By The Latino Movement
Non-status Latinos in the United States face many challenges that cannot be answered all at one time. Today, it is better to focus on only one. Do non-status Latinos have the opportunity to enroll in universities and vocational schools here in the United States of America? Maybe, however the answer is even more complex than we could think. But, under different circumstances not everything is lost, because believe it or not, to answer this question, we must look at individual state laws. The map and the chart below, can be used to understand a little more on how it works.
From the previous answer, the opportunities are not the same, in comparison with those of legal status. That does not mean that all doors are closed. The map shows that there are 17 states in which a person without status can study in both higher education (university and colleges), and in continuing education of intermediate careers such as vocational schools. On the other hand, in 28 states, higher education institutions are not prohibited from admitting students without status but are free to do so or not. Finally, in 5 states people without valid legal status are prohibited from enrolling in higher education institutions.
Chart 1. Chart of In-State Tuition allowance of in-state tuition for non-status people.
Although there are restrictions on tuition regarding legal status depending on each state, we know that it is possible to pursue an education. After knowing that it is possible to study and there is a desire to do it, the next thing is to look for the economic funds to cover tuition. Currently, the average annual cost of public community colleges across the country is $5,319. For private colleges, the average annual tuition is approximately $15,481 per year based on “Community College Review website”, It can vary based on different sources. This does not include the costs of books and additional charges that generate at the time of registration and during studies. On many occasions, there is not enough money to undertake this path, which along the way comes with more obstacles and additional expenses. That is why we must create a way to generate support for Latinos who want to study and progress in their educational goals. This help is needed by Latinos without valid legal status, considering that those with valid legal status have access to multiple aids and opportunities.
The sole objective of Latino Movement is to support the Latino community who have the desire to grow and overcome their current academic and economic situation. Education gives the opportunity to develop on a personal level generating a better quality of life. We want to make use of our capacity to focus help on Latinos who, regardless of age, legal status, or area of study, can apply through our organization. Our goal is to bridge the gap for those who have all the skills, but don't have the resources.
Focusing on the initial question, “Do non status Latinos have the opportunity to enroll in universities and vocational schools here in the United States of America?” Well, we can say that our answer is our goal; We are going to generate opportunities to level the balance. We know that each postgraduate student will continue to contribute to the economic and social development of this country, being an example of self-improvement and a model to follow.