States differ on illegal immigrants at community colleges

Raleigh, N.C. — Policies on allowing illegal immigrants to attend community colleges vary widely nationwide, a consultant told the board of the North Carolina Community College System on Thursday.

Maryland-based JBL & Associates surveyed policies in 11 states as part of the North Carolina system's effort to develop its own policy on the immigration issue.

The system's board in August affirmed its ban on allowing illegal immigrants to enroll, reversing a policy adopted in late 2007. The move came despite assurances from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that there was no federal regulation prohibiting illegal immigrants from enrolling.

California, Illinois, New Mexico, New York and Texas allow illegal immigrants to enroll in their community college systems at in-state student rates. Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia and Virginia charge the immigrants out-of-state tuition, according to the consultant.

South Carolina prohibits illegal immigrants from enrolling, the consultant said.

Because out-of-state tuition more than covers the cost of educating a student, a state could make money by allowing illegal immigrants to enroll at the higher rate, the consultant said.

No recommendations were made, and the board expects to receive the full report in April.

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Latest Comments

I have no problem with illegals paying out-of-state tuition! It is a boost for the state community college fund. Do the math people!! Not one NC citizen will be turned away in lieu of an illegal and in the end the state makes out. The laws have never mattered to NC when it comes to illegals anyway so whay not just make thenm pay 3 times as much for state services; it's the only way they contribute to state revenue anyway!!

roncorey1
March 26, 2009 4:33 p.m.

"Last I heard Illegal meant illegal! Why is this even an issue???"

Because life isn't that simple.

ignc73
March 20, 2009 8:02 p.m.

"Notice how many are driving on the highway at any time. "

You can SEE illegal immigrants as they drive on highways? Really? That's one HECK of a skill. Maybe you should work for INS since you possess such a unique skill.

ignc73
March 20, 2009 8:01 p.m.

Donnied52. I agree with you 100% Good post

ibbott41
March 20, 2009 5:09 p.m.

To answer your comment, they would end up not paying for tuition, they would get the grants and scholarships instead of the legal students and we would end up paying!!!

"Yes, let them go to college here. They will pay out-of-state tuition that more than covers their cost to go to school. Education will be the way for these immigrants to assimilate quicker."