigrants.
2. State Universities and Colleges: Public universities and colleges often have support services specifically for immigrant students. These services may include advising on admissions requirements, assistance with filling out financial aid forms, and information on scholarships available to immigrant students.
3. Nonprofit Organizations: There are many nonprofit organizations at the state level that provide support to immigrant students. These organizations may offer one-on-one counseling, workshops or seminars on financial aid and college admissions, and scholarship programs for immigrant students.
4. High School Guidance Counselors: High school guidance counselors play a crucial role in helping immigrant students navigate the college admissions process. They can provide information on local resources, assist with completing college applications and financial aid forms, and recommend scholarships for which immigrant students may be eligible.
5. Multicultural Student Services: Many colleges and universities have a dedicated office for multicultural student services that can assist immigrant students with the admissions process. These services may include workshops or events designed specifically for immigrant students, as well as individual advising on academic planning and financial aid options.
Overall, there are various state-level support systems in place to help immigrant students access higher education opportunities in the United States. Immigrant families should reach out to their state’s department of education or local high schools to learn about specific resources available in their area.
19. Has there been any notable success or impact on immigrant access to higher education since Montana passed legislation supporting this issue?
Yes, there have been notable successes and impacts on immigrant access to higher education since Montana passed legislation supporting this issue.
1. Increased enrollment of immigrant students: In 2013, the Montana Board of Regents approved tuition equity for undocumented students, which allowed them to pay in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities. This has led to an increase in enrollment of immigrant students in higher education institutions in Montana.
2. More financial aid opportunities: The passage of state-level legislation has also made it possible for undocumented students to receive state-based financial aid. This includes the Montana Higher Education Grant and the Reach Higher Montana scholarship program, which are now accessible to all qualified students, regardless of immigration status.
3. Establishment of support programs: Several colleges and universities in Montana have established programs dedicated to helping undocumented students navigate the college application process, apply for financial aid, and find resources on campus. For example, the University of Montana has a program called UM Allies that provides support and advocacy services to undocumented students.
4. Greater diversity on campus: With increased enrollment of immigrant students, campuses in Montana have become more diverse and inclusive. This not only benefits immigrant students by providing them with a welcoming environment but also helps promote diversity awareness among other students.
5. Increased economic potential: By providing easier access to higher education for immigrants, Montana is investing in its future economic potential. These well-educated individuals will be able to contribute back to the state through their skills and knowledge.
Overall, passing legislation to support immigrant access to higher education has had a positive impact on both individual students and the state as a whole in terms of diversity, economic potential, and social justice.
20. What are the ongoing efforts at the state level to continue improving immigrant access to higher education in Montana?
There are several ongoing efforts at the state level to continue improving immigrant access to higher education in Montana:
1. In-state tuition for undocumented students: Montana is one of 18 states that currently allows undocumented students to pay in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities. This policy helps make college more affordable for undocumented students and provides them with the opportunity to pursue higher education.
2. Financial aid for DACA recipients: In 2017, Montana passed a law that allows Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients to be eligible for state-funded financial aid, including scholarships and grants.
3. Outreach and support programs: The University of Montana, Montana State University, and other colleges have implemented outreach and support programs specifically designed to assist immigrant students in navigating the college application process, obtaining financial aid, and adjusting to campus life.
4. Policies addressing discrimination and harassment: Many universities in Montana have policies in place that aim to prevent discrimination or harassment based on immigration status or ethnicity.
5. Partnerships with community organizations: Some colleges have established partnerships with community organizations such as immigrant advocacy groups or legal aid organizations to provide resources and support services for immigrant students on campus.
6. Advocacy efforts: Immigrant rights organizations in Montana have been advocating for policies that promote access to higher education for all immigrants, regardless of immigration status. These advocacy efforts include lobbying state legislators and raising awareness about issues affecting immigrants’ access to higher education.
7. Cultural competency training: Some colleges in Montana offer cultural competency training for faculty and staff, which helps create a welcoming environment for immigrant students on campus.
8. Expansion of ESL programs: To support English language learners, some colleges have expanded their English as a Second Language (ESL) programs, providing additional resources and support for immigrant students who may need language assistance when starting their post-secondary education journey.