[jfox]

It is not uncommon for border states to have some kind of assistance for foreign students. Most universities and colleges also have the same allowances for international students. Undocumented citizens are not eligible for federal money but they are eligible for state aid. At public Texas universities the state aid awarded is revenue from tuition and fees. Portions are set aside for citizens and non-citizens according to the applicant pool and date of application. Award amounts are often not enough to cover the cost of tuition and fees, so it is hardly a free ride. Undocumented citizens are given a deadline to either follow the steps to become legal citizens or lose their aid.

US parents often think that they are entitled to financial aid and award amounts should cover 100% of students costs. A secondary education is not free. Aid is intended to be a supplement to funds the parent has set aside for the student. From personal experience it is difficult to consel a parent who has a 6 figure salary trying to explain why the student is only eligible for loans and not grant money. Once I mention loans it is about that time the parent tells me they only have so much money to maintain their luxury houses, vehicles and who should pay for their kids education. Ggrrrrrr