State Legislation Supporting Immigrant Access to Higher Education in Nebraska

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


Currently, there is no state legislation in Nebraska that specifically addresses access to higher education for undocumented immigrants. However, there are some policies and programs in place that affect the ability of undocumented students to attend college.

1. Tuition Equity: Nebraska is one of 19 states that offers tuition equity to undocumented students. This means that undocumented students who meet certain criteria, such as attending high school in the state for at least three years, paying in-state taxes, and graduating from a Nebraska high school, can qualify for in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities.

2. In-State Financial Aid: Undocumented students are not eligible for federal financial aid, but they may be able to receive state financial aid if they meet certain criteria. For example, the University of Nebraska system has a policy that allows undocumented students who meet the requirements for tuition equity to be considered for institutional aid.

3. Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA): The DACA program allows certain undocumented individuals who were brought to the US as children to receive temporary protection from deportation and work authorization. This could potentially help eligible individuals attend college and pay for their education.

4. Education Access Grant Program: Nebraska has an Education Access Grant Program that provides need-based grants to low-income undergraduate students attending eligible public or private colleges and universities in the state. Undocumented students may be eligible for this grant if they meet certain criteria, such as attending an eligible high school in Nebraska and obtaining an initial determination from their college or university certifying their eligibility.

Overall, while there is no specific legislation addressing access to higher education for undocumented immigrants in Nebraska, there are some policies and programs in place that can support their pursuit of a college education.

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


Nebraska offers several programs and resources to support immigrant students in pursuing higher education opportunities. These include:

1. In-State Tuition for DACA Recipients: Nebraska allows recipients of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program to pay in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities, making higher education more accessible and affordable for immigrant students.

2. Scholarships and Grants: The state of Nebraska offers various scholarships and grants specifically for immigrant students, such as the Nebraska Access College Assistance Program and the Dreamers Become Doers Scholarship Program.

3. Immigrant Access Fund: The Immigrant Legal Center operates an Immigrant Access Fund to provide financial assistance to low-income immigrants who are pursuing higher education in Nebraska.

4. English Language Learner Programs: Many schools in Nebraska offer English as a Second Language (ESL) programs to help non-native English speakers improve their language skills while also receiving an education.

5. Multicultural Centers: Several universities in Nebraska have dedicated multicultural centers that provide resources, support, and programming for immigrant students. These centers promote diversity and inclusivity on campus and often serve as a space where immigrant students can connect with one another.

6. Career Support Services: Some community organizations and colleges in Nebraska offer career counseling services specifically tailored to the needs of immigrant students, helping them explore career opportunities, develop job search skills, and prepare for professional success.

7. Advocacy Organizations: A number of advocacy organizations in Nebraska work towards improving access to higher education for immigrants, such as Justice For Our Neighbors – Nebraska, which provides legal services to low-income immigrants seeking education opportunities.

Overall, Nebraska has various programs and resources in place to support immigrant students’ pursuits of higher education, showing a commitment to creating an inclusive environment that values diversity and promotes educational equity for all.

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

There are not currently any specific financial aid programs available for undocumented students in Nebraska. However, they may still be eligible for certain scholarships and other forms of assistance through private organizations and institutions. It is important for undocumented students to research and reach out to different organizations and resources that may offer support for their education. Additionally, some colleges and universities in Nebraska have started to offer institutional aid or scholarships specifically for undocumented students. It is recommended to contact the financial aid office at your intended school to inquire about any potential options.

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 include:

1. Non-Discrimination Policies: Many states have passed laws prohibiting discrimination based on citizenship or immigration status in higher education admissions, financial aid, and other aspects of the educational process.

2. In-State Tuition for Undocumented Students: Several states have passed laws allowing undocumented students who meet certain criteria (such as attending high school in the state for a minimum number of years) to pay in-state tuition at public colleges and universities, making higher education more affordable for them.

3. Financial Aid for Undocumented Students: Some states have also passed laws allowing undocumented students to be eligible for state financial aid programs, providing them with additional support to pursue higher education opportunities.

4. Inclusive Admission Policies: Many universities have adopted policies that do not require applicants to disclose their citizenship or immigration status during the admission process, ensuring that they are not disadvantaged due to their immigration status.

5. Bilingual Education Programs: States with large immigrant populations have invested in bilingual education programs at the college level to support language development and academic success for non-native English speakers.

6. Support Services for Immigrant Students: Many states also provide support services such as counseling, mentoring, and cultural centers to help immigrant students navigate the challenges of higher education and succeed academically.

7. Recognition of Foreign Credentials: State legislatures have also taken steps to recognize foreign credentials and make it easier for immigrants and refugees with prior college experience from their home countries to continue their education in the United States.

8. Partnerships with Community Organizations: State governments often partner with community organizations that work directly with immigrant communities to provide resources and assistance to help students access higher education opportunities.

9. DREAM Act Legislation: Some states have adopted versions of the federal DREAM Act, which allows certain undocumented students brought as children to become eligible for legal residency and federal financial aid for higher education.

Overall, state legislatures have made significant efforts to promote equal opportunities for immigrant and non-immigrant students in higher education, recognizing the valuable contributions that immigrants bring to our society and economy.

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


Nebraska has several policies and initiatives in place to address residency requirements for immigrant students seeking admission into state universities and colleges. These include:

1. In-State Tuition for Undocumented Students: In 2006, Nebraska enacted a law allowing undocumented students who meet certain criteria to pay in-state tuition rates at state colleges and universities. To qualify, students must have attended a Nebraska high school for at least three years, graduated from a Nebraska high school or earned a GED, and provide proof that they have filed an application to legalize their immigration status.

2. Qualifying Non-Resident Exemption (QNRE) Program: This program allows non-resident students who meet certain academic and residency criteria to pay in-state tuition rates at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the University of Nebraska-Omaha, and the University of Nebraska at Kearney. Under this program, non-resident students can apply for exemptions if they are enrolled as degree-seeking undergraduate or graduate students and have lived in Nebraska continuously for one year prior to enrollment.

3. Residency Reclassification: Students who initially come to Nebraska from out-of-state may apply to become residents after completing their first year of study at a public university or college. This process requires individuals to prove their independence from parents as well as their intent to make Nebraska their permanent home.

4. Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA): Under DACA, undocumented immigrants who came to the U.S. as children may legally remain in the country and obtain work permits if they meet certain guidelines. As DACA recipients are considered lawfully present in the U.S., they are eligible for in-state tuition rates at all public universities and colleges in Nebraska.

5. Resources for Undocumented Students: The University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Office of Diversity & Inclusion offers resources and support specifically geared towards undocumented students, including information on applying for financial aid, scholarships, and other resources available to them.

Overall, Nebraska has taken steps to ensure that immigrant students have access to higher education opportunities and can meet residency requirements through various programs and initiatives.

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


No, there is currently no state-level legislation in Nebraska that provides in-state tuition rates for undocumented students.

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

I am not able to provide legal advice and recommend consulting with an attorney for questions regarding specific laws and regulations. However, Nebraska has passed the DREAM Act (LB239), which allows DACA recipients who meet certain criteria to be eligible for in-state tuition at public colleges and universities. In addition, the University of Nebraska has policies in place to protect against discrimination based on immigration status.

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


Yes, Nebraska has several programs and initiatives aimed at increasing enrollment of immigrant students in higher education institutions.

1. Nebraska Access College Grant: This program provides financial aid to students who are low-income, minority, or first-generation college students, including immigrant students. The grant can be used for tuition, fees, and books at eligible Nebraska colleges and universities.

2. Dual Enrollment Program: To encourage high school students to pursue higher education, this program allows them to earn college credit while still in high school. Immigrant students can take advantage of this program to get a head start on their college education.

3. Dreamers Project: This project aims to make higher education more accessible for undocumented immigrant students living in Nebraska by providing scholarships, mentorship, and support throughout the application process.

4. Merged Education Unleashing Rich Experiences (MEURE): This program offers academic support, mentorship, and advising services to immigrant and refugee students enrolled at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. It also provides resources to help with emotional and cultural adjustment.

5. Multicultural Affairs Office: The University of Nebraska-Omaha has a Multicultural Affairs office that provides support services and resources for minority and underserved student populations, including immigrant students.

6. Refugee Education & Training Association (RETA): RETA is a non-profit organization that works with refugees, immigrants, and other underserved communities in Nebraska to provide access to higher education through scholarships and academic support services.

7. International Student Resource Center: Many colleges and universities in Nebraska have an International Student Resource Center that assists international students with various aspects of their transition to studying in the United States, such as housing, immigration issues, language support, etc.

8. Outreach Programs: Many institutions have outreach programs that specifically target high schools with large immigrant populations or work directly with organizations that serve immigrants to promote higher education opportunities and provide information about financial aid options.

9. Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives: Overall, Nebraska colleges and universities are committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students, including immigrant students. They have ongoing diversity and inclusion initiatives to support and promote the success of diverse student populations.

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


Yes, there are several potential barriers that may hinder access to higher education for immigrant students in Nebraska:

1. Language barriers: Many immigrant students may face challenges with English proficiency, which can make it difficult for them to understand course materials and communicate effectively with professors and peers.

2. Limited access to financial aid: Immigrant students who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents may have limited options for financial aid, making it harder for them to afford the cost of higher education.

3. Residency requirements: Some colleges and universities in Nebraska have residency requirements that require students to have lived in the state for a certain period of time before they can qualify for in-state tuition rates. This can be a barrier for recent immigrants who may not have been living in Nebraska long enough.

4. Cultural differences: Immigrant students may struggle to adapt to the culture and expectations of American higher education, which could impact their academic success and sense of belonging on campus.

5. Admissions processes: Some colleges and universities may require standardized test scores, such as the SAT or ACT, which may not accurately reflect an immigrant student’s academic abilities or background.

6. Lack of support services: Immigrant students may not have access to specialized support services tailored to their needs, such as English language tutoring or cultural adjustment programs.

7. Anti-immigrant sentiment: In some cases, immigrant students may face discrimination or negative attitudes from other students and faculty members, which could create a hostile environment that hinders their academic success.

8. Legal status concerns: Undocumented immigrant students may face unique challenges due to their legal status, including fear of deportation or limited opportunities for employment after graduation.

9. Limited educational opportunities prior to arrival in the U.S.: Immigrant students who were unable to receive formal education before coming to the U.S., either due to political instability or lack of resources in their home country, may be at a disadvantage compared to other students who had access to quality education prior to college.

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

Nebraska offers certain resources and support for DACA recipients who are pursuing a college degree:

1. In-state tuition: Nebraska allows eligible DACA recipients to pay in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities, making higher education more affordable for these students.

2. Scholarships: There are several scholarships available specifically for DACA recipients in Nebraska, such as the Dream.US Scholarship and the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund (MALDEF) Scholarship Program.

3. Financial Aid: DACA recipients are eligible to apply for private scholarships and grants, as well as institutional aid from their college or university. They can also apply for state-based financial aid programs in Nebraska, such as the Access College Early (ACE) Scholarship Program.

4. Center for Legal Studies Program: The University of Nebraska at Omaha offers a program that provides free legal assistance to DACA and other undocumented students. This includes help with DACA renewals, naturalization applications, and other legal issues related to their immigration status.

5. Undocumented Student Resources Office: The University of Nebraska-Lincoln has an office dedicated to supporting undocumented students, including those with DACA status. They offer resources and support for academic success, career development, and mental health services.

6. Immigrant Legal Center: This nonprofit organization provides free or low-cost legal services to immigrants in Nebraska, including DACA recipients. They assist with DACA renewals, work permits, and other immigration-related issues.

7. Networking opportunities: There are student groups at many colleges and universities in Nebraska that provide networking opportunities for undocumented students, including those with DACA status. These groups may also offer mentoring programs and social events to help students connect with others who share their experiences.

8. Career Services: Many colleges in Nebraska offer career services specific to undocumented students, including those with DACA status. These services can include resume building workshops, job fairs targeted towards immigrant communities, and individual career counseling sessions.

9.Vocational education programs: DACA recipients in Nebraska are eligible to participate in vocational education programs at community colleges and technical schools. These programs can provide valuable skills and credentials for high-demand jobs, often at a lower cost than traditional four-year college degrees.

10. Advocacy and support from state leaders: Nebraska state lawmakers have introduced legislation in support of DACA recipients, including a bill that would allow them to obtain professional licenses in certain fields. The Nebraska Chamber of Commerce has also voiced support for allowing DACA recipients to work in the state.

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


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

1. FERPA Compliance: Colleges and universities are required by law to comply with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), which protects the privacy of student education records. This means that any information related to a student’s immigration status is considered confidential and cannot be disclosed without the student’s consent.

2. Non-Disclosure Policies: Many colleges and universities have adopted policies that prevent them from disclosing any information related to a student’s immigration status, except where required by law or for essential college functions.

3. Undocumented Student Resource Centers: Some colleges and universities have established resource centers specifically for undocumented students, where they can access support services without fear of their information being shared.

4. Data Encryption: Institutions may use encryption technology to ensure that sensitive data, including student immigration information, is protected from unauthorized access.

5. Limited Access to Information: Only designated faculty and staff members who have a legitimate educational interest in a student’s immigration status are granted access to this information.

6. Confidentiality Agreements: Employees who have access to sensitive student information are often required to sign confidentiality agreements, which legally binds them to keep such information private.

7. Prohibiting Inquiries about Immigration Status: Some states, such as California, have passed laws prohibiting colleges and universities from asking about a student’s immigration status during the admission process or while attending school.

8. Know Your Rights Trainings: Many schools offer “Know Your Rights” trainings for faculty, staff, and students, which educate them on how to respond if faced with an inquiry about a student’s immigration status.

9. Legal Services for Students: Some institutions provide legal services or partner with community organizations to offer free or low-cost legal assistance for students facing immigration-related issues.

10. Supportive Policies for Undocumented Students: In some states, legislation has been passed to allow undocumented students to pay in-state tuition rates and access state-funded financial aid programs.

11. Collaboration with Immigration Advocacy Groups: State governments may collaborate with immigration advocacy groups to develop policies and procedures that protect the privacy of immigrant student information on college campuses.

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


Yes, the Nebraska Department of Education has established the Multicultural/Minority Curriculum Development Committee, which works to provide support services for students from diverse backgrounds. This includes developing culturally responsive curriculum materials and providing training and resources for educators to better support immigrant students. In addition, schools may also offer counseling and mentorship programs specifically for immigrant students.

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


Yes, there are several partnerships and programs in Nebraska that provide resources and assistance for undocumented students pursuing higher education. A few examples include:

1. The Nebraska Appleseed Center for Law in the Public Interest: This nonprofit organization works to promote justice and opportunity for all Nebraskans, including undocumented individuals. They have a program specifically dedicated to supporting and advocating for immigrant youth, which includes providing resources and assistance for undocumented students pursuing higher education.

2. The Latino Center of the Midlands: This organization offers bilingual services and programs to empower immigrants, including undocumented individuals, in the Omaha area. They have a College Access Program that supports undocumented students in their pursuit of higher education by providing guidance on college applications, scholarships, financial aid, and other resources.

3. The Dream.US Scholarship Program: Nebraska is one of the states where this national scholarship program is available. It offers full-tuition scholarships to DREAMers (undocumented students who came to the United States as children) to attend partnering colleges across the country, including two universities in Nebraska – Creighton University and Peru State College.

4. The Immigrant Legal Center: This non-profit organization provides legal services and advocacy for immigrants in Nebraska, including DACA recipients and undocumented individuals seeking higher education opportunities. They offer workshops and individual consultations on immigration law-related issues that impact access to education.

Additionally, many universities in Nebraska, such as University of Nebraska-Lincoln and University of Nebraska-Omaha, have programs or offices specifically dedicated to supporting undocumented students with resources such as scholarship opportunities, legal support, academic advising, counseling services, and more.

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


As of the time of writing, there is currently no proposed legislation in Nebraska that specifically aims to improve access to higher education for immigrants. However, there have been several bills introduced in recent years that could indirectly impact immigrant access to higher education.

In 2017, a bill was introduced to allow undocumented students who graduated from Nebraska high schools and met certain criteria to qualify for in-state tuition at public colleges and universities. This bill did not pass and has not been reintroduced.

In 2019, a bill was passed into law that allows DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) recipients to apply for teaching certificates in Nebraska. This could potentially increase opportunities for DACA students to pursue higher education and careers in teaching.

There have also been ongoing discussions about various immigration issues at the federal level that could potentially impact immigrant access to higher education in Nebraska, such as changes to visa policies or funding for programs that support immigrant students.

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


Yes, there are restrictions on undocumented individuals attending public universities or colleges in Nebraska. While there is no official statewide policy, most public universities and colleges in Nebraska require proof of legal residency for admission. This means that undocumented individuals may not be eligible to attend these institutions. However, some schools have implemented policies to allow undocumented students to attend as long as they meet certain requirements, such as graduating from a Nebraska high school or having Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status. It is important for prospective undocumented students to check with individual institutions for their specific admission policies.

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


Nebraska’s policy on tuition equity, also known as the Nebraska Opportunity Scholarships Act, is similar to those of neighboring states with similar demographics in some ways and different in others.

One key difference between Nebraska’s policy and that of its neighbors is eligibility. Nebraska’s law applies only to undocumented students who meet certain criteria, including attending a Nebraska high school for at least three years and graduating or obtaining a GED, while some other states extend tuition equity benefits to all students regardless of immigration status.

In terms of demographics, neighboring states such as Kansas and Iowa have larger Latino populations than Nebraska. As a result, these states have seen higher enrollments of Hispanic students under their respective tuition equity policies compared to Nebraska. However, Colorado has an even smaller Latino population than Nebraska but has had a more inclusive policy since 2013 that extends tuition equity to all students regardless of immigration status.

Another important factor is the cost of tuition. In recent years, several neighboring states including Kansas and Iowa have either frozen or reduced their in-state tuition rates for all residents, making it more affordable for both documented and undocumented students. On the other hand, Nebraska has faced budget cuts which have led to increasing tuition costs across the board.

Additionally, there are differences in implementation and funding mechanisms among the different states’ policies. For example, while Kansas offers state-funded scholarships through its Kansas Promise Act, Iowa’s program relies on private donations to fund scholarships for eligible students.

Overall, while there are similarities between Nebraska’s policy on tuition equity and those of its neighbors with similar demographics, there are also significant differences in terms of eligibility requirements and funding mechanisms which impact access to higher education 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. These measures include:

1. Increasing the number of available spots: The state government has worked towards increasing the capacity of higher education institutions by building new campuses, expanding existing facilities, and creating partnerships with private universities.

2. Implementing affirmative action policies: Some states have implemented affirmative action policies that prioritize admission for underrepresented groups, including immigrant students.

3. Providing financial aid: Several states have established scholarship and grants programs specifically for immigrant students to help alleviate financial barriers to higher education.

4. Strengthening academic support services: The state government has invested in academic support services such as tutoring, counseling, and mentorship programs to assist immigrant students in their transition to higher education and improve their chances of success.

5. Promoting diversity and inclusion on campuses: The state government has encouraged colleges and universities to promote diversity on campus through cultural events, diversity training for faculty and staff, and creating a welcoming environment for all students.

6. Collaborating with K-12 schools: Many states have collaborated with K-12 schools to provide additional resources and support for immigrant students, such as college preparation programs and guidance counselors.

7. Conducting outreach efforts: The state government has conducted outreach efforts to inform immigrant communities about available opportunities for higher education and provide resources for applying to college.

8. Improving data collection: To better understand the challenges faced by immigrant students in accessing higher education, some states have improved data collection methods to track enrollment, retention rates, graduation rates, and other relevant metrics.

These measures aim to not only address concerns about competition for limited spots but also ensure equitable access to higher education for all students, 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?


Yes, most states have a support system in place to help immigrant students navigate the admissions process and access financial aid resources. This support may come in the form of state-funded programs, nonprofit organizations, or partnerships with schools and colleges. Some examples of state-level support systems for immigrant students include:

1. State Educational Opportunity Programs (EOPs): These programs provide academic and financial support to students from disadvantaged backgrounds, including low-income and first-generation college students, many of whom are immigrants. EOPs are available at public colleges and universities in most states.

2. State Financial Aid Programs: Many states offer financial aid programs specifically for immigrant students. For example, California has the CA Dream Act which allows undocumented students to receive state financial aid, and Texas offers the Tuition Equalization Grant to eligible non-citizens.

3. Statewide College Access Networks: Several states have statewide networks that help low-income and underrepresented students, including immigrants, access higher education through counseling, mentoring, and other support services.

4. Nonprofit Organizations: There are also many nonprofit organizations at the state level that provide assistance to immigrant students in various aspects of the college admissions process such as application assistance, scholarship opportunities, and guidance on navigating immigration status-related challenges.

5. College Outreach Programs: Many colleges partner with local high schools and community-based organizations to reach out to immigrant students and provide information about admissions requirements and financial aid opportunities.

Overall, there are numerous resources available at the state level to help immigrant students overcome barriers and successfully pursue higher education opportunities. Students can research these resources through their high school counselors or by contacting state education agencies directly.

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

There has been some notable success and impact on immigrant access to higher education in Nebraska since the state passed legislation supporting this issue. Here are a few examples:

1. In-State Tuition for Undocumented Students: In 2012, Nebraska passed legislation (LB239) that allows undocumented students who meet certain criteria to pay in-state tuition at public colleges and universities in the state. This has made it more affordable for undocumented students, who often face higher tuition rates as out-of-state residents, to attend college.

2. Support Programs for Undocumented Students: Several colleges and universities in Nebraska have established support programs specifically for undocumented students, providing resources and guidance to help them navigate the college application process and successfully complete their degrees.

3. Scholarships and Financial Aid: Some private organizations, such as the Omaha-based Dreamer Scholars Program, have established scholarships specifically for undocumented students in Nebraska. Additionally, with DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) policies in place, many undocumented students are now eligible to receive federal financial aid.

4. Increased Campus Diversity: The passage of these pro-immigrant policies has led to an increase in diversity on college campuses across Nebraska. This diversity brings new perspectives and experiences, enriching the educational experience for all students.

5. Economic Benefits: Providing access to higher education for immigrants can have positive economic impacts for both individuals and communities. Studies have shown that immigrants with higher levels of education earn higher incomes and contribute more in taxes, leading to overall economic growth.

Overall, while there is still much work to be done in ensuring equal access to higher education for all immigrants in Nebraska, the legislation passed by the state government has helped improve opportunities for these individuals and contributed positively to the state’s economy and cultural diversity.

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


There are several ongoing efforts at the state level to continue improving immigrant access to higher education in Nebraska.

1. In-state tuition for undocumented students: In 2015, the Nebraska Legislature passed a law allowing undocumented students who meet certain requirements to pay in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities in the state. This has made higher education more affordable for many immigrant students.

2. Scholarships and financial aid: The state offers scholarships specifically for immigrant and refugee students, such as the UNO Scholars Academy for New Americans and the Karen Bilingual Education Scholarship Program. Additionally, many private colleges and universities in Nebraska offer scholarships for immigrant students.

3. Collaboration between colleges and high schools: Some colleges and universities in Nebraska have partnered with local high schools to provide resources and support for immigrant students, such as mentoring programs and academic advising.

4. Multicultural centers on campus: Many colleges and universities in Nebraska have established multicultural centers that provide support services for immigrant students, including language assistance, cultural programming, and academic counseling.

5. DACA support: Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is a federal program that provides temporary protection from deportation to eligible undocumented youth who came to the US as children. Colleges in Nebraska have taken steps to support their DACA-eligible students by offering legal clinics, financial aid resources, and mental health counseling.

6. Advocacy work: Organizations such as Educators for Fair Consideration (E4FC) and Immigrant Legal Center work to advocate for policies that improve access to higher education for immigrants in Nebraska.

7. Outreach programs: Some colleges, such as Creighton University, have outreach programs dedicated to recruiting first-generation immigrant students and helping them navigate the college application process.

8. Cultural competency training: To better support immigrant students, some colleges offer training programs or workshops for faculty and staff on cultural competency and working with diverse student populations.

9. Language assistance: Many colleges offer language assistance programs, such as English as a Second Language (ESL) classes or translation services, to help immigrant students succeed academically.

10. Community partnerships: Colleges in Nebraska have established partnerships with community organizations and resources to provide support services for immigrant students, including legal clinics and housing assistance.