State Legislation Supporting In-State Tuition and Financial Aid in New Hampshire

1. What is the current status of New Hampshire state legislation supporting in-state tuition and financial aid for residents?


As of April 2021, there is no specific state legislation in New Hampshire that addresses in-state tuition for residents. However, the state does have a policy known as the New Hampshire Dream Act, which allows undocumented students who meet certain criteria to pay in-state tuition at public colleges and universities in the state.

In terms of financial aid for residents, there are several state-funded scholarship and grant programs available to New Hampshire residents attending post-secondary institutions within the state. These include the New Hampshire State Incentive Grant, Middle Class Scholarship Program, Granite Guarantee Program, and Governor’s Scholarship Program.

Additionally, in March 2021, Governor Chris Sununu signed a bill that establishes a commission to study and make recommendations on providing free community college to New Hampshire residents. This signals potential future efforts to provide more affordable higher education options for residents.

2. How does New Hampshire state legislation ensure affordable higher education for local students through in-state tuition?


The state of New Hampshire has several laws in place to ensure that higher education remains affordable for local students through in-state tuition. These include:

1. The Residence Policy: All public colleges and universities in New Hampshire have a residence policy which determines a student’s residency status for tuition purposes. In order to qualify for in-state tuition, a student must meet specific criteria, such as living in the state for at least 12 consecutive months before enrolling in a program, having legal ties to the state (such as a permanent address or paying state taxes), and demonstrating intent to make New Hampshire their permanent home.

2. The Granite State Guarantee: This state program guarantees eligible first-time, full-time undergraduate students at the University System of New Hampshire (UNH) will pay no more than $5000 per year for tuition and fees, after all other sources of financial aid have been applied.

3. The Dual Enrollment Program: This program allows high school students to take college courses while still enrolled in high school, giving them a head start on earning college credits at reduced tuition rates.

4. The Unique College Funding Opportunity: Under this program, New Hampshire residents who demonstrate financial need can attend community college for free if they are pursuing degrees or certificates that are considered “high demand” by employers within the state.

5. The Governor’s Scholarship Program: Established by legislation in 2020, this program offers scholarships covering full tuition to qualifying low-income students attending any of the Community College System of New Hampshire (CCSNH) schools.

Overall, these laws aim to make higher education accessible and affordable for local students and help them pursue their academic goals without facing an overwhelming financial burden.

3. Which government agency is responsible for implementing and enforcing in-state tuition policies under New Hampshire state legislation?


The New Hampshire Department of Education is responsible for implementing and enforcing in-state tuition policies under state legislation.

4. What are the eligibility requirements for students to qualify for in-state tuition under New Hampshire state legislation?


The following are the eligibility requirements for students to qualify for in-state tuition under New Hampshire state legislation:

1. Residency: Students must be legal residents of the state of New Hampshire for at least 12 consecutive months before the start of the academic term.

2. Independent status: Students must have established their own domicile or have been claimed as a dependent by a parent or legal guardian who is a resident of New Hampshire.

3. Intent to stay: Students must prove that they intend to remain in the state after graduation and have not come to New Hampshire solely for educational purposes.

4. Financial independence: To be considered independent, students must demonstrate financial independence from their parents or guardians and be responsible for paying their own bills and expenses.

5. Employment: Students must have worked continuously in the state of New Hampshire for at least 20 hours per week during each semester they wish to qualify for in-state tuition, or have sufficient employment history prior to enrollment as evidence that they plan to work during their studies.

6. Taxes: Students must pay all applicable state taxes, such as income, property, and sales tax if applicable.

7. High school graduation: Graduate from a public or private high school located within the state of New Hampshire or received a GED certificate from within the state.

8. Enrollment: Be enrolled full-time in an accredited institution of higher education in New Hampshire.

9. Citizenship/legal residency: Students must be U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents with documentation proving lawful presence in the United States.

It is important to note that meeting these eligibility requirements does not guarantee qualification for in-state tuition status, as each institution may also have its own additional criteria that students must meet. It is recommended that prospective students contact their desired institution directly for more information on qualifying for in-state tuition under New Hampshire state legislation.

5. Has there been an increase in enrollment of local students due to the implementation of in-state tuition under New Hampshire state legislation?


It is difficult to determine the exact impact of in-state tuition on enrollment of local students. Some sources report that there has been a slight increase in enrollment of New Hampshire residents since the implementation of in-state tuition, while others suggest that the increase may be smaller than initially anticipated. It is important to note that other factors, such as changes in demographics and economic conditions, can also affect enrollment rates.

6. How has the availability of financial aid under New Hampshire state legislation impacted the cost of attending college for in-state students?


The availability of financial aid under New Hampshire state legislation has had a significant impact on the cost of attending college for in-state students. The state of New Hampshire offers several types of financial aid, including need-based grants, merit scholarships, and loan forgiveness programs.

One major impact is that it has made college more affordable for many in-state students. Need-based grants, such as the New Hampshire Granite Guarantee program, provide assistance to low-income students who may not have been able to afford college otherwise. This can help offset the high tuition costs at some colleges and universities in the state.

Merit scholarships, such as the New Hampshire Scholars Program and Enhanced Garden State Scholarships, are also available for high-achieving students. These can help cover a significant portion of tuition costs and make attending college more accessible for in-state students.

In addition to these aid programs, the state also offers loan forgiveness programs for those who choose to work in certain fields or areas with critical shortages (such as healthcare or education) after graduation. This can alleviate some of the burden of student loans for graduates and make it easier for them to begin their careers without being weighed down by debt.

Overall, the availability of financial aid under New Hampshire state legislation has helped reduce the cost burden of attending college for in-state students and make higher education more attainable for all New Hampshire residents.

7. Have other states modeled their own legislation regarding in-state tuition after New Hampshire’s successful policy?


Yes, several states have modeled their own legislation after New Hampshire’s successful policy of offering in-state tuition to undocumented students.

1. Texas: In 2001, Texas became the first state to offer in-state tuition to undocumented students through its “Texas Dream Act.” This was partly inspired by New Hampshire’s policy and has since benefitted thousands of undocumented students in the state.

2. California: In 2001, California also passed a similar law known as AB540 which provides in-state tuition benefits to undocumented students who meet certain criteria. This law was largely influenced by New Hampshire’s policy and has been widely successful.

3. Connecticut: In 2011, Connecticut passed a law allowing undocumented students who attended high school for at least four years in the state to pay in-state tuition at public colleges and universities. This law was strongly supported by immigrant rights groups and modeled after New Hampshire’s policy.

4. Colorado: In 2013, Colorado passed a law known as ASSET (Advancing Students for a Strong Economy Tomorrow) which provides in-state tuition benefits to undocumented students who meet certain criteria. The bill’s sponsors cited New Hampshire’s policy as an inspiration.

5. Maryland: In 2014, Maryland passed a bill that allows eligible undocumented students to receive in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities. The bill was largely influenced by New Hampshire’s policy and had been proposed multiple times before finally passing.

6. Rhode Island: In 2017, Rhode Island approved legislation that allows undocumented students who meet certain criteria to qualify for in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities. This law was modeled after similar laws in other states including New Hampshire.

Overall, many states have looked to New Hampshire’s successful policy as a model for providing opportunities for higher education for undocumented students. This trend is likely to continue as more states recognize the positive impact of inclusive policies on both individuals and communities.

8. What steps has New Hampshire taken to ensure that only eligible residents receive in-state tuition benefits under this legislation?


The following steps have been taken to ensure that only eligible residents receive in-state tuition benefits under this legislation:

1. Establishing Residency Requirements: The legislation specifies that only individuals who have established legal residence in New Hampshire for at least 12 consecutive months prior to enrollment are eligible for in-state tuition.

2. Providing Proof of Residency: Applicants must provide documentation proving their state residency, such as a driver’s license, voter registration, or lease agreement.

3. Verification of High School Attendance: In addition to proof of residency, applicants must also provide evidence that they attended a New Hampshire high school for at least two years and graduated or received a high school equivalency diploma.

4. Affidavit from Parent or Guardian: If the applicant is under 24 years old, they must provide an affidavit signed by a parent or legal guardian stating that the student has lived with them for the past 12 consecutive months.

5. Review by School Officials: Admissions officers and financial aid staff at each public higher education institution in New Hampshire will review all applications for in-state tuition benefits and determine eligibility based on the established residency requirements.

6. Ongoing Residency Checks: To ensure that students are maintaining their legal residency status, institutions may conduct periodic checks throughout the academic year.

7. Penalties for Fraudulent Claims: Any individual who makes fraudulent claims or provides false information to obtain in-state tuition benefits may be subject to penalties and repayment of any waived tuition costs.

8. Reporting Requirements: Each public higher education institution must report annually on the number of students receiving in-state tuition benefits, including demographic information and changes in institutional policies related to implementation of the legislation.

Overall, these measures aim to ensure that only eligible residents receive in-state tuition benefits under this legislation and prevent out-of-state students from taking advantage of lower tuition rates meant for New Hampshire residents.

9. Does New Hampshire’s state legislation provide any exemptions or special considerations for undocumented or DACA-eligible students seeking in-state tuition?


Yes, New Hampshire’s state legislation does provide exemptions and special considerations for undocumented or DACA-eligible students seeking in-state tuition.

The state’s higher education board adopted a policy in 2005 that allows undocumented students who have graduated from a New Hampshire high school to pay in-state tuition rates at the state’s public colleges and universities. This policy applies to both DACA-eligible students and those who are not eligible for DACA.

In addition, the state legislature passed a bill in 2018 that codified this policy into law. The law, known as HB 1680, requires public institutions of higher education to consider residency for tuition purposes based on where the student attended high school, rather than their immigration status. This means that undocumented or DACA-eligible students who have graduated from a New Hampshire high school may qualify for in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities.

However, this law still allows public institutions to set their own policies and criteria for determining residency for tuition purposes, so there may be differences between schools in how they implement this law.

It is important to note that while these laws allow undocumented or DACA-eligible students to receive in-state tuition rates, they do not provide financial aid or scholarships specifically for these students. Undocumented students may still be ineligible for federal financial aid and many scholarships due to their immigration status. However, some private organizations and individual colleges may offer scholarships specifically for undocumented or immigrant students.

10. Are there any specific academic requirements that must be met by students seeking in-state tuition under New Hampshire state legislation?

Yes, students seeking in-state tuition under New Hampshire state legislation must meet the following academic requirements:

1. Residency: Students must have legal residence in New Hampshire for at least 12 continual months prior to the start of the academic year. This includes maintaining a physical presence and intent to remain permanently in the state.

2. High School Graduation: Students must have graduated from a public or private high school in New Hampshire, or obtained a GED from a New Hampshire testing center.

3. Academic Progress: Students must maintain satisfactory academic progress as determined by their educational institution.

4. Admissions Selection Criteria: Students must meet the same admissions selection criteria as out-of-state students at their institution, and be accepted for admission to an eligible program of study.

5. Financial Independence: If the student is under 24 years old, they need to verify financial independence from their parents or legal guardians through tax returns or other official documentation.

6. Tax Documentation: Students must file New Hampshire state income tax returns if they had any taxable income earned during the 12-month residency period prior to enrolling in college.

7. VISA Status: International students on non-immigrant visas may not establish domicile for purposes of qualifying for New Hampshire resident tuition rates.

8. Intended Major/Career Goals: In some cases, students may need to provide evidence that they plan to pursue a field of study where there might be a critical shortage of trained workers in New Hampshire.

9. Public Benefit Programs: In some cases, students may need to demonstrate eligibility for certain federal and/or state public benefit programs related to education (such as Pell Grants).

10. Student Exchange Agreements: Students may also qualify for resident tuition rates if they participate in student exchange agreements between New Hampshire’s colleges/universities and those located outside of the state.

11. Has there been any opposition or pushback from out-of-state students or universities due to the implementation of this legislation regarding in-state tuition?


There has been some opposition and pushback from out-of-state students and universities regarding the implementation of in-state tuition legislation. Some out-of-state students argue that they have put in the same amount of hard work and dedication as in-state students and should receive the same benefits, including lower tuition rates. They also argue that implementing in-state tuition for undocumented students could potentially take away spots from other out-of-state students who pay full tuition.

Some universities have also expressed concern about the impact of offering in-state tuition to undocumented students on their budgets and resources. They may worry about losing out on revenue from higher out-of-state tuition rates or having to adjust their financial aid packages for other students.

However, supporters of in-state tuition for undocumented students argue that these measures lead to a more diverse and inclusive campus community, and ultimately benefit both the state and country as a whole. They also point out that providing access to education for all individuals, regardless of immigration status, aligns with the core values of higher education institutions.

12. How has New Hampshire’s economy and job market benefited from having more qualified local graduates with access to affordable higher education through this legislation?


The passage of this legislation has had several positive impacts on New Hampshire’s economy and job market.

Firstly, by making higher education more accessible and affordable for local students, this legislation has increased the number of qualified graduates entering the workforce. This means that employers in the state have a larger pool of skilled workers to choose from, leading to a more competitive job market. As a result, businesses are able to find the talent they need to grow and expand, which in turn boosts the overall economy.

Secondly, as more students from New Hampshire choose to stay in-state for their higher education, they are also more likely to remain in the state after graduation. This leads to a higher retention rate of educated workers in New Hampshire, which benefits the economy as these individuals contribute to local businesses and pay income taxes.

Moreover, offering affordable higher education options can attract out-of-state students as well, bringing in additional revenue for colleges and universities in New Hampshire. These students may also choose to stay in the state after graduation, further adding to the skilled workforce and boosting the economy.

Overall, with more qualified graduates and a stronger workforce, New Hampshire’s economy is better positioned for growth and prosperity. Additionally, having access to affordable higher education also helps reduce student debt burden on graduates which allows them to contribute financially to their communities sooner rather than being weighed down by loan repayments.

13. Have there been any challenges or limitations faced by institutions receiving funding from financial aid programs established by New Hampshire state legislation?


Yes, there have been some challenges and limitations faced by institutions receiving funding from financial aid programs established by New Hampshire state legislation. These include:

1. Limited funding: One of the major challenges faced by institutions is the limited amount of funding available for financial aid programs. Many of these programs have a fixed budget, which may not be enough to meet the needs of all eligible students.

2. Eligibility criteria: The eligibility criteria for some of these programs may be too restrictive or narrowly defined, making it difficult for certain students to qualify for aid.

3. Competition for funds: The limited funding available often leads to intense competition among eligible institutions and students. This can create an inequitable distribution of funds and leave some students at a disadvantage.

4. Administrative burden: Institutions receiving funds from financial aid programs may face an increased administrative burden in managing and disbursing these funds, which can take time and resources away from other important tasks.

5. Compliance requirements: Institutions must comply with various state regulations and reporting requirements in order to receive funding from financial aid programs, which can be challenging and time-consuming.

6. Uncertainty over future funding: Some institutions may face uncertainty over future funding availability, as state budgets are subject to change and financial aid programs may be reduced or eliminated in certain years.

7. Limited coverage for all student expenses: Most financial aid programs cover only a portion of student expenses, leaving many students with remaining costs that they must cover through other means.

8. Inequity between public and private institutions: There may be disparities in funding amounts between public and private institutions, as well as between different types of private schools (such as nonprofit vs. for-profit).

9. Restrictions on use of funds: Some financial aid programs may come with restrictions on how the funds can be used, limiting their flexibility for institutions and potentially hindering their ability to meet specific student needs.

10. Difficulty attracting out-of-state students: Institutions may face challenges in attracting out-of-state students, as financial aid programs are often limited to in-state residents.

Overall, while financial aid programs established by New Hampshire state legislation provide valuable support for students, institutions may still face challenges in effectively implementing them and meeting the needs of all their students.

14. How have local universities and colleges responded to the increased demand for attending as a result of this supportive financial aid provision under New Hampshire state legislation?


Local universities and colleges in New Hampshire have responded to the increased demand for attending by implementing various strategies such as expanding financial aid resources and partnerships, providing more need-based scholarships, and increasing outreach efforts to low-income students.

Some universities and colleges have collaborated with state agencies and local organizations to create financial aid packages that cover a larger percentage of tuition costs for low-income students. For example, the University of New Hampshire offers the Granite Guarantee program which covers 100% of tuition for eligible Pell Grant recipients.

In addition, many institutions have increased their outreach efforts to underserved communities to inform them about available financial aid opportunities. This includes hosting informational events, partnering with high schools and community centers, and providing resources on their websites.

Furthermore, some universities have implemented initiatives specifically targeting first-generation college students and students from low-income backgrounds. These initiatives include mentorship programs, academic support services, and workshops on financial literacy.

Overall, local universities and colleges in New Hampshire are working to streamline the process for accessing financial aid and make it more accessible for all eligible students. They recognize the importance of addressing barriers to education affordability and are committed to ensuring that all qualified students have equal opportunities to pursue higher education.

15. Have there been any amendments or updates made to the original version of this law regarding in-state tuition since its enactment?


It is possible that there have been amendments or updates made to the original version of the law since its enactment. To determine this, one would need to research the legislative history of the law and any subsequent bills or laws related to in-state tuition. It may also be helpful to consult with a legal expert or government entity responsible for administering the law.

16. How are the funds for in-state tuition and financial aid allocated and distributed under New Hampshire state legislation?


The funds for in-state tuition and financial aid are allocated and distributed under New Hampshire state legislation through a combination of state appropriations, grants, scholarships, and loans.

1. State Appropriations: The state legislature appropriates funds to support public higher education institutions in the state, including community colleges, the University System of New Hampshire (USNH), and the Community College System of New Hampshire (CCSNH). This funding helps lower the cost of tuition for in-state students.

2. Grants: The state also offers need-based grants to eligible New Hampshire residents attending public or private higher education institutions within the state. These funds are typically distributed based on financial need and may cover a portion or all of a student’s tuition costs.

3. Scholarships: There are numerous scholarship opportunities available to New Hampshire residents, including those offered by the state government. Some scholarships are specifically designated for in-state students studying in fields such as nursing or teaching.

4. Loans: The New Hampshire Higher Education Loan Corporation (NHHELCO) provides low-interest loans to students who demonstrate financial need. These loans can be used to cover a variety of educational expenses, including tuition.

The distribution of these funds is managed by individual institutions’ financial aid offices, which work with students to determine their eligibility and award funding accordingly. It is important for students to regularly check with their institution’s financial aid office for updates on available funding opportunities and application requirements.

17. Does New Hampshire’s state legislation prioritize or give preference to certain fields of study or professions when awarding financial aid to students?


New Hampshire’s state legislation does not prioritize or give preference to certain fields of study or professions when awarding financial aid to students. Financial aid eligibility is primarily based on need, as determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). However, some scholarships and grants from the state of New Hampshire may have specific criteria or requirements, such as studying in a particular field or pursuing a certain career path.

18. What plans does New Hampshire have in place to continue supporting affordable higher education for residents through this legislation in the future?


Currently, New Hampshire has several plans in place to continue supporting affordable higher education for residents through legislation.

Firstly, the state has a scholarship program called the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation Scholarship, which provides financial assistance to low-income students who demonstrate academic potential and financial need.

Additionally, the state offers need-based grants and scholarships such as the New Hampshire Part-Time Student Grant and the Competitive Scholarship Program to help cover tuition costs for eligible students.

Furthermore, New Hampshire also has programs in place to reduce or freeze tuition rates at public institutions, such as the Granite Guarantee and the University System of New Hampshire’s tuition freeze guarantee.

In terms of future plans, the state is continually evaluating and updating its financial aid programs to ensure they remain effective in addressing the evolving needs of students. The New Hampshire legislature also regularly reviews higher education funding and works with colleges and universities to keep costs down for students. Furthermore, there is ongoing discussion about implementing additional measures, such as expanding loan forgiveness programs or increasing funding for existing aid programs.

19. What resources or assistance is available for students and families seeking more information about in-state tuition and financial aid opportunities under New Hampshire state legislation?


Students and families seeking more information about in-state tuition and financial aid opportunities under New Hampshire state legislation can contact the financial aid office at the college or university they are interested in attending. They can also visit the New Hampshire Higher Education Assistance Foundation (NHHEAF) website, which provides information on state-specific financial aid programs and resources.

Additionally, students can reach out to the New Hampshire Department of Education for more information on eligibility requirements for in-state tuition and financial aid. The department’s website also has a list of frequently asked questions regarding residency requirements for in-state tuition.

Scholarship opportunities may also be available through organizations within the community such as local businesses, foundations, and civic organizations. Students should research these opportunities and reach out to the appropriate contacts for more information.

20. How has the overall educational attainment level and success rate of local college students changed since the enactment of New Hampshire’s state legislation supporting in-state tuition and financial aid programs?


The overall educational attainment level and success rate of local college students in New Hampshire has increased since the enactment of state legislation supporting in-state tuition and financial aid programs.

According to data from the National Center for Education Statistics, the percentage of New Hampshire residents with a bachelor’s degree or higher increased from 34.3% in 2008 (before the enactment of the legislation) to 38.6% in 2018. This is significantly higher than the national average of 32.1%. Similarly, the percentage of residents with an associate’s degree or some college education also increased from 31.2% to 35.1%.

Furthermore, since the implementation of the in-state tuition and financial aid programs, there has been an increase in enrollment and graduation rates among local college students. According to a report by the University System of New Hampshire, enrollment at public universities increased by nearly 12% between 2009 and 2017, and graduation rates have also improved.

Additionally, the average amount of student loan debt for graduates in New Hampshire has decreased since the state legislation was enacted. In 2008, the average student loan debt for graduates was $29,498 but by 2018 it had decreased to $27,167.

These statistics indicate that the support provided by state legislation for in-state tuition and financial aid programs has had a positive impact on both enrollment and graduation rates among local college students in New Hampshire. It has also helped make higher education more accessible and affordable for individuals who may have previously been deterred due to high costs. Overall, these changes reflect a successful implementation of state support for higher education in New Hampshire.