Proposal Would Block Immigrants Unlawfully in US From Florida Colleges

Students without lawful immigration status in Florida could soon be barred from admission to all 28 state colleges.

The Florida Department of Education proposed a new rule weeks ago that would require all public colleges to admit only students who are U.S. citizens or those lawfully present in the country. It could take effect as early as May.

The department is considering public comments about the rule through May 7.

If approved, the new rule would require colleges to adopt policies requiring applicants to provide what the rule describes as “clear and convincing documentation” proving citizenship or lawful immigration status before being granted admission.

Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Republican-led Legislature have made cracking down on immigration a priority in Florida.

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With the governor’s approval, Florida had previously eliminated in-state tuition for immigrant students who are in the U.S. illegally. The state Board of Governors also paused until 2027 the H-1B visa program that allows state universities to hire college-educated foreign workers.

The latest push is consistent with Republican efforts to limit public spending only for programs and institutions for citizens or immigrants with lawful status. State and local government funding for higher education totaled $7.7 billion in fiscal year 2025, plus $1.6 billion in tuition, according to a report from the State Higher Education Executive Officers Association.

Earlier this week, a group of immigrant advocacy organizations met ahead of a May 14 meeting, in which the State Board of Education is expected to discuss the proposed rule at Miami Dade College.

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