Rhode Island to Offer In-State Tuition to Undocumented Students

Rhode Island joins 13 other states that offer in-state tuition, scholarships or student loans to undocumented students.

By Jorge Rivas Sep 27, 2011

Rhode Island’s State Board of Governors for Higher Education unanimously approved granting in-state tuition to undocumented students who attend public colleges and universities.

Students must meet three provisions to be eligible for in-state tuition: They must have attended school in the state for three years, graduated from one of the state’s high schools, and sign an affidavit confirming that they’re seeking legal status.

Rhode Island Governor Lincoln Chafee and House Speaker Gordon Fox announced their support for the measure before Monday’s vote. In a letter to the Board of Governors, Governor Chafee wrote:

"This policy change will improve the intellectual and culture life of Rhode Island while strengthening our workforce and helping our economy. Extending in-state tution rates to undocumented students will allow more Rhode Islanders to achieve the dream of a college education, as well as the positive economic and civic opportunities associated with a college diploma."

The measure which will take effect next September.

Rhode Island joins 13 other states that offer in-state tuition, scholarships or student loans to undocumented students, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.