The daily crossing between Tijuana and San Diego could change significantly for thousands of students who face long lines each day to get to school. Education authorities, in coordination with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), are analyzing the creation of an exclusive land lane for students, from elementary through university levels.

The proposal, still in the discussion phase, considers enabling a dedicated lane at international ports of entry, operating similarly to the SENTRI program, but focused exclusively on the transborder student community.

Fernando León García, president of CETYS University, explained that this is a broad effort and not an isolated initiative by a single institution. “It is a general proposal, the result of conversations among consulates, CBP, and local authorities. The intention is for it to benefit different educational levels not only university students, but also high school students and others,” he said.

According to León García, the program would require students to submit documentation, meet certain requirements, and undergo a review process similar to existing expedited crossing programs. The key difference would be the creation of a dedicated lane staffed by an officer specifically assigned to this type of user.

Spanish version: Analizan carril exclusivo para estudiantes en cruces Tijuana–San Diego

“If it can be established within the proposed timelines, even as early as January, the impact on crossing efficiency could be very significant for those who live in Tijuana and study on the other side,” León García said.

The project is intended solely for land crossings, where most student traffic is concentrated. Regarding cost, the university president noted that there would be a fee, but only an administrative one related to processing the application; no specific amount has been defined so far.