AB 91 creates unprecedented access for binational students

October 21, 2024 | San Diego Community College District
Twenty eight students and education leaders take a group photo at the bill signing

Leaders from California and Mexico gathered at Southwestern College on October 21 for the ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) finalizing AB 91.

Susan Topham signs a document while two women look on
The SDCCD was represented by Susan Topham, Vice Chancellor of Educational Services.

In a landmark moment for cross-border education, leaders from California and Mexico gathered on October 21 for the ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) finalizing Assembly Bill 91. This pivotal legislation, authored by Assemblymember David Alvarez and State Senator Steve Padilla, allows students living in Mexico, within 45 miles of the California-Mexico border, to attend San Diego and Imperial county community colleges at in-state tuition rates. Similarly, U.S. students are now eligible to attend Baja institutions and pay resident tuition rates.

Students from Baja California who are interested in attending San Diego City, Mesa, or Miramar College as part AB 91, can start in the Spring 2025 semester.

Learn More About The Binational Student Program

Many students, who have been forced to relocate to neighboring regions of Mexico due to the high cost of living in California, will now have unprecedented access to affordable higher education. By reducing tuition barriers, AB 91 ensures that students on both sides of the border can pursue their academic goals, strengthening educational equity and creating new opportunities for growth in the region.

The broader impact of AB 91 extends beyond individual students. By increasing educational access and affordability, the legislation is poised to bolster the economic health of the Cali-Baja region, which relies on a skilled, well-educated workforce to compete in a globalized economy. The cross-border collaboration between educational institutions also strengthens the relationship between California and Mexico, making the region a dynamic hub of opportunity and innovation.

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