Exclusive | Californias free ride means illegal migrants get money for college while Golden State natives pay big

California is paying tens of millions of dollars for illegal immigrants to attend college — infuriating Golden State natives struggling to pay their tuition.California provides illegal migrant students with state-funded grants and other financial aid, while thousands can also benefit from in-state tuition rates, waivers for community college fees and subsidized loans.Approximately 102,000 illegal migrants were attending California colleges and universities as of 2023, the largest share of any state in the US.The staggering benefits come as many middle-class California families struggle to qualify for substantial financial aid while facing college costs that can easily run above $45,000 a year.University of Southern California senior Ava Schmidt, 21, called the disparity “ridiculous.”Schmidt, a political science major who grew up in the Bay Area, said she received just $2,000 in financial aid last year — forcing her father to dip into his retirement savings and take out loans to cover the rest.With USC tuition now topping $75,000 a year, Schmidt works an off-campus job to help pay her way but said she still struggles to cover rent and groceries.She also wanted access to work-study programs, but said she was not offered a slot.“I felt like I did all the work to earn my spot in this in this school,” Schmidt told the California Post.“And yet I’m the one that’s not getting aid, and undocumented illegal aliens are instead getting that money.” California's top news, sports and entertainment delivered to your inbox every day.

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Never miss a story California offers one of the country’s broadest systems of state financial assistance available to qualifying illegal students.Those who meet income, academic and other eligibility requirements can apply for state Cal Grants through the California Dream Act Ap...