Students who were born in New York and other neighboring states will have to pay full price, of course.

Matt Friedman of the Star Ledger reports.

Chris Christie and N.J. Democrats reach agreement on DREAM Act

Students who grew up in New Jersey but are in the country illegally will soon be able to pay in-state tuition at its public colleges and universities.

After weeks of feuding between Republican Gov. Chris Christie and Democrats who control the Legislature over the so-called “DREAM Act,” the two sides reached a breakthrough today and agreed to a compromise.

“I’m overwhelmed with joy,” said state Sen. Teresa Ruiz (D-Essex), the bill’s sponsor, as she fought back tears. Ruiz and state Senate leaders announced the deal at a press conference this morning, surrounded by students donning cap and gown outfits.

Christie today plans to sign legislation that would allow unauthorized immigrants who graduated high school in New Jersey after attending for at least three years to be eligible for the lower in-state rates at public higher educational institutions, including in-county rates at community colleges.