"California is seeing a steep decline in federal student aid applications from students whose parents aren't U.S. citizens. The California Student Aid Commission presented data last week showing that Free Application for Federal Student Aid submissions from this group, commonly referred to as mixed status, are down by 3,000, or 8 percent compared to the previous year. Applications for the California DREAM Act, which allows eligible undocumented students to receive state aid, are down by 41 percent. Over all, FAFSA applications in the Golden State are up 8 percent, according to federal data."
"Kangas and others say students' fears about exposing their loved ones to immigration enforcement or over how the federal government will use their application information are deterring them from applying for aid. Federal law does prevent the Education Department from sharing students' information, but fears have persisted amid the administration's mass deportation campaign. "When students have to weigh their financial and educational futures against the safety of their families, we are facing a college access crisis that further deepens inequities for immigrant-origin families," Kangas said, adding that the state has about 3.3 million students from mixed-status families, which represents "a core part of California's student population and workforce future.""
"CSAC has called for a coordinated campaign among K-12 school systems, colleges and other groups to encourage students to apply for the state and financial aid they are eligible for. CSAC officials repeatedly pointed out that the California DREAM Act Application has a safe option, noting that there are legal protections in place to protect students' information."
Free Application for Federal Student Aid submissions in California from students whose parents are not U.S. citizens declined by 3,000 applications, an 8% drop from the prior year. California DREAM Act applications fell by 41%. Overall FAFSA applications in California increased by 8% according to federal data. Officials warned that the decline harms undocumented students, mixed-status families, and California’s workforce. Students reported fears that applying could expose family members to immigration enforcement or that the federal government could use application information. Federal law limits sharing of student information, but concerns persisted amid a mass deportation campaign. The California Student Aid Commission called for a coordinated outreach effort and emphasized legal protections and a safe option for the DREAM Act application.
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