Texas Dream Act Repeal: What the Ruling Means for Undocumented Students and Their Families

I have witnessed firsthand the determination and resilience of immigrant students who pursue higher education against all odds. For over two decades, the Texas Dream Act provided a path to affordability and opportunity for undocumented students in our state. That lifeline has now been cut short.

On September 9, 2025, a federal judge struck down the Texas Dream Act, leaving thousands of students in a state of uncertainty and fear (El País coverage). This ruling means undocumented students will no longer qualify for in-state tuition rates or state-funded financial aid. For many families already struggling to make ends meet, this decision may place higher education entirely out of reach.

Uncle Sam as the ender of dreams

What Was the Texas Dream Act?

Passed in 2001, the Texas Dream Act was a bipartisan effort that made Texas the first state in the nation to grant in-state tuition to undocumented students who had lived in the state for a certain number of years and graduated from a Texas high school.

This law acknowledged a simple truth: many undocumented students were raised in Texas, attended Texas schools, and contributed to their communities just like their U.S. citizen peers. By allowing access to affordable tuition, the state invested in a stronger, more skilled workforce.

The repeal not only disrupts the lives of these students—it undermines over 20 years of progress.

The Human Impact of the Ruling

Behind every policy decision are real people. Consider this: a student who grew up in Houston, graduated with honors, and dreamed of becoming a nurse may now be forced to abandon college because the tuition rate has more than tripled overnight.

Without in-state rates, annual tuition at a Texas public university can jump from about $11,000 to over $30,000. For families earning low or unstable incomes, that is an impossible gap. Many will now face two options: take on crippling debt or give up their educational goals altogether.

This ruling sends a chilling message to immigrant families—your children’s hard work and aspirations may not matter as much as the documents you lack.

The Broader Legal and Political Context

This decision also represents a dangerous shift in how immigration intersects with state law. For decades, education has been recognized as a fundamental tool for integration and stability. By removing access to affordable education, Texas has effectively punished a generation of students for circumstances beyond their control.

The elimination of the Texas Dream Act also aligns with a broader national trend of increasingly restrictive immigration measures. We have already seen attacks on DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) at the federal level, along with state laws like SB 4, which seek to expand local law enforcement’s role in immigration.

Together, these measures form a pattern: diminishing pathways for immigrants to thrive and increasing systemic barriers that perpetuate inequality.

What Families Can Do Now

While this ruling is a significant setback, undocumented students and their families are not without options. Here are a few key steps to consider:

• Explore private scholarships – Many organizations and nonprofits still provide scholarships to undocumented students, regardless of legal status.

• Seek legal counsel – In some cases, students may qualify for adjustment of status or other immigration relief that could eventually provide lawful presence and more opportunities.

• Stay engaged in advocacy – Grassroots organizations and immigrant rights groups are mobilizing to push back against this decision. Joining these efforts can amplify the voices of those most affected.

• Consider community colleges – Some local institutions may offer more affordable tuition or flexible payment plans, serving as a stepping stone to a four-year degree.

Why This Matters for All Texans

It is important to emphasize that the elimination of the Texas Dream Act is not just an immigrant issue—it is a Texas issue. Our state’s economy thrives on innovation, skilled labor, and diversity. Denying access to higher education for thousands of motivated students weakens our workforce and hampers our future growth.

Studies consistently show that undocumented students who graduate from college contribute significantly to local economies, pay taxes, and strengthen communities. Removing educational opportunities is short-sighted and harms all Texans in the long run.

Final Thoughts

As an immigration attorney, I see the fear and uncertainty in the eyes of my clients. But I also see their courage. While the end of the Texas Dream Act is a painful setback, it is not the end of the road. Students and families must continue to seek out opportunities, assert their rights, and demand fairness from our legal system.

At Restrepo Law, we remain committed to guiding immigrant families through these challenging times. Education should never be a privilege limited by paperwork—it should be a promise extended to all who call Texas home.

If you or your family have questions about how this ruling affects your educational or immigration status, contact my office today. Together, we can navigate this uncertain future and fight for the opportunities every student deserves.