Colleges Push Tuition Aid for Illegal Immigrants
Washington (AP) - Wading into the politically charged immigration debate, a group of colleges and universities is urging Congress to give illegal immigrants tuition aid and a path to citizenship in light of efforts in several states to block them.
The College Board, made up of 5,000 schools and best known for its SAT college admission tests, released a report Tuesday that cites a need for federal legislation that would open up in-state college tuition, financial aid and legal status to many illegal immigrants in the U.S.
Speaking publicly on the issue for the first time, the board is making its push after states in recent years have moved to bar illegal immigrants from paying in-state tuition and, in some cases, enrolling in their public colleges. It also comes as opponents are warning that immigration reform now could reduce already-scarce jobs and college enrollment slots in the ailing economy.
"This is a new area for us, but it was an easy call," said Thomas W. Rudin, a senior vice president for the College Board.
He noted the contradiction in which illegal immigrants who are legally entitled to a K-12 public education suddenly hit barriers when applying to college, even when many are "honor roll students, athletes, class presidents and valedictorians."
MOREJose, "I wanna go to your state college".
Admissions counselor, "Are you in this country legally?"
Jose, "No".
Admissions counselor, "Ok, you move to the head of the list. Here's your tuition money."
