Applying to college can be difficult and stressful for anyone, but it can be especially challenging if you have a criminal record. If you have a criminal record but still want to receive a higher education, keep in mind that it is possible! While you might face some unique challenges, you can be accepted at the college of your dreams and get the education that you deserve. Read on to find out more information about applying to college with a criminal history, how to improve your chances of being accepted, and more.

Fair Chance Higher Education Pledge

In 2015, the Fair Chance Higher Education Pledge was created. This pledge ensures that all Americans have equal opportunities when it comes to a higher education. Many higher education institutions have signed this pledge agreeing that they will work to eliminate barriers that people with a criminal record experience. To learn more about this pledge, visit this page. This provides a great opportunity for those who traditionally may have faced stigma due to their criminal conviction.

Colleges and Universities that Have Signed the Fair Chance Higher Education Pledge

Here is a list of some of the colleges and universities that have signed the pledge. These are only some of the colleges and universities that have signed the pledge. Some other colleges will still consider you for acceptance even if they haven’t signed this pledge.

• Arizona State University
• State University of New York
• Auburn University
• University of Washington
• City University of New York
• Columbia University
• Cornell University
• University of Pittsburgh, Bradford
• Howard University
• College of Saint Benedict
• Boston University
• University of California System
• New York University
• North Park University
• Rutgers University
• San Francisco State University
• University of Puget Sound
• Nyack College
• Ancilla College
• Eastern University
• Saint John’s University
• Raritan Valley Community College

As you can see, there are some great universities on this list! These universities are a great place to start if you want to get a college education and you don’t want your criminal past to hold you back. These colleges will not deny your application based solely on your criminal history. However, this does not mean that you will automatically be accepted to any of these schools. You still need to meet their requirements and be a good fit for the school.

Getting Help

While many colleges and universities have taken the Fair Chance Pledge and are willing to accept people with a criminal record, there are still many colleges and universities that have not taken the pledge and do not accept people with a criminal record. Getting a pardon could help you get into the school you want because it will erase your criminal history. When applying to schools, you won’t have to worry about disclosing information about a criminal past. If you want more information or are looking to hire an attorney, call us or email us. We are happy to help you through the Connecticut pardon application process, answer any of your questions, and assist you with the pardon hearing.