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As we approach the start of a new school year, it is critical that we are working to ensure all students across the country have access to strong postsecondary navigation support to advance their academic journeys and career opportunities. Last month, the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Postsecondary Education shared a proposed rule seeking input on changes to the Student Assistance General Provisions regarding participation in the student financial assistance programs authorized under Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965. Among the changes in the proposal is an expansion of eligibility for participation in Federal TRIO programs, which followed a previous approval from a negotiated rulemaking committee. 

The Federal TRIO programs are federal outreach and student services programs for individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds, including low-income and first-generation students, and students with disabilities. The proposed change would expand eligibility to these programs to non-citizen students who are enrolled in or are seeking to enroll in a high school in the U.S. This includes expansion of eligibility for the Federal Talent Search, Educational Opportunity Centers, and Upward Bound projects. In response to the Department’s RFI, America Forward submitted a comment of support, and encouragement for future policy expansions.

Access to high-quality tutoring, counseling, mentoring, and college admissions support to students regardless of immigration status is critical for facilitating the path to increased college enrollment and equitable upward mobility. A recent report has shown a decline in the enrollment of undocumented students in higher education since 2019.

The America Forward Coalition is committed to advancing economic mobility, strengthening our workforce, and supporting innovation through expanded educational opportunities for underserved students across the country, including  immigrant students, undocumented students, and Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients, who would benefit from the expansion of TRIO programs to non-citizens and permanent residents. America Forward applauds the proposed changes that would enable the pre-postsecondary educational TRIO programs that offer student services to expand their eligibility. 

Moving forward, we encourage the department to further efforts to similarly expand access to postsecondary TRIO programs. Enrolling in a post-secondary institution is one component of ensuring students’ success in college. However, it’s important to provide students with support while in college to increase their chances of graduating and give them the skills necessary to be successful in the workforce. Having a college degree serves as a catalyst for immigrant families to have economic mobility, which contributes to a more robust workforce, and stronger economy.

We are hopeful that the responses to the RFI will be thoroughly considered in helping the Department finalize these changes to lead to more equitable access to Federal Student Aid programs. 

To read our full letter of response, click here.