About the Government Affairs Updates series
As the federal policy landscape continues to shift rapidly, potential impacts on higher education, and Metropolitan State University of Denver in particular, are top-of-mind. MSU Denver’s Office of Government and External Affairs, in partnership with University Communications and Marketing and experts from across the University, is providing timely, transparent and clear information through this series of Early Bird Q&A articles. Visit the Government Affairs website for more information and updates.
Q: On April 28, President Donald Trump signed an executive order directing federal action on immigration-related policies, including those related to in-state tuition. Will it impact in-state tuition or financial aid for undocumented students at MSU Denver?
A: Unlikely. Colorado’s in-state tuition and financial-aid policies remain unchanged. These policies, established under the bipartisan 2013 ASSET law and subsequent legislation, are grounded in state and federal law. Eligibility for in-state tuition and aid remains unchanged:
- Attending a Colorado high school for at least one year before graduating OR living in Colorado for one year before completing the high school equivalency exam and
- Continuous physical presence in Colorado for at least 12 months before enrolling in a college or university.
In response to the executive order, the Colorado Department of Higher Education reaffirmed that while federal executive orders shape federal enforcement priorities, they do not create new laws or override existing federal statutes. It is up to the State of Colorado to set eligibility requirements for in-state tuition.
The Trump administration could challenge the ASSET law. This challenge would take at least two years to get through the courts. Even if that challenge were successful, MSU Denver’s tuition classification is independent of the ASSET law and would remain in place. It will likely withstand any legal challenge.
Q: What recent updates should international students be aware of regarding U.S. visa policies?
A: Several major news outlets including the Associated Press is reporting that the U.S. State Department has temporarily paused the scheduling of new visa interviews for prospective international students. This pause is intended to allow for expanded screening of applicants’ social-media activity. However, this change does not apply to students who already have interviews scheduled. At MSU Denver, international students make up about 0.5% of the student population, so while the immediate impact on current students may be limited, future applicants may experience processing delays.
Resources and support amid shifting policies
To assist students and employees in navigating the evolving federal landscape – and to support wellbeing in general – MSU Denver has compiled a list of campus and community resources. These offerings are intended to provide emotional, professional and practical support as our community faces uncertainty and works through potential impacts together.
