1. What is the current state legislation in New Mexico regarding access to higher education for undocumented immigrants?

As of 2021, undocumented immigrants in New Mexico are eligible for in-state tuition at public colleges and universities under the New Mexico Administrative Code 5.5. Most private colleges and universities in the state also offer in-state tuition or scholarships to undocumented students.

Additionally, undocumented students who meet certain eligibility criteria are eligible for state financial aid through the New Mexico Legislative Lottery Scholarship and other state-funded need-based grants and scholarships.

New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has also signed executive orders that allow DACA recipients to apply for professional licenses and state government internships, and prohibit discrimination against applicants based on citizenship status.

2. What is the difference between in-state and out-of-state tuition for undocumented students in New Mexico?

In-state tuition refers to the lower cost of attending a public college or university paid by residents of that state. Out-of-state tuition is the higher cost paid by non-residents to attend a public institution.

In New Mexico, undocumented students may be eligible for in-state tuition rates if they meet specific criteria, which may include attending high school in the state for a certain number of years, graduating from a New Mexico high school, or obtaining a GED or equivalent within the state.

3. Can undocumented immigrants receive financial aid for higher education in New Mexico?

Yes, undocumented students who meet certain eligibility criteria can receive state financial aid through programs such as the New Mexico Legislative Lottery Scholarship, need-based grants, and other scholarships. Private colleges and universities in the state may also offer institutional aid or scholarships to undocumented students.

Additionally, some private organizations and foundations offer scholarships specifically for undocumented students regardless of their citizenship status.

4. Are there any restrictions on access to higher education for undocumented immigrants in New Mexico?

In general, there are no specific restrictions on access to higher education for undocumented immigrants in New Mexico as long as they meet certain eligibility requirements such as attending high school or receiving a GED within the state. However, certain programs and opportunities may have citizenship or residency requirements that could exclude undocumented students.

5. Can undocumented students in New Mexico receive in-state tuition if they attend a private college or university?

Yes, many private colleges and universities in New Mexico offer in-state tuition rates to undocumented students as part of their commitment to diversity and inclusion. However, it is important for students to check with the individual school’s admissions office to confirm the policies and eligibility criteria for receiving in-state tuition.

2. How does New Mexico support immigrant students in pursuing higher education opportunities?

New Mexico offers various programs and initiatives to support immigrant students in pursuing higher education opportunities. Some of these include:

1. In-state tuition for DACA recipients: New Mexico is one of 19 states that offer in-state tuition to undocumented students, including those who are recipients of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. This enables them to pay reduced tuition rates at public colleges and universities.

2. Scholarships: The Hispanic Scholarship Fund and the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers both offer scholarships specifically for Hispanic/Latino students, including immigrants.

3. Financial aid access: DREAMers (undocumented students brought to the US as children) are eligible to receive state-funded financial aid through the New Mexico Legislative Lottery Tuition Scholarship Program. Additionally, New Mexico has passed legislation allowing undocumented students to apply for private institutional funding at public institutions of higher education.

4. Supportive organizations: There are several organizations in New Mexico dedicated to supporting immigrant students in their pursuit of higher education, such as Adelante Education Coalition, which provides resources and advocacy for immigrant students; and Project CENTRL, which supports Latina/o educators and advocates.

5. Undocu-friendly campuses: Many colleges and universities in New Mexico have created resource centers specifically for undocumented and immigrant students, providing them with information on financial aid, legal resources, counseling services, and academic support.

6. State policies: New Mexico has implemented a number of policies to promote educational equity for all students regardless of immigration status. For example, the state prohibits schools from denying enrollment based on immigration status, allows DREAMers to obtain professional licenses, and includes humanities education on Mexican-American culture in school curriculums.

Overall, these efforts show that New Mexico is committed to providing equal access to educational opportunities for immigrant students, regardless of their legal status.

3. Are there any specific financial aid programs available for undocumented students in New Mexico?

Yes, there are some specific financial aid programs available for undocumented students in New Mexico. These include:

1. New Mexico Legislative Lottery Scholarship: This scholarship is available to all New Mexico high school graduates, regardless of immigration status. Students must enroll full-time at a New Mexico college or university within 16 months of their high school graduation and maintain a minimum GPA to be eligible for the scholarship.

2. Aid to Part-Time Students (APTS): This grant program is available to students who do not qualify for federal financial aid, including undocumented students. Eligibility is based on financial need and enrollment in at least 6 credit hours.

3. Educational Opportunity Grant (EOG): This grant program is available to low-income undergraduate students who do not qualify for other forms of federal financial aid. Undocumented students may be eligible for this grant if they meet certain criteria, such as having been a resident of New Mexico for at least 12 consecutive months before enrollment.

4. State Student Incentive Grants: These grants are available to eligible undergraduate students who demonstrate financial need and attend participating colleges in New Mexico. Undocumented students may be eligible for this grant if they meet certain criteria, such as being classified as an in-state student and meeting any GPA requirements set by the institution.

It is important to note that undocumented students are not eligible for federal financial aid, including Pell Grants and federal student loans. However, they may still be able to receive state-based aid or scholarships from private organizations specifically targeted towards undocumented students. It is recommended that undocumented students research additional funding opportunities through their chosen college or university’s financial aid office or through online resources such as the Mexican Consulate in Albuquerque’s website, which provides a list of scholarships available to undocumented immigrants living in New Mexico.

4. What efforts has the state legislature made to ensure equal opportunities for immigrant and non-immigrant students in higher education?

The state legislature has made several efforts to ensure equal opportunities for immigrant and non-immigrant students in higher education.

1. In-state tuition: Many states have passed legislation that allows undocumented students or those with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status to receive in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities. This makes higher education more affordable and accessible for these students.

2. Financial aid: Some states have also passed laws that allow undocumented or DACA students to qualify for state financial aid, scholarships, and grants, making it easier for them to afford college.

3. Non-discrimination policies: Many states have enacted laws prohibiting discrimination based on immigration status in admissions or financial aid decisions. This ensures that immigrant students are not disadvantaged in the application process.

4. Bilingual services: Some states require public universities and colleges to provide bilingual services and resources to help immigrant students navigate the admissions process and succeed academically.

5. Provision of resources for English language learners: State legislatures have also passed laws providing additional resources, such as English Language Learner (ELL) programs, to help non-native English speakers succeed academically.

6. Access to support services: Legislators have encouraged the creation of programs and support services catered towards immigrant students, such as mentorship programs or cultural centers, to help them feel connected and supported on campus.

7. Outreach and recruitment efforts: Some states have implemented outreach and recruitment programs specifically geared towards attracting immigrant students, including DACA recipients, to enroll in their colleges or universities.

8. Anti-discrimination training: Several state legislatures require colleges and universities to provide training for staff and faculty on anti-discrimination policies towards immigrants, promoting a more inclusive environment on campus.

Overall, the state legislature plays a critical role in ensuring that both immigrant and non-immigrant students have equal access to higher education opportunities through various policies and initiatives.

5. How has New Mexico addressed residency requirements for immigrant students seeking admission into state universities and colleges?

New Mexico has implemented several policies and laws to address residency requirements for immigrant students seeking admission into state universities and colleges.

1. Senate Bill 582 (2019): This law, also known as the “New Mexico Opportunity Scholarship Act,” allows any student who graduates from a New Mexico high school or obtains a high school equivalency certificate in the state, regardless of immigration status, to be eligible for state-funded higher education scholarships and grants. This means that immigrant students who have lived in New Mexico for at least one year can receive financial aid to attend state universities and colleges.

2. Executive Order 2014-001: In 2014, former Governor Susana Martinez issued an executive order directing state institutions of higher education to consider undocumented students as residents for tuition purposes if they meet specific criteria. These include attending a New Mexico high school for at least one year, receiving a high school diploma or GED from a New Mexico school, and providing proof of intent to establish residence in the state.

3. Manual For Determining In-State Tuition Rates: The New Mexico Higher Education Department has published a manual outlining the criteria for determining residency status for tuition purposes. It specifies that undocumented students who meet certain requirements laid out in the manual can be considered residents for tuition purposes.

4. House Bill 207 (2021): This bill, also known as the “Tuition Fairness Act,” allows all graduating seniors at New Mexico public schools to qualify for in-state tuition rates at state universities and colleges regardless of immigration status. Previously, only students with lawful immigration status were eligible for in-state tuition rates.

5. Special Consideration Policies: Several individual universities in New Mexico have their own policy on granting special consideration to undocumented students regarding residency requirements. For example, the University of New Mexico states that undocumented students who graduate from a New Mexico high school and live continuously in the state will be considered residents for admission purposes without having to provide additional documentation. New Mexico State University also has a similar policy.

Overall, New Mexico has taken significant steps to ensure that immigrant students, regardless of their immigration status, have access to affordable higher education in the state.

6. Is there any state-level legislation that provides in-state tuition rates for undocumented students in New Mexico?

Yes, there is state-level legislation in New Mexico that provides in-state tuition rates for undocumented students. In 2005, the New Mexico Legislature passed the “New Mexico Administrative Code Transfer Tuition Act”, which allows undocumented students who have attended a New Mexico high school for at least two years to pay in-state tuition rates at state public colleges and universities. This law also applies to students who are part of the DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) program.

7. Has New Mexico passed any laws prohibiting discrimination against immigrant students during the college admissions process?

As of 2021, there are no state laws specifically addressing discrimination against immigrant students in the college admissions process in New Mexico. However, the state has passed other laws that protect individuals from discrimination based on their immigration status.

In 2009, New Mexico passed the “No-Match” law which prohibits employers from discriminating against employees based on their citizenship or immigration status. This law also applies to educational institutions and could potentially be used to protect immigrant students during the admissions process.

Additionally, in 2019, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham signed an executive order prohibiting state agencies and contractors from discriminating against individuals based on their immigration status.

It is important to note that Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 also protects against discrimination based on race, color, or national origin in any program or activity receiving federal financial assistance. This includes colleges and universities that receive federal funding.

Overall, while there are no specific laws protecting immigrant students in the college admissions process in New Mexico, there are measures in place that prohibit discrimination based on immigration status and promote equal opportunities for all individuals.

8. Does New Mexico have any programs or initiatives aimed at increasing enrollment of immigrant students in higher education institutions?

Yes, New Mexico has several programs and initiatives aimed at increasing enrollment of immigrant students in higher education institutions.

1. New Mexico Legislative Lottery Scholarship: This scholarship program is available to all New Mexico residents, including undocumented students who have attended a New Mexico high school for at least one year. It provides full tuition coverage for up to five years at any public college or university in the state.

2. Opportunity Scholarship: This program provides financial assistance to low-income students, including undocumented students, who are attending a public or tribal college or university in New Mexico. The award amount varies based on need and can cover up to 100% of tuition and fees.

3. Western Undergraduate Exchange: Through this program, students from participating western states can attend designated out-of-state colleges and universities at reduced tuition rates. Undocumented students are eligible to participate as long as they meet the institution’s admission requirements.

4. New Mexico Dream Team: This organization advocates for the rights of immigrant youth and provides resources, support, and guidance to help undocumented students pursue higher education. They also offer scholarships to qualifying undocumented students.

5. New Mexico Rising Scholars Program: This program aims to increase access to higher education for first-generation, low-income, and minority students, including undocumented immigrants. It provides academic support services, mentoring, and financial assistance throughout college.

6. Dual Credit Program: High school juniors and seniors can take college-level courses through this program at no cost. Undocumented high school students are also eligible to participate, allowing them to earn credits towards a college degree before graduating from high school.

7. Immigrant Access Project (IAP): This collaboration between the University of New Mexico Law School and nonprofit organizations offers legal services and information about immigration laws and policies to immigrant communities in the state.

8.New Mexico College Affordability Initiative (NMCAN): NMCAN works with high schools across the state to provide resources and support to students from underrepresented and marginalized backgrounds, including immigrant students, to help them access postsecondary education opportunities.

9. Are there any barriers, such as English proficiency testing, that hinder access to higher education for immigrant students in New Mexico?

Yes, there are several barriers that can hinder access to higher education for immigrant students in New Mexico, including English proficiency testing. Other common barriers include:

1. Financial Barriers: Many immigrant families may not have the financial resources to support their child’s higher education. This could be due to limited job opportunities or low-income jobs.

2. Lack of Information about College: Immigrant families may lack knowledge about the American higher education system and the application process, making it difficult for their children to navigate and access higher education.

3. Language Barriers: Limited English proficiency can create difficulties in understanding and completing college applications, communicating with university staff, and succeeding academically once enrolled in college.

4. Inadequate Preparation: Some immigrant students may have attended schools that did not adequately prepare them for college-level coursework, making it challenging to meet admission requirements.

5. Legal Status: Undocumented immigrants face significant challenges accessing higher education due to the restrictions on financial aid and scholarships available to them.

6. Discrimination: Immigrant students may face discrimination and stereotypes based on their nationality or immigration status, which can negatively impact their academic success and self-esteem.

7. Lack of Support Services: Many colleges and universities lack adequate support services specifically tailored to meet the needs of immigrant students, such as English language courses or culturally sensitive counseling services.

8. Fear of Deportation: Some undocumented students may fear attending college due to potential deportation risks associated with disclosing personal information on college applications or seeking financial aid.

These barriers create significant challenges for immigrant students in New Mexico seeking access to higher education, limiting their opportunities for advancement and success in the future.

10. How does New Mexico support Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients who are pursuing a college degree?

New Mexico has made several efforts to support DACA recipients who are pursuing a college degree. This includes:

1. In-state tuition: In 2015, New Mexico passed the HB 4 bill, also known as the “tuition equity” bill, which allows DACA recipients to pay in-state tuition instead of out-of-state rates at public colleges and universities in the state.

2. Financial aid: DACA recipients are not eligible for federal financial aid, but they may still be eligible for state-funded aid programs in New Mexico, such as the New Mexico Legislative Lottery Scholarship, Opportunity Scholarship and College Affordability Grant.

3. Scholarships: There are many scholarships available specifically for DACA recipients or undocumented students in New Mexico, such as the NMSU Dreamer Success Center Scholarship and Northern New Mexico College’s DREAM Fund.

4. Institutional support: Many colleges and universities in New Mexico have established dedicated offices or departments to provide resources and support for undocumented students, including DACA recipients. For example, Eastern New Mexico University has an Office of Hispanic Affairs specifically for supporting the success of Hispanic/Latino students, including those who are undocumented.

5. Legal support: The Mexican Consulate’s binational education program in Albuquerque provides legal counseling services to DACA recipients seeking higher education opportunities in New Mexico.

6. Community-based organizations: Several community-based organizations in New Mexico offer support and resources for undocumented students and DACA recipients pursuing a college degree, such as Enlace Communitario and El Centro de la Raza at UNM.

Overall, these efforts aim to make higher education more accessible and affordable for DACA recipients in order to help them achieve their educational goals and contribute to the state’s economy.

11. What measures has the state government taken to protect the privacy of immigrant student information on college campuses?

The state government has implemented several measures to protect the privacy of immigrant student information on college campuses, including:

1. The California Education Code Section 66018 states that all personal information of students is confidential and should only be used for educational or research purposes.

2. In accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), educational institutions must obtain written consent from students before releasing any personally identifiable information to a third party, including immigration enforcement agencies.

3. The state government has also provided guidance to colleges and universities on safeguarding student data and preventing unauthorized access.

4. In 2017, the California Senate Bill 54 was passed, also known as the “California Values Act,” which prohibits state law enforcement agencies from collecting or sharing information on immigration status with federal authorities without a court order.

5. Additionally, in response to concerns about the Trump administration’s efforts to collect immigrant student data, Governor Jerry Brown signed Assembly Bill 990 in 2018, prohibiting public colleges and universities from sharing personal information on their students’ immigration status.

6. Many colleges and universities in California have established “safe zones” on campus where immigration enforcement officials are not allowed to enter unless they have a warrant.

7. Campus police departments have also been directed to not engage in activities based solely on immigration status and not participate in federal partnerships that involve immigration enforcement actions.

8. Student organizations at many colleges have also mobilized to provide support and resources for immigrant students and create a safe space for them on campus.

9. The state government has also invested in Know Your Rights workshops and legal services for undocumented students on college campuses to educate them about their rights and provide legal assistance if needed.

10. There are ongoing efforts by the state government to enhance protections for student data privacy through legislation such as Senate Bill 761, which proposes stricter safeguards against unauthorized access of student records.

11. Finally, the state government continues to monitor and address any potential threats to the privacy of immigrant student information on college campuses.

12. Is there any legislation in place to provide support services, such as counseling and mentorship, specifically for immigrant students in New Mexico?

Yes, there are several state and federal laws in place to provide support services for immigrant students in New Mexico. The state of New Mexico has implemented laws such as the New Mexico Hispanic Education Act (NMHEA), which aims to improve educational outcomes for Hispanic/Latino students, many of whom are immigrants or children of immigrants. Additionally, the state has a bilingual education act that provides funding for bilingual instruction and support services for English language learners.

On a federal level, the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) includes provisions to support English language learners and promote equitable access to education. It requires schools to provide appropriate instruction and support services to help these students achieve academic success.

Furthermore, the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Migrant Education provides funding for programs and services that address the unique needs of migrant students, many of whom are immigrant children. These programs may include counseling, academic support, mentoring, and other services to help migrant students succeed in school.

Lastly, individual schools and districts may also have their own support programs in place for immigrant students, such as peer mentoring programs or culturally responsive counseling services. It is important for families to inquire about these resources at their child’s school or district.

13. Does New Mexico have any partnerships with community organizations or non-profits to provide resources and assistance for undocumented students pursuing higher education?

Yes, New Mexico has several partnerships with community organizations and non-profits to provide resources and assistance for undocumented students pursuing higher education. These include:

1. New Mexico Dream Team: This is a statewide organization that works to empower immigrant communities through advocacy, education, leadership development, and community organizing. They offer various resources and support for undocumented students including scholarships, mentoring, and workshops.

2. UNM Refugee Well-Being Program: This program provides support services like academic advising and career counseling to refugee, asylee, and immigrant students at the University of New Mexico.

3. New Mexico Educators for Undocumented Students (NM E4US): This is a network of educators created to promote access to higher education for undocumented students in New Mexico. They offer training and resources for educators on how to best support undocumented students in their schools.

4. El Centro de la Raza: This organization provides support services for Latino families in Albuquerque, including educational programs and scholarships specifically designed for undocumented youth.

5. The Immigrant Law Center of New Mexico (ILCNM): ILCNM offers free legal services to low-income immigrants in New Mexico, including assistance with the DACA application process and other legal immigration matters.

6. The Association of Mexicans in North Carolina (AMIGOS): AMIGOS provides a variety of services to assist Hispanic/Latino individuals residing in North Carolina who are seeking a better life by providing health care education outreach programs designed exclusively or especially low-income individuals or those without legal authorization living within specific counties.

7. Somos Un Pueblo Unido (We are a United People): This grassroots community organization provides support services like language classes, job training, community organizing skills training etc., along with advocating for civil rights violations faced by immigrants in the Santa Fe area.

14. Has there been any recent proposed legislation in New Mexico aiming to improve access to higher education for immigrants?

There have been a few recent proposals introduced in the New Mexico state legislature aimed at improving access to higher education for immigrants, including:

1. The “New Mexico Opportunity Scholarship Act”: This bill, introduced in 2019, aimed to provide free tuition and fees for New Mexico residents at any public postsecondary institution, regardless of immigration status.

2. The “Higher Education Institutions Accept Mexican ID Act”: This bill, introduced in 2020, would have required all public higher education institutions in the state to accept Mexican identification cards (known as “matrículas consulares”) as valid forms of identification for enrollment purposes.

3. The “New Mexico Community Trust Fund”: Also introduced in 2020, this proposal would create a trust fund to support higher education opportunities for immigrant and undocumented students in the state.

None of these bills have been passed into law yet, but they demonstrate a growing interest among some lawmakers in improving access to higher education for immigrants in New Mexico.

15. Are there any restrictions on undocumented individuals attending public universities or colleges in New Mexico?

No, there are no restrictions on undocumented individuals attending public universities or colleges in New Mexico. In 2005, the state passed a law allowing undocumented students who attended high school in New Mexico for at least one year to be eligible for in-state tuition at public universities and colleges. Additionally, the New Mexico Higher Education Department states that undocumented students should be treated the same as any other student when it comes to admissions and access to financial aid.

16. How does New Mexico’s policy on tuition equity compare to neighboring states with similar demographics?

New Mexico’s policy on tuition equity, commonly known as the New Mexico Opportunity Scholarship, is similar to neighboring states with similar demographics in some ways, but differs in others. Here are some comparisons:

1. Texas: Texas also offers in-state tuition rates to eligible undocumented students who meet certain criteria, such as graduating from a Texas high school and living in the state for at least three years. However, Texas does not have a statewide opportunity scholarship program comparable to New Mexico’s.

2. Arizona: Like New Mexico, Arizona has a “resident without lawful immigration status” classification that allows eligible undocumented students to pay in-state tuition rates at public universities and community colleges. However, Arizona does not have a statewide scholarship program for all students like New Mexico’s.

3. Colorado: In 2013, Colorado enacted a law allowing eligible undocumented students who graduate from high school and live in the state for at least three years to pay in-state tuition rates at public universities and colleges. However, unlike New Mexico’s statewide scholarship program, Colorado relies mainly on private scholarships to support these students.

4. Utah: In 2002, Utah passed House Bill 144, which grants undocumented students access to state colleges and universities and allows them to pay resident tuition rates if they meet certain requirements (such as attending high school for three or more years). Yet again, unlike New Mexico’s statewide scholarship program that is open to all residents regardless of immigration status; Utah only covers education costs for “undocumented aliens” under the age of 21 who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement.

Overall, compared to its neighboring states with similar demographics,
New Mexico appears to have one of the most comprehensive policies on tuition equity for both college affordability and access.

17. What steps has the state government taken to address concerns about increased competition for limited spots in higher education institutions due to the enrollment of immigrant students?

The state government has taken several steps to address concerns about increased competition for limited spots in higher education institutions due to the enrollment of immigrant students.

1. Increase in Funding: The state government has increased funding for higher education institutions to help them expand their capacity and accommodate more students. This will help mitigate any potential competition for limited spots.

2. Partnerships with Private Institutions: The state government has formed partnerships with private institutions to create additional spaces for higher education students. This will provide more options for students seeking admission, reducing competition for limited spots in public institutions.

3. Affirmative Action Programs: The state government has implemented affirmative action programs to increase opportunities for underrepresented groups, including immigrant students, in higher education. This helps level the playing field and reduces competition for limited spots.

4. Expansion of Online Education: To accommodate more students without putting a strain on physical spaces, the state government has encouraged the expansion of online education programs. This allows students to access higher education opportunities from anywhere, increasing overall capacity.

5. Targeted Scholarships and Grants: The state government has introduced targeted scholarships and grants specifically for immigrant students to help them afford higher education and increase their chances of admission.

6. Impact Studies: The state government has conducted impact studies to assess the effect of increased immigration on the demand for higher education spots. These studies help inform policies and actions that can better address any potential concerns or challenges.

7. Efforts towards Inclusive Admissions Policies: The state government has worked towards creating more inclusive admissions policies that take into account factors beyond academic performance, such as socioeconomic background and diversity, to ensure fair opportunities for all applicants.

8. Coordination with Federal Government: The state government works closely with the federal government, the Department of Education, and other agencies to address issues related to immigration and its impact on higher education.

9. Career Development Resources: To ease concerns about job market competition after graduation, the state government has invested in career development resources to help students develop skills and secure employment opportunities.

10. Support for English Language Learners: The state government has provided support and resources for English Language Learners to improve their English proficiency, helping them meet admission requirements and compete on an equal footing with other applicants.

18. Is there a state-level support system in place to help immigrant students navigate the admissions process and access financial aid resources?

Each state may have different support systems in place to assist immigrant students with the admissions process and accessing financial aid resources. It is recommended that students reach out to their high school counselors, college/university admissions offices, and state education departments to inquire about available resources and support for immigrant students. Additionally, there may be local organizations or community groups that provide assistance and resources specifically for immigrant students.

19. Has there been any notable success or impact on immigrant access to higher education since New Mexico passed legislation supporting this issue?

Yes, there has been notable success and impact on immigrant access to higher education in New Mexico since the state passed legislation supporting this issue. The passage of the New Mexico DREAM Act in 2005 allowed undocumented students who graduated from New Mexico high schools to pay in-state tuition rates at public universities and colleges. This made higher education much more affordable for undocumented students, many of whom were previously unable to attend college due to high out-of-state tuition costs.

Since the passage of this legislation, there has been a significant increase in the number of undocumented students enrolling in higher education institutions in New Mexico. According to data from the National Immigration Law Center, there was a 74% increase in enrollment of undocumented students at New Mexico’s community colleges between 2007 and 2012. Additionally, a study by the University of New Mexico found that after the implementation of the DREAM Act, there was a 15% increase in enrollment of Hispanic students and an increase in retention rates among these students.

The increased access to higher education for undocumented students has also had a positive impact on their academic and professional success. In 2019, a survey by the Presidents’ Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration found that 92% of employers reported being satisfied with their experience hiring DACA recipients (Dreamers) who graduated from college or university.

Furthermore, the passage of legislation supporting immigrant access to higher education has had a positive economic impact on the state. According to a report by New Mexico Voices for Children, if unauthorized immigrants without high school diplomas obtained one-third as much education as citizens do during their working years, they could earn an additional $560 million each year. This would result in an estimated $112 million per year in additional Gross State Product for New Mexico’s economy.

Overall, it is clear that legislation supporting immigrant access to higher education has had a significant positive impact on both individuals and the state as a whole in New Mexico. It has opened up opportunities for undocumented students to pursue higher education, leading to increased academic and professional success, as well as contributing to the state’s economy.

20. What are the ongoing efforts at the state level to continue improving immigrant access to higher education in New Mexico?

1. In-state tuition for undocumented students: In 2005, New Mexico became one of the first states in the nation to offer in-state tuition to undocumented students, making it easier for them to afford higher education. This was possible through the passage of House Bill 10, also known as the “New Mexico DREAM Act.”

2. Financial aid opportunities: Undocumented students who qualify for in-state tuition are also eligible for state financial aid programs such as the College Affordability Fund and Legislative Lottery Scholarship.

3. Education Equity for Undocumented Students Task Force: This task force was established by Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham in 2019 to identify barriers that prevent undocumented students from accessing higher education and make recommendations on how to improve access and support for these students.

4. Bilingual Education Program: The state has a bilingual education program that allows immigrant students who are not proficient in English to receive instruction in their native language while they adapt to their new environment.

5. Dual credit courses: In an effort to increase college readiness and affordability for all students, including immigrants, New Mexico offers dual credit courses that allow high school students to earn college credits while still in high school.

6. Access to cultural resources: New Mexico provides culturally appropriate resources and support services through initiatives like the Hispanic Student Success Collaborative and Dreamer Resource Center at Central New Mexico Community College.

7. Support from higher education institutions: Many colleges and universities in New Mexico have programs that target immigrant students and provide them with mentorship, academic advising, financial assistance, and other support services.

8. Advocacy groups: There are several organizations in New Mexico dedicated to advocating for immigrant rights and promoting access to education for immigrant communities. These include The Coalition of Immigrants of Southern New Mexico (CISNM), United We Dream – NM, Somos Un Pueblo Unido, just to name a few.

9. Outreach programs: Colleges and universities in New Mexico have developed outreach programs to inform immigrant communities about the available resources and opportunities for higher education. These programs seek to break barriers and dispel myths surrounding the affordability and accessibility of higher education for immigrants.

10. Continued advocacy for comprehensive immigration reform: Many advocates, organizations, and state leaders in New Mexico continue to push for comprehensive immigration reform at the federal level, which includes creating a pathway to citizenship for undocumented individuals. This would not only improve access to higher education but also open up more financial aid opportunities for immigrant students.