Undocumented Immigrants and Higher Education: A Call for Federal Change

Thousands of undocumented immigrants graduate from high school every year. Because of their immigration status, these students often find it difficult or impossible to gain college admission and subsequent financial aid. This article contends that federal policies should be changed to allow undocumented students access to financial aid programs and the opportunity to apply for legal citizenship status. Current federal policies are contradictory concerning undocumented immigrants and, as a result, society is unable to fully benefit from the contributions that this population could make to the United States.