Florida Board of Governors Votes to Ban Undocumented Students from Public Universities

On September 3, 2026, the Florida Board of Governors voted unanimously to prohibit undocumented students from enrolling in Florida’s public universities, effective for the 2027-28 academic year. This decision makes Florida the largest state to implement such a ban on state-funded higher education for undocumented individuals. The policy states that 'a person who is present in the United States unlawfully shall not be eligible for initial enrollment in any state university.' Florida joins Alabama, Georgia, and South Carolina in adopting similar prohibitive enrollment policies. This decision follows a June vote by the State Board of Education that banned undocumented immigrants from enrolling in state colleges and adult education programs. While exact figures are unavailable, it is estimated that at least 4,672 undocumented students were enrolled in Florida’s state colleges in the 2024-25 academic year, with approximately 2,000 more in state universities. Previously, some undocumented students had access to in-state tuition through out-of-state tuition waivers. The ban comes amid a broader crackdown on immigration policies in Florida. During the meeting, public comments were made against the ban, including remarks from Kaili Taylor, a senior at Florida Gulf Coast University, who stated that public colleges should expand opportunities rather than restrict access. Gustavo Rivera, state director for the League of United Latin American Citizens, criticized the decision, highlighting the potential economic impact on Florida’s workforce. Robert Cassanello, president of the United Faculty of Florida, expressed concern over the decision as an example of government overreach, noting that the Florida Legislature had previously rejected similar bills. He argued that undocumented students could contribute positively to the state’s economy if allowed to pursue higher education. Maria Barbero, a professor at Florida Gulf Coast University, questioned how the ban aligns with the mission and values of the state university system.