Trump Administration Challenges California's Tuition Policy for Undocumented Students

Sat Nov 22 2025 16:05:57 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

The U.S. District Court is set to hear a case against California's provision of in-state tuition and financial aid for undocumented students, as the Trump administration escalates its litigation against similar state policies. Advocates argue this is a vital support for many who are integral to their communities.

In a significant legal move, the Trump administration has filed a lawsuit against California, claiming that the state’s practice of offering in-state tuition and financial aid to undocumented students is unconstitutional. The case highlights the ongoing tension between federal immigration law and state policies, particularly as supporters defend the educational opportunities for those raised in California. The lawsuit indicates a larger trend, with the administration targeting similar laws across several states.

SAN DIEGO (AP) — The Trump administration has launched legal action against California, contesting its policy of offering in-state college tuition and financial aid to students lacking legal status in the U.S.

The lawsuit, which was filed Thursday in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of California, contends this practice harms U.S. citizens and fosters illegal immigration. The defendants include California state officials and both public university systems in the state, namely the University of California and California State.

This case is part of a broader strategy by the Trump administration, having previously filed lawsuits regarding similar policies in states such as Illinois, Oklahoma, Minnesota, Kentucky, and Texas. Notably, recent actions in these states have led to the repeal of laws that allowed in-state tuition for undocumented students.

Supporters of California's tuition policies assert they do not contravene federal law since residents of the state who are U.S. citizens are offered the same tuition rates. Furthermore, California's Dream Act permits these students to access state-funded financial aid.

Many affected students came to the U.S. as children and have since become interwoven within their communities, which advocates emphasize underscores their right to education and support.

The lawsuit marks another move by the Trump administration following executive orders aimed at limiting public benefits for undocumented immigrants and challenging state policies perceived as favoring them over American citizens. Attorney General Pamela Bondi expressed that California's actions unfairly discriminate against American students and families.

The University of California has characterized its tuition policy as lawful and consistent with existing legal standards. Moreover, the institution faces additional challenges, including potential federal funding suspensions linked to broader misconduct allegations.

The California State University, which hosts a diverse body of over 460,000 students, along with the University of California, which serves about 300,000 students, both contend that these financial avenues are vital for many first-generation college students and those navigating uncertain immigration status.