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Ice on Immigration: Out of Status students and college admission 

By L. Patricia Ice, Featured Columnist

Question:  I entered the United States without inspection or authorization with my parents when I was 2 years old.  I am still undocumented.  I just graduated from high school with very high grades in school and would like to become a registered nurse.  I would like to attend a college or university but I do not have a social security number.  Can I get admitted into college since I am undocumented and do not have a social security number?

Answer:  It depends upon what state or locality you live in.  Texas law allows certain resident undocumented students to attend college and to pay in-state tuition.  South Carolina recently passed a law prohibiting undocumented students from attending state supported colleges.  North Carolina prohibits undocumented students from attending community colleges, but not junior or four year colleges.  Mississippi does not expressly prohibit undocumented students from attending state colleges, but limits in-state tuition fees to lawful permanent residents and U.S. citizens at community colleges.  Each state and/or college and university system has its own rules.  The best thing to do is to check the admission policies of the colleges or universities that interest you.  You can find those policies in the college catalog in print or online.  You can also seek help from an immigrants' rights group or immigration attorney.  Good luck in pursuing your goal.