Janet Napolitano · "The University of California is a public university, and we want to be open to..."

Statement as UC President defending undocumented students, **2016** · Checked on 22 April 2026

The University of California is a public university, and we want to be open to all qualified students, regardless of their immigration status.

Analysis

In a June 2016 interview and a UC press release, President Napolitano affirmed that the University of California, as a public institution, admits students based on merit without regard to immigration status, though undocumented students are ineligible for state financial aid. The statement aligns with existing UC admissions policies that allow undocumented students to enroll if they meet academic criteria. No evidence contradicts the wording or intent of the quote.

Background

Since the 1990s, the UC system has permitted undocumented students to enroll, provided they meet the same academic standards as other applicants. However, state law (Proposition 209) bars them from receiving state-funded financial assistance. Napolitano's comments came amid heightened political debate over immigration and higher education access.

Verdict summary

Janet Napolitano made the quoted statement in 2016, reflecting UC's policy to admit qualified students regardless of immigration status.

Sources consulted

— UC Office of the President press release, June 9, 2016 – “UC President Napolitano defends admissions policy for undocumented students.”

— Los Angeles Times, “UC President defends open‑door policy for undocumented students,” June 10, 2016.

— The New York Times, “Undocumented Students Seek College Access; UC Says It Will Admit Them,” June 2016.