Affordability is the chief determinant in whether someone pursues a college degree. Being able to qualify for in-state tuition, regardless of immigration status, is therefore critical for our young people.
In 2022, we supported what is now a law that allows more Latino students to pursue their dreams, give back to their communities and give back to Colorado.
Here is a summary of the legislation:
What it is: In-state Tuition For Colorado High School Graduates (HB22-1155)
What it does: The bill modifies requirements for an institution to classify a student as in-state for tuition purposes if the student:
Attended a Colorado public or private high school for at least one year immediately preceding the date the student graduated from the Colorado public or private high school;
Was physically present in Colorado for at least one year immediately preceding the date the student successfully completed a high school equivalency exam in Colorado;
Has been physically present in Colorado for at least twelve consecutive months prior to enrolling in an institution.
When it takes effect: May 26, 2022, when it was signed into law.
Other information of note: This bill was among our priorities because of what we heard during our Policy Forums last year — that despite the 2013 ASSET program to provide in-state tuition to undocument residents, many were being shut out of pursuing higher education. The bill fixes ASSET’s requirement that students attend 3 years of high school that eliminated generations of students - often from families where other members were eligible - from being able to afford higher education.