Florida Revokes In-State Tuition for DACA Students, Sparking Concerns Over Education Costs
Thousands of immigrant students in Florida face a financial dilemma as the state abolishes a program that allowed those under DACA protections to pay in-state tuition rates. This change forces many to reassess their ability to afford higher education.
MICHEL MARTIN, HOST: Across approximately two dozen states, immigrant students with DACA status have benefited from in-state tuition rates, significantly reducing education costs. However, this benefit is under threat amidst a broader immigration crackdown. Nancy Guan from WUSF reports that Florida has already rescinded this advantage.
NANCY GUAN, BYLINE: At Seminole State College in Sanford, Florida, Hernan, a DACA recipient, gazes at alumni photos on the walls, aspiring to join their ranks one day.
HERNAN: They’re pretty professional people. She graduated in 2018. Maybe one day I’ll be here, too (laughter).
GUAN: Hernan, who requested anonymity due to immigration concerns, was brought from Mexico to the U.S. as a child. Currently a junior studying construction management, he believes a bachelor’s degree will advance his career beyond landscaping, a field he’s been in since 16.
HERNAN: I will need this for higher, like, manager or even corporate positions – like, up there. I feel that if I don’t have this right now, I can’t begin my life.
GUAN: Hernan needs nine more classes to graduate, but a new state law threatens to delay his plans. This law, set to take effect soon, removes the waiver allowing DACA students who attended a Florida high school for three years to pay in-state tuition. Without access to federal or state financial aid, Hernan and others face a significant financial burden.
(SOUNDBITE OF ARCHIVED RECORDING)
RANDY FINE: It is immoral to charge people who shouldn’t even be in the country a vastly discounted price.
GUAN: Former Florida state Senator, now Congressman Randy Fine, voiced this sentiment at a January committee meeting. Supporters of the repeal argue it discourages illegal immigration. According to Florida’s higher education systems, thousands could lose their tuition waivers. Diego Sanchez of the Presidents’ Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration highlights the impact.
DIEGO SANCHEZ: They didn’t just block future students. They basically pulled the rug out from under students who are already enrolled, already paying, who relied on this waiver, and many who were already on track to graduate.
GUAN: Sanchez notes that Republican legislatures in several states have attempted similar reversals this year, but Florida remains the only state to succeed. Hernan anticipates his tuition will triple, needing about $15,000 for his remaining courses instead of $4,000. Yet, he remains optimistic.
HERNAN: We just got to adapt. That’s one of my favorite words – adapt (laughter). I got to adapt to the changes, you know, in current society, you know?
GUAN: Hernan considers seeking private scholarships or loans to cover the increased costs, or he might work full-time for a year to save money.
HERNAN: I consider this state my home. And it will be my home until the last stage – you know, where they kick me out, or they deport me. But as far, I’m going to keep fighting.
GUAN: Hernan remains determined to complete his degree, regardless of the obstacles.
For NPR News, I’m Nancy Guan in Sanford, Florida.
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