The discontinuation of the Latin American and Caribbean (LAC) scholarship has left many international students at Florida A&M University facing serious financial challenges and uncertainty about continuing their education.
The LAC scholarship, which previously provided partial tuition for students from Latin American and Caribbean countries, was a critical source of support for many. Without it, students are now struggling to cover rising tuition and living expenses. On Sept. 11, 2024, the Florida Board of Governors voted to discontinue the scholarship beginning in the fall 2025 semester and for all semesters moving forward.
“As an international student, that scholarship was a major source of support that allowed me to focus on my studies without constant financial stress,” said Sigmund Cypre, a student from the Caribbean. “Without it, I’ve worried about how I will cover tuition and living expenses each semester. I’ve had made several sacrifices. I’ve cut back on personal expenses, and I also skip meals.”
Other students echoed similar concerns.
“Losing the scholarship places financial pressure on me,” said Timoy Simmons. “I was worried about how I would pay tuition, housing and other necessary expenses. Worrying about it also distracted me from my studies. I was fortunate enough to obtain employment, which helps with the financial burden.”
For Simmons and other international students, obtaining a campus job is often difficult. Without a Social Security number, many positions are inaccessible, and most on-campus jobs are work-study, which international students are not eligible for. Simmons said several international students have already dropped out or taken time off because of financial strain.
“Some were affected mentally with this change as they had to think about accumulating the necessary funds, which can be stressful,” he said. “The scholarship helped many international students pursue higher education and a better life for them and their families.”
For Cecilly Nicholas, the loss of the scholarship has taken both a financial and emotional toll.
“I had to reevaluate my spending and cut back on enjoyable activities,” Nicholas said. “Getting a part-time job also means taking time away from my education. It’s been difficult to remain optimistic, but I’m resolved to persevere.”
Nicholas said her parents have had to triple their financial contributions to keep her enrolled. She hopes lawmakers and university administrators understand how deeply the scholarship removal has affected students from low-income families.
“This loss adds an unexpected strain to the financial sacrifices these families have made to fund their children’s education,” Nicholas said.
As international students continue seeking alternative funding, many are calling for renewed support or new programs to help them remain in school and complete their degrees.
