State Legislation Supporting Immigrant Access to Higher Education in New York

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


In New York, undocumented immigrants are eligible for in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities under the Dream Act. This legislation was signed into law by Governor Andrew Cuomo in 2019 and allows undocumented students who meet certain criteria to apply for state financial aid and scholarships. Additionally, New York’s Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) is also available to eligible undocumented students.

Furthermore, The New York State DREAM Act expands eligibility for the Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) to students who are out of status and attend a New York high school or have an equivalency diploma, then apply for attendance at a SUNY or CUNY college within five years of receiving their high school diploma. Students must also file an affidavit with the SUNY or CUNY campus stating that they will file an application to legalize their immigration status as soon as they can do so.

As of 2021, there are also efforts underway to create a pathway for undocumented students to receive state-funded financial aid through programs such as the Excelsior Scholarship and Enhanced Tuition Awards. These efforts are still ongoing and have not yet been passed into law.

It is important to note that while access to in-state tuition rates and some forms of state-funded financial aid is available in New York, undocumented students are still ineligible for federal student aid such as Pell Grants and federal loans due to their immigration status.

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


New York offers numerous programs and initiatives to support immigrant students in pursuing higher education opportunities. These include:

1. Tuition Assistance Program (TAP): TAP is a state-funded grant program that provides financial assistance to eligible New York residents pursuing undergraduate degrees at certified institutions in New York State.

2. Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP): HEOP provides academic and financial support services to low-income and educationally disadvantaged students, including immigrants, to help them succeed in college.

3. Educational Opportunity Program (EOP): EOP offers academic and financial support services for economically and academically disadvantaged students, including immigrants, enrolled at participating public colleges and universities in New York.

4. Dream Act: The Dream Act allows eligible undocumented students to apply for state financial aid for higher education, including TAP and the Excelsior Scholarship.

5. Multilingual Learner Programs: New York State mandates that districts with a certain number of English language learners offer specialized instruction in English as a second language (ESL) or bilingual education programs. These programs provide language support while ensuring that immigrant students have access to rigorous academic coursework.

6. CUNY Citizenship Now!: This program offers free immigration-legal services, ESL classes, and civics instruction to help immigrants integrate into society and pursue higher education opportunities at the City University of New York (CUNY).

7. Immigrant Student Success Office (ISSO): The ISSO was created by CUNY to support the success of immigrant students by providing resources such as legal consultations, counseling, workshops on cultural adjustment and academic success, and access to scholarships for undocumented students.

8 . College Access Programs: There are various programs in New York that aim to increase access to higher education for underrepresented groups, including immigrant students. Examples include CollegeBound Initiative (CBI) which prepares low-income students attending public schools for admission to selective colleges, Posse Foundation which recruits high-achieving students from diverse backgrounds to attend top colleges in teams (or “posses”), and College Now which provides high school students with the opportunity to earn college credits while still in high school.

Overall, New York has taken significant steps to provide support and resources for immigrant students in pursuing higher education opportunities, making it a welcoming and inclusive state for immigrants.

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


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

1. The Jose Peralta New York State DREAM Act: This legislation, passed in 2019, allows undocumented students who meet certain eligibility requirements to apply for state financial aid to help cover the costs of college.

2. The DREAM Fund Scholarship: This scholarship is open to undocumented students who have lived in New York for at least two years and are enrolled or planning to enroll in a higher education program.

3. The Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholarship: This scholarship is available to minority students, including undocumented students, who demonstrate leadership potential and financial need.

4. New York Immigrant Action Fund: This organization offers scholarships and emergency grants to undocumented students pursuing higher education in New York.

5. College Opportunity to Prepare For Employment (COPE): This program provides tuition assistance and support services for low-income or disadvantaged individuals, including undocumented students, looking to enter high-demand occupations in the state of New York.

6. Private scholarships: There are also many private organizations and foundations that offer scholarships specifically for undocumented students in New York. Some examples include the Golden Door Scholars Program and the Salvadoran American Leadership & Educational Fund (SALEF) Scholarships.

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. Some of these include:

1. In-state tuition for undocumented students: Several states have passed legislation allowing undocumented students to pay in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities, making higher education more affordable and accessible for these individuals.

2. Financial aid: Some states have also provided financial aid and scholarship opportunities specifically for immigrant students, regardless of their legal status.

3. Academic and career support programs: Many institutions offer academic and career support programs specifically tailored to the needs of immigrant students, such as English language instruction, cultural competency training, and career counseling.

4. Non-discrimination policies: States have enacted laws prohibiting discrimination against individuals based on their immigration status or national origin in all aspects of education, including admissions, financial aid, and campus services.

5. Outreach and recruitment initiatives: Some states have implemented outreach and recruitment initiatives targeting immigrant communities to encourage them to pursue higher education.

6. Inclusive curriculum: The state legislature has pushed for the incorporation of diverse perspectives and contributions by immigrants in academic curricula to promote understanding and appreciation of different cultures.

7. Support for DACA recipients: In response to changes at the federal level regarding Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), some states have passed laws to protect the rights of DACA recipients, allowing them to continue their education without fear of deportation.

Overall, these efforts demonstrate a commitment by the state legislature towards providing equal opportunities for all students, regardless of their immigration status or background.

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


New York has addressed residency requirements for immigrant students seeking admission into state universities and colleges in the following ways:

1. In-State Tuition Eligibility: New York’s higher education policy allows most undocumented students living in the state to qualify for in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities, regardless of their immigration status. This means that students who attended high school in New York or lived in the state for at least two years before enrolling in college can receive the same tuition rates as U.S. citizens and permanent residents.

2. DREAM Act: New York also passed the DREAM Act, which provides state financial aid to certain undocumented students who meet specific criteria, such as attending high school in New York for at least two years and applying for legal residency.

3. NY State residency requirement waiver: Undocumented students who do not meet the residency requirements due to their immigration status can request a waiver from individual colleges or universities through a “higher education opportunity program (HEOP)”. This program offers access and academic support services for economically disadvantaged New York residents who are academically talented but fall short on traditional entrance criteria.

4. Private Scholarships: There are also many private scholarships available specifically for immigrant students living in New York, including those offered by nonprofit organizations, local community groups, and private institutions.

5. Fair Admissions Practices Law: The Fair Admissions Practices Law prohibits discrimination based on immigration status or national origin by any college or university that receives public funding from the State of New York.

Overall, these policies aim to provide equal access to higher education opportunities for all students, regardless of their immigration status, while supporting diversity and inclusivity within the state’s higher education system.

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


Yes, New York has enacted legislation that provides in-state tuition rates for some undocumented students. The DREAM Act, enacted in 2019, allows certain undocumented students who meet certain criteria to pay in-state tuition rates at New York’s public colleges and universities. Additionally, the NYS Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) is available to undocumented students who meet eligibility requirements and are enrolled in an approved program of study.

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


Yes, New York has passed several laws prohibiting discrimination against immigrant students during the college admissions process. These include:

1. The DREAM Act (Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors Act), which allows certain undocumented immigrants to qualify for state financial aid and scholarships for higher education.

2. The New York Immigrant Students’ Access to Public Educat

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


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

1. The Excelsior Scholarship: This program provides full tuition coverage for eligible New York residents attending public colleges and universities in the state, including community colleges. Eligibility criteria includes income requirements and maintaining a minimum GPA.

2. EASE (Enhanced Aid Services for Everyone): This is a financial aid program available to undocumented students who are not eligible for federal financial aid, but have attended high school in New York for at least two years and received a high school diploma or GED.

3. Opportunity Programs: These programs provide additional academic, financial, and social support to students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, including immigrant students.

4. Dream.US Scholarships: In partnership with The City University of New York (CUNY), this scholarship provides full-tuition coverage for undocumented students enrolled in select CUNY campuses.

5. Scholarships for New Americans: This program provides merit-based scholarships to immigrants or children of immigrants who are graduating from New York City public schools.

6. Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP): This program provides academic and financial support to low-income and first-generation college students, including immigrant students.

7. Legal Support for Immigrant Students: The New York State Office of Attorney General has established a hotline where undocumented students can get information on their rights to attend college and receive financial aid.

8. Bilingual Education Programs: Many colleges and universities in New York offer bilingual education programs for English language learners, ensuring they receive the necessary language support to succeed academically.

Additionally, several community organizations and non-profits in New York also offer resources and support services specifically designed for immigrant students pursuing higher education.

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

Yes, immigrant students may face barriers in accessing higher education in New York due to factors such as English proficiency testing requirements, language barriers, lack of financial resources, and limited knowledge about the U.S. higher education system. These barriers can make it difficult for immigrant students to meet admissions requirements or navigate the application process effectively.

English proficiency testing is one major barrier that can hinder access to higher education for immigrant students. Many colleges and universities in New York require international students, including immigrants, to demonstrate English language proficiency through standardized tests such as the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or IELTS (International English Language Testing System). These tests can be costly and may require significant preparation time, which can be a challenge for immigrant students who may have limited financial resources or already face other academic or personal obligations.

Additionally, language barriers can also hinder access to higher education for immigrant students who are non-native English speakers. Immigrant students may struggle with understanding complex academic material or participating fully in class discussions if they are not fluent in English. This could ultimately affect their academic performance and make it more difficult for them to succeed in college.

Financial resources are another concern for many immigrant students in New York. The cost of tuition, textbooks, housing, and other living expenses can be daunting, especially for those who come from countries where the currency conversion rates are unfavorable. Without sufficient financial support or access to scholarships and grants specifically for immigrants, these students may struggle to afford higher education in New York.

Moreover, many immigrant students may not have enough knowledge about the U.S. higher education system and its requirements. Information about choosing the right college or understanding admission criteria may not be readily available to them, making it challenging to know where to start and how best to navigate the process.

Overall, these barriers can prevent immigrant students from accessing higher education opportunities and hinder their ability to achieve their educational goals in New York. It is important for institutions and policymakers to address these challenges and provide support and resources to help immigrant students overcome these barriers.

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


New York State supports DACA recipients pursuing a college degree in various ways:

1. In-State Tuition: New York State allows DACA recipients to qualify for in-state tuition at public colleges and universities, making higher education more affordable.

2. State Financial Aid: DACA recipients who meet certain requirements are eligible for the New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) and other state grants and scholarships, providing additional financial aid for college.

3. Excelsior Scholarship: DACA recipients may also be eligible for the Excelsior Scholarship, which covers the cost of tuition at SUNY and CUNY schools for students from families earning up to $125,000 annually.

4. Private Scholarships: Many private scholarships in New York do not require proof of citizenship or permanent residency, allowing DACA recipients to apply for and receive financial assistance specifically targeted towards their educational goals.

5. Career Pathways: New York offers the Career Pathways program to help low-income students, including DACA recipients, attend community college tuition-free while also receiving career counseling and job placement services.

6. Legal Support: The state has allocated funding for legal services to help ensure that DACA recipients have access to accurate information about their immigration status and are aware of any potential changes that may affect their eligibility for state aid.

7. Equal Access to Higher Education Policy: In 2002, New York implemented a policy enabling individuals without lawful immigration status to enroll in a public postsecondary institution if they have attended a New York high school or received an equivalent diploma.

8. Workplace Protection: Under the DREAM Act (Development, Relief and Education Act), employers cannot discriminate against employees on the basis of immigration status or require different employment eligibility verification documents based on race, religion or national origin.

9. Supportive Services: Many colleges and universities in New York offer support programs specifically aimed at helping undocumented students navigate the challenges of applying and attending college as well as provide resources for DACA recipients to succeed academically.

10. Advocacy and Awareness: The New York State DREAM Act was passed in 2019, dedicating $27 million to creating scholarships and other financial aid for undocumented students attending college. This legislation is aimed at raising awareness about the difficulties faced by undocumented students and providing support to help them achieve their educational goals.

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


1. Implementation of strict data privacy laws: The state government has implemented strict data privacy laws to protect the personal information of students, including immigrants, on college campuses. These laws dictate how student information is collected, used, and shared by colleges and other educational institutions.

2. Confidentiality agreements: Colleges are required to have confidentiality agreements in place with third-party service providers who handle student information. These agreements ensure that the third-party service providers do not disclose any personal information about students without their consent.

3. Limited access to student records: The state government has put in place measures to limit access to student records, including immigrant student information, only to authorized individuals such as school officials and designated staff members. This helps prevent unauthorized individuals from accessing or using this information for malicious purposes.

4. Student consent for data sharing: Colleges are required to obtain consent from students before sharing any of their personal information with third parties, unless it is for academic or administrative purposes.

5. Data encryption: All sensitive student data, including immigrant student information, is encrypted when stored or transmitted between systems. This helps prevent unauthorized access or interception of the data.

6. Cybersecurity measures: The state government provides funding and resources for colleges to implement cybersecurity measures that protect against data breaches and cyber attacks. This includes regular security audits and training for staff on best practices for handling sensitive data.

7. Student privacy policies: Colleges are required to have clear and transparent policies outlining how they collect, use, and share student information, including immigrant student information.

8. Compliance monitoring: The state government conducts regular compliance monitoring of colleges to ensure they are following all necessary protocols and guidelines for protecting student privacy.

9. Reporting requirements: If there is a suspected security breach or violation of privacy laws at a college campus involving immigrant student information, the state government requires the institution to report it immediately so appropriate actions can be taken.

10. Safe harbor provisions: Some states have enacted safe harbor laws that provide legal protections to colleges that comply with data privacy regulations. These provisions encourage colleges to implement stricter privacy measures to protect student information.

11. Student advocacy and support: The state government may also provide resources and support for immigrant students, including legal assistance, to help them understand their rights and ensure their personal information is protected 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 York?

Yes, there are several programs and legislation in place to provide support services for immigrant students in New York.

1. English as a New Language (ENL) Program: This program provides specialized instruction to help non-native English speakers develop their language skills and succeed academically.

2. Multilingual Learner/English Language Learner Program: This program provides targeted support and resources for students who speak languages other than English at home.

3. DREAM Act: This legislation allows undocumented students who meet certain criteria to apply for state financial aid and scholarships in New York.

4. Office of New Americans (ONA): The ONA offers a wide range of services to immigrants, including counseling, mentoring, job training, and legal assistance.

5. NY Project Hope: This program offers free mental health counseling for all New Yorkers affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, including immigrants and their families.

6. Mentoring USA: This organization pairs immigrant youth with volunteer mentors who can provide academic support, career guidance, and general mentoring.

7. International Rescue Committee (IRC): The IRC provides comprehensive services for newly arrived refugees in New York, including education and employment support.

8. Community-based organizations (CBOs): There are many CBOs in New York that offer support services specifically for immigrant students, such as Big Brothers Big Sisters NYC and Immigrant Justice Corps.

Overall, there are numerous resources available to support the academic, emotional, and social needs of immigrant students in New York City.

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


Yes, the New York State Education Department has partnerships with various community organizations and non-profits to provide resources and assistance for undocumented students pursuing higher education. Some of these organizations include:

1. The New York State Youth Leadership Council (NYSYLC), which is a non-profit organization run by and for undocumented youth. They offer resources and support for undocumented students, including a scholarship program.

2. The Dream.US, which is a national scholarship fund specifically for undocumented students. It partners with several colleges and universities in New York to provide scholarships.

3. The Mexican Coalition for the Empowerment of Youth (MEXC) offers resources and financial assistance to undocumented students in New York through their college access program.

4. The New York Immigration Coalition (NYIC) has a Higher Education Initiative that aims to increase access to higher education for immigrant communities in the state. They offer college counseling, workshops, and advocacy services.

5. Make the Road New York provides educational programs, legal services, and advocacy initiatives that support the rights of immigrants in New York City and Long Island.

6. The Graduate Center at the City University of New York (CUNY) hosts an Immigrant Studies Initiative that engages with immigrant communities through research projects, events, and resources.

7. CUNY also has its Citizenship Now! Program which provides free immigration services to help low-income immigrants navigate their path towards citizenship or legal status.

Overall, there are many organizations working in partnership with the state of New York to provide resources and support for undocumented students pursuing higher education.

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


Yes, there have been several recent proposed bills in New York aiming to improve access to higher education for immigrants, including:

1) The DREAM Act: This bill would allow undocumented students who meet certain criteria, such as attending a New York high school for at least two years and being on a path to obtaining legal status, to be eligible for state financial aid for college.

2) The Excelsior Scholarship Expansion: This bill would expand the eligibility of the Excelsior Scholarship program (which currently provides free tuition at SUNY and CUNY schools for families making up to $125,000 per year) to include undocumented immigrants and international students.

3) In-State Tuition for Undocumented Students: This bill would allow undocumented students who meet certain criteria, such as graduating from a New York high school and applying to a public university within five years of graduation, to pay in-state tuition rates instead of out-of-state rates.

4) Access to Opportunity Programs: This bill would require that all state-run opportunity programs (such as EOP and HEOP) provide services and resources to undocumented students.

These bills have not yet been passed into law but reflect ongoing efforts in New York to improve access to higher education for immigrant communities.

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


No, there are no restrictions on undocumented individuals attending public universities or colleges in New York. In 2019, New York became one of the few states to allow undocumented students to receive financial aid for higher education through the state’s DREAM Act. Additionally, public universities and colleges in New York do not require applicants to provide proof of citizenship or immigration status.

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


New York’s policy on tuition equity is more progressive compared to neighboring states with similar demographics. New York was one of the first states to pass legislation granting in-state tuition to undocumented students, in 2002. Other neighboring states, such as Pennsylvania and New Jersey, did not pass similar legislation until 2013 and 2014, respectively. Additionally, New York’s legislation covers not only in-state tuition rates, but also allows for financial aid and scholarships for undocumented students, which may not be available in other states. This makes New York’s policy more comprehensive and beneficial for undocumented students compared to neighboring states.

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. These include:

1. Expanding the Capacity of Higher Education Institutions: The state government has invested in expanding the capacity of existing higher education institutions, as well as building new ones. This helps to accommodate more students, including immigrants, and reduce competition for limited spots.

2. Increasing Financial Aid Opportunities: The state government has also increased financial aid opportunities for low-income and immigrant students, making it easier for them to afford higher education. This helps to level the playing field and ensure that all students have an equal opportunity to access higher education.

3. Implementing Admission Policies That Consider Diverse Backgrounds: Some universities and colleges have adopted admission policies that take into account a student’s diverse backgrounds, including their immigration status. This ensures that deserving students are not excluded based on their immigration status alone.

4. Collaborating with Community Colleges: The state government has worked closely with community colleges to create pathways for immigrant students to transfer to four-year institutions. This provides more opportunities for these students without overcrowding four-year universities.

5. Providing Support Services for Immigrant Students: Many universities have established support services specifically designed for immigrant students, such as counseling, mentorship programs, language assistance, and cultural sensitivity training. These services help immigrant students navigate the admissions process and succeed in higher education.

6. Promoting Diversity on Campuses: The state government has encouraged diversity on campuses by promoting cultural events and initiatives that celebrate different cultures and backgrounds. This creates a welcoming environment for immigrant students and helps them feel included in campus life.

7. Addressing Societal Attitudes Towards Immigration: Finally, the state government has also taken steps to address societal attitudes towards immigration by supporting campaigns and initiatives that promote diversity and inclusivity in higher education institutions.

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


The presence and effectiveness of a state-level support system for immigrant students varies from state to state. Some states have specific programs or resources in place to assist immigrant students with the admissions process and accessing financial aid, while others may not have a designated system in place.

In general, many states have organizations or agencies that provide support and guidance specifically for immigrant students. These organizations may offer assistance with college applications, English language proficiency exams, navigating the financial aid process, and other aspects of the admissions process. Some states also have scholarship programs specifically for immigrant students.

In addition, some colleges and universities within a state may have their own support systems in place for immigrant students. This could include dedicated staff or advisors who work with immigrant students to help them navigate the admissions process and access financial aid resources.

It is important for immigrant students to research what resources are available at both the state and local levels to help them with their college applications and financing their education. They can also reach out to college admissions offices for guidance on resources available specifically for immigrant students.

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


Yes, there have been notable successes and impacts on immigrant access to higher education since New York passed legislation supporting this issue. Some of the major accomplishments and changes include:

1) In-State Tuition: The most significant impact of the legislation was granting in-state tuition rates for undocumented students who meet certain requirements, making college more affordable and accessible for them.

2) Increased Enrollment: Since the passage of the legislation, there has been a significant increase in enrollment of undocumented students in New York’s public colleges and universities. According to a report by CUNY (City University of New York), enrollment of undocumented students increased by 15% at their senior colleges and 34% at community colleges after the in-state tuition policy went into effect.

3) Financial Aid: The legislation also opened up state financial aid opportunities for eligible undocumented students, providing additional support for them to pursue higher education.

4) Education Pipeline: In addition to the direct impact on immigrant access to higher education, the legislation has also helped create a stronger education pipeline for immigrant communities. By removing financial barriers, it encourages more immigrant high school students to consider pursuing higher education and achieve their academic goals.

5) Economic Impact: Providing opportunities for undocumented students to pursue higher education not only benefits individuals but also has an economic impact on local communities. A study by the RAND Corporation found that increasing educational attainment among undocumented immigrants would lead to an increase in tax revenue and GDP growth in New York State.

Overall, while there is still progress to be made, there have been notable successes and impacts on immigrant access to higher education since New York passed its legislation supporting this issue. This serves as a model for other states looking to address this important issue and improve opportunities for immigrant communities.

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


1. NYS Dream Act: In 2019, New York State passed the DREAM Act, which allows undocumented students to apply for state financial aid and scholarships.

2. Excelsior Scholarship Program: This program provides tuition-free education at all SUNY and CUNY colleges and universities for eligible students regardless of immigration status.

3. Office for New Americans: Created in 2013, this office supports immigrant communities by connecting them to resources and services such as educational programs.

4. Educational Opportunity Programs (EOP): EOP was established in 1967 to increase the number of disadvantaged students attending college. It provides academic support services, financial assistance, and other resources to help low-income students succeed in higher education.

5. Dual Language Learner Pilot Program: This program aims to increase access to higher education for English Language Learners by providing additional language support and resources.

6. CUNY Rising Alliance: This coalition of community organizations, faculty, staff and students advocates for increased funding and support for CUNY institutions, which serve a substantial number of immigrant students.

7. Resource Centers for Undocumented Students: Many colleges and universities in New York have dedicated resource centers that provide support and resources specifically for undocumented students.

8. Multilingual Education Initiative: This initiative provides support to schools serving a high proportion of English Language Learners through professional development programs and language-acquisition strategies.

9. Immigration Services Navigation Project (ISNP): ISNP provides support for immigrants navigating the complex processes involved in applying for higher education benefits such as financial aid or scholarships.

10. College Access Challenge Grant (CACG): The CACG helps low-income students gain access to higher education by providing funding for college readiness programs, mentoring programs, FAFSA completion workshops, etc.