President Obama's decision to extend limited legal status to up to five million of the nation's 11.4 million immigrants who are in the United States illegally will open the doors to college to more people. But Republican governors who are fuming on the sidelines may try to stand in the plan’s way. Here's a look at what colleges can expect:
What higher-education benefits are at stake here?
Beneficiaries of Mr. Obama's executive actions will be eligible to apply for cheaper, in-state tuition and state scholarships in many more states, but federal student aid will still be off the table.
Many will also be eligible for driver's licenses, Social Security cards, and work authorization, making it easier to commute to campuses and participate in internships and work-study programs, said Michael A. Olivas, a professor of law and a national immigration expert at the University of Houston.
Being able to work legally at part-time or summer jobs will make college more affordable to them. And students will be able to travel outside their states without worrying about being deported when they show up at the airport.
Read more at The Chronicle of Higher Education: http://chronicle.com/article/How-Obama-s-Action-on/150171