Socioeconomic Impact of Implementation of In-State College Tuition for Discouraged Undocumented Students at Middle Tennessee State University

Abstract

Are there economic benefits in charging undocumented students at Middle Tennessee State University in-state tuition rates? Identifying positive and negative aspects that have a potential to affect the local community, the government, and the undocumented immigrants is complex. The discussion on applying in-state resident tuition to undocumented students is a topic recently explored in Tennessee. Yet, it has been gaining attention during the last few years because of political changes. This paper examines how a cost reduction of college tuition for undocumented students affects state revenue. Secondly, it analyzes the salary level difference between a college alum and a high school graduate, considering the academic major choices of undocumented students at MTSU. The policy proposed generates a higher tax revenue for the government. It creates larger benefits for taxpayers, who would receive more support in education, healthcare, and infrastructure, and increases the likelihood of undocumented children to enroll and stay in college.