Can Non-Citizen Inmates Access Education in US Prisons?
My cousin, who is not an American citizen will be serving time for smuggling drugs into the country. Can he continue his education?
Julia Bass
Yes.
1
Yes. Non-citizen inmates have access to mandatory GED classes and can earn a high school diploma while incarcerated. University-level courses are also available but require outside funding. Many inmates use their time wisely and leave with advanced degrees regardless of citizenship status.
https://www.inmateaid.com/ask-the-inmate/can-non-citizen-inmates-access-education-in-us-prisons#answer
Accepted Answer Date Created: September 19,2014
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About this answer:
This response was prepared by InmateAid’s editorial team in consultation with former inmates who have direct experience with the federal correctional system. InmateAid has served families of the incarcerated since 2012. This is general information only — not legal advice.
Last reviewed April 2026.