1. What are the criteria for determining eligibility for state-funded scholarships for immigrant students in New York?

The criteria for determining eligibility for state-funded scholarships for immigrant students in New York vary depending on the specific scholarship program. However, some common criteria may include:

1. Residency: Immigrant students must be legal residents of the state of New York in order to be eligible for most state-funded scholarships.

2. Financial need: Many state-funded scholarships prioritize students from low-income families or those with demonstrated financial need.

3. Academic achievement: Some scholarships may have minimum GPA requirements or require applicants to have a certain level of academic achievement.

4. High school graduation: Most scholarships require applicants to have graduated from high school or obtained a GED.

5. Citizenship status: Many scholarship programs explicitly state that undocumented students, Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients, and other non-citizens are eligible to apply.

6. Program-specific requirements: Some scholarships may have additional requirements, such as specific fields of study, participation in a certain extracurricular activity, or community service involvement.

It is important to carefully review the eligibility criteria for each individual scholarship program before applying.

2. How does New York ensure that immigrant students have equal access to scholarships as non-immigrant students?

The New York state government has implemented several measures to ensure that immigrant students have equal access to scholarships as non-immigrant students:

1. State and Federal Financial Aid: Immigrant students in New York are eligible for state and federal financial aid, including grants, loans, and work-study programs. These forms of aid do not discriminate based on immigration status.

2. Tuition Assistance Program (TAP): TAP is a grant program that provides financial assistance to qualifying New York residents attending college within the state. Immigrant students who meet the eligibility requirements can apply for TAP, regardless of their immigration status.

3. The Dream Act: In 2019, New York passed the Jose Peralta New York State DREAM Act which allows undocumented students to apply for statewide financial aid programs such as TAP and other grants and scholarships. This ensures that immigrant students have access to the same financial aid opportunities as their non-immigrant peers.

4. In-State Tuition: New York’s higher education institutions offer in-state tuition rates to undocumented students who have attended high school in the state for at least two years and graduated or obtained an equivalency diploma.

5. Private Scholarships: The state maintains a directory of private scholarships available to immigrant students, regardless of their immigration status.

6. Language Accessibility: New York provides language access services for non-English proficient families with college-bound children through its Office of Bilingual Education and World Languages.

7. Anti-Discrimination Policies: Educational institutions in New York are prohibited from discriminating against any student based on immigration status under the law. This ensures that immigrant students have an equal opportunity to apply for and receive scholarships.

8. Support Services: Several organizations in New York provide support services specifically tailored to assist immigrant students with their scholarship applications and navigating the financial aid process.

9. Outreach Programs: The state runs outreach programs targeting underserved communities, including immigrant populations, to inform them about scholarship opportunities and assist with the application process.

Overall, New York has taken proactive measures to ensure that immigrant students have equal access to scholarships as non-immigrant students, providing a level playing field for all students regardless of immigration status.

3. What types of financial aid or scholarships are available specifically for undocumented immigrants in New York?

A number of financial aid and scholarship programs are available specifically for undocumented immigrants in New York. These include:

1. The New York State Dream Act: This act allows undocumented students who meet certain qualifications to apply for state financial aid, such as the Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) and the Enhanced Tuition Awards.

2. The NYS DREAM Fund Scholarship: This scholarship, funded by private donations, provides financial assistance to eligible undocumented students studying at public or private institutions in New York State.

3. The Lehman College Campaign for Students without Legal Status: This program provides scholarships to undocumented students at Lehman College who are not eligible for federal or state financial aid.

4. The Jaime Lucero Mexican Studies Institute Scholarship: This scholarship supports Dreamers of Mexican origin who are looking to pursue higher education in New York City.

5. The Ascend Educational Fund Scholarship: This non-profit organization offers scholarships to immigrant students living in New York City, including those with DACA status or no legal status.

6. The Wingspan Arts Scholarships: These scholarships provide access to arts education programs for immigrant youth in New York City, including undocumented students and those with DACA status.

7. Several colleges and universities in New York, such as Columbia University, Hunter College, Cornell University, and Fordham University offer their own institutional scholarships and grants specifically for undocumented students.

It is important to note that eligibility requirements and application processes may vary by program. It is recommended that interested individuals research each program thoroughly before applying.

4. Are there any restrictions on scholarship eligibility based on immigration status in New York?

In New York, there are no restrictions on scholarship eligibility based on immigration status. As long as a student meets the specific eligibility requirements of a particular scholarship, they are eligible to apply and receive funding regardless of their immigration status. However, some scholarships may require proof of legal residency or citizenship for non-citizens. In those cases, undocumented students may not be eligible for the scholarship. It is important for students to carefully review the eligibility requirements of each scholarship before applying. Additionally, undocumented students in New York may also be eligible for state financial aid programs such as the Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) and the Excelsior Scholarship if they meet certain criteria.

5. Does New York offer any incentives or programs to attract and retain immigrant students through scholarship opportunities?

Yes, New York offers several programs and scholarships to attract and retain immigrant students, including:

1. The Excelsior Scholarship: This program provides tuition-free education at all SUNY and CUNY colleges for families with an annual income of up to $125,000. Immigrant students who meet the residency requirements are eligible to apply.

2. The Dream.US Opportunity Scholarship: This is a scholarship specifically designed for undocumented immigrant students who have DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) or TPS (Temporary Protected Status) status. It covers up to 100% of college tuition costs at partner colleges in New York.

3. The Horatio Alger National Scholarships: This program awards scholarships of up to $25,000 to low-income, high-achieving immigrants or children of immigrants pursuing higher education in New York.

4. The NYS STEM Incentive Program: This program provides full-tuition scholarships to the top 10% of high school graduates who are pursuing a STEM degree at a public or private university in New York.

5. NYC College Promise: This program offers free tuition for eligible students attending any CUNY community college. It is open to all residents of NYC, regardless of immigration status.

6. State University of New York International Student Program: This program offers partial tuition waivers and academic support services for international students studying at select SUNY campuses in fields such as engineering, computer science, and business.

In addition, there are other grants and scholarships offered by individual colleges and universities that may be available to immigrant students. It is recommended that prospective students research the specific financial aid opportunities offered by their chosen institution.

6. How does New York handle awarding scholarships to children of undocumented immigrant parents who do not have legal status?

In New York, children of undocumented immigrant parents are eligible for state scholarships if they meet certain criteria set by the state. These criteria include attending a high school in New York State for at least two years, graduating from a high school in New York State, and filing an affidavit with the college or university stating their intent to legalize their immigration status as soon as they are eligible to do so.

Additionally, New York offers several scholarship programs specifically for undocumented students, such as the Dream Act and the Excelsior Scholarship. These programs provide financial aid to eligible students regardless of their immigration status.

In order to apply for these scholarships, undocumented students must submit a state-specific financial aid application, typically called the Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) Application. They may also be required to provide proof of meeting the eligibility criteria, such as copies of transcripts or affidavits.

It is important for undocumented students and their families to research and understand the specific requirements and deadlines for these scholarships in order to receive financial aid for their education.

7. Are there any state policies in place to support immigrant students who may face barriers in accessing scholarship opportunities in New York?

Yes, there are several state policies in place to support immigrant students who may face barriers in accessing scholarship opportunities in New York:

1. DREAM Act: In 2019, New York implemented the DREAM Act, which allows undocumented students to apply for state financial aid, including scholarships and grants.

2. Excelsior Scholarship: This scholarship program covers tuition costs for eligible students attending public colleges and universities in New York State.

3. Tuition Assistance Program (TAP): TAP provides financial assistance to eligible students attending approved colleges and universities in New York, including undocumented students who qualify under the DREAM Act.

4. Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP): HEOP provides financial aid and academic support services to low-income and disadvantaged students, including immigrants, who are enrolled in participating private institutions of higher education in New York.

5. Educational Opportunity Program (EOP): EOP provides academic and financial support services to lower-income and academically disadvantaged residents of New York State who attend participating public institutions of higher education.

6. Scholarships for Academic Excellence: This program awards scholarships to high-achieving high school graduates from New York City who demonstrate strong academic potential but face economic barriers.

7. Refugee Youth Summer Enrichment (RYSE) Program: RYSE provides immigrant youth with summer learning opportunities and supports their transition into the U.S. education system through mentorship, language immersion programs, and college readiness activities.

8. College Access Challenge Grant Program (CACGP): CACGP provides funding for programs that help underserved populations, including immigrant students, access higher education by providing outreach, counseling, mentoring, and other support services.

9. Office of New Americans: The Office of New Americans offers a range of resources and services to help immigrants succeed in their educational pursuits, including guidance on scholarships and financial aid opportunities.

10. State-funded English Language Learner (ELL) programs: These programs offer English as a second language (ESL) instruction to help immigrant students develop their English language proficiency and succeed in college and beyond.

11. New York State Youth Leadership Council: This organization provides resources, advocacy, and support for undocumented youth in New York, including information on scholarship opportunities and application assistance.

Overall, New York State has implemented various initiatives to support immigrant students’ access to scholarships and other forms of financial aid. Additionally, many colleges and universities in New York have their own scholarship programs specifically for immigrant students. It is recommended that immigrant students contact their school’s financial aid office or organizations like the ones listed above to learn about additional scholarship opportunities and support services available to them.

8. What is the process for applying for state-funded scholarships as an immigrant student in New York?

The process for applying for state-funded scholarships as an immigrant student in New York may vary depending on the specific scholarship program and your immigration status. Generally, the following are steps you can take to apply for state-funded scholarships as an immigrant student in New York:

1. Determine your eligibility: The first step to applying for any scholarship is to determine if you meet the eligibility requirements. This may include factors such as your immigration status, residency in New York, academic achievements, financial need, and other criteria set by the scholarship program.

2. Research available scholarships: There are many different state-funded scholarship programs available in New York, each with its own eligibility requirements and application processes. Take some time to research different scholarships and determine which ones you are eligible for.

3. Submit the FAFSA: Most scholarship programs will require applicants to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This application is used to determine your financial need and may be required even if you are not eligible for federal aid.

4. Gather required documents: Each scholarship program will have its own set of required documents that you will need to submit along with your application. These may include proof of residency, immigration status, academic records, letters of recommendation, and more.

5. Complete the application: Once you have determined your eligibility and gathered all necessary documents, you can begin filling out the application for the scholarship program(s) you wish to apply for.

6. Be aware of deadlines: Make sure to pay attention to any deadlines associated with your chosen scholarship programs. Missing a deadline could disqualify you from receiving funds.

7. Follow up: After submitting your applications, make sure to follow up with the scholarship programs if needed. You may also want to check with your school’s financial aid office or guidance counselor for additional resources or assistance.

8. Stay informed about future opportunities: Even if you do not receive a scholarship this time around, keep track of potential opportunities for funding in the future. New scholarships may become available every year, and you may become eligible for programs you were not previously qualified for.

9. Are there any specific requirements or qualifications for immigrant students seeking scholarships at state universities in New York?

There are generally no specific requirements or qualifications for scholarships at state universities in New York specifically for immigrant students. However, most scholarship programs have eligibility criteria based on academic achievement, financial need, leadership skills, and community involvement.

Some scholarships may also have restrictions based on a student’s residency status or visa type. In order to be eligible for state-funded financial aid and scholarships, students must typically be permanent residents, legal non-citizens with a valid visa or refugees/asylees. Undocumented immigrants may not be eligible for state-funded financial aid and scholarships.

Additionally, some scholarship programs may require applicants to have specific language proficiency levels or demonstrate cultural competency in order to promote diversity and inclusion within the university community. It is important for immigrant students to carefully review the eligibility requirements of each scholarship they are interested in applying for.

10. How does the state government determine the amount of funding allocated towards scholarships for immigrant students in New York?

The amount of funding allocated towards scholarships for immigrant students in New York is determined by several factors, including the budget set by the state government for education, the number of eligible immigrant students in need of financial aid, and any specific legislation or policies related to immigrant education that may affect funding. The state government may also consider input and recommendations from relevant agencies and organizations to determine the appropriate amount of funding for scholarships. Ultimately, the final decision on the amount of funding for scholarships for immigrant students rests with the state legislators who approve the budget.

11. Is there a maximum limit on the number of scholarships available for immigrant students in New York each year?

There is no specific maximum limit on the number of scholarships available for immigrant students in New York each year. However, the availability and amount of scholarships may vary depending on funding and eligibility criteria set by individual scholarship programs, organizations, or institutions.

12. Are there any exemptions or exceptions to scholarship eligibility requirements specifically for refugee and asylum-seeking students in New York?

It is unclear if there are specific exemptions or exceptions to scholarship eligibility requirements for refugee and asylum-seeking students in New York. However, some scholarships may have specific criteria that are tailored towards supporting these populations, such as the “New York State DREAM Act,” which provides financial aid opportunities to undocumented immigrants including refugees and asylum seekers. Additionally, many institutions and organizations offer scholarships specifically for refugee and asylum-seeking students, but eligibility requirements may vary. It is recommended to research and inquire with individual scholarship providers for more information on any exemptions or exceptions they may have.

13. Does New York have partnerships with private institutions or organizations to provide additional scholarship opportunities specifically for immigrant students?

Yes, New York has partnerships with several private institutions and organizations to provide additional scholarship opportunities specifically for immigrant students. Some examples include:

1. The New York State Youth Leadership Council offers an annual Dream Fellowship in partnership with the Dream.US, providing scholarships and leadership training to undocumented students in New York State.

2. The New York Immigration Coalition sponsors a scholarship program for immigrant youth in partnership with CUNY Citizenship Now!, offering assistance with college applications and access to financial aid.

3. The Refugee Scholarship Program, run by the Arab American Association of New York, provides scholarships and support services for refugee students pursuing higher education in New York City.

4. The Jewish Vocational Service of MetroWest offers a scholarship program for refugee and asylee students living in New York City, providing financial and academic support for college or vocational training.

5. The Immigrant Action Fund awards scholarships to young immigrants who have overcome significant challenges to pursue their education, in partnership with various community-based organizations across New York State.

Overall, there are many private institutions and organizations partnering with the state of New York to provide scholarship opportunities specifically for immigrant students.

14. What measures has New York taken to promote awareness of available scholarship options among its immigrant population?

New York has implemented various measures to promote awareness of available scholarship options among its immigrant population. These include:

1. Information campaigns: The state government, along with various non-profit organizations, regularly conducts information campaigns to spread awareness about scholarships for immigrants. These campaigns use different platforms such as social media, radio, TV, and community events to reach out to the immigrant community.

2. Multilingual resources: All relevant information about available scholarships is made available in multiple languages, including Spanish, Chinese, and Korean. This makes it easier for immigrants who may not be proficient in English to understand their options.

3. Collaboration with community organizations: The state government works closely with community organizations that serve the immigrant population to promote scholarship opportunities. These organizations act as a bridge between the government and the immigrant communities and can help disseminate information effectively.

4. Immigrant Resource Centers: New York has set up Immigrant Resource Centers across the state, which provide support services including counseling and assistance in finding educational opportunities and financial aid options for immigrants.

5. Specialized counselors: In some cases, specialized counselors are provided at educational institutions or through community organizations specifically trained to assist immigrants in finding suitable scholarships.

6. Online databases: The New York State Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC) maintains an online database of all available scholarship programs within the state, making it easier for students to find suitable options.

7. Outreach events: HESC also organizes outreach events targeting high schools and colleges where they educate students about different scholarships and how to apply for them.

8. Collaboration with colleges and universities: The state government works with colleges and universities within New York to identify financial aid opportunities catering specifically to immigrant students.

9. Awareness workshops: Workshops are occasionally organized at libraries, community centers, and other public spaces where attendees can learn more about scholarship opportunities available specifically for immigrants.

10. Financial aid nights for families: To involve families in the decision-making process, the state government also conducts financial aid nights in various languages to educate families about available scholarship options and how to apply for them.

11. Inclusion in citizenship classes: Programs that help immigrants prepare for their citizenship exams also include information about available scholarships as part of their curriculum.

12. Partnership with employers: The state has partnered with several employers to create scholarship funds specifically targeting immigrant employees and their children.

13. Collaboration with faith-based organizations: Faith-based organizations serve as an important source of information for many immigrant communities. The state has partnered with these organizations to help spread awareness about scholarship opportunities among their members.

14. Building partnerships with other states: New York has also collaborated with other states, such as California and Texas, to exchange information about best practices in promoting awareness and access to scholarship options among immigrant populations.

15. Does the state government track and report on the success rate of awarding scholarships to undocumented and DACA-eligible students in New York?

I could not find any specific report or data on the success rate of awarding scholarships to undocumented and DACA-eligible students in New York. However, there are some sources that provide information on the overall scholarship aid received by undocumented students. For example, according to a report by The Education Trust, 86% of eligible undocumented high school graduates were not receiving any form of financial assistance for college in 2015.

Additionally, the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC) offers a range of scholarships and grants for undergraduate and graduate students, including those for which undocumented students may be eligible. However, HESC does not collect data on the citizenship status of applicants or recipients for these awards.

Overall, while there may be individual reports or studies conducted by certain institutions or organizations regarding scholarship success rates for undocumented students in New York, there is no comprehensive statewide tracking or reporting system in place currently.

16. Are there any targeted efforts by the state government to improve access to scholarships for specific marginalized groups of immigrants, such as refugees, unaccompanied minors, or DACA recipients, within New York?

Yes, there are a variety of initiatives and programs in New York targeted specifically at these marginalized groups of immigrants to improve access to scholarships. Some examples include:

1. New York State DREAM Act: This act, which was passed in 2019, allows undocumented students who meet certain criteria to apply for state financial aid for higher education, including scholarships.

2. Educational Opportunity Program (EOP): The EOP is designed to provide access, academic support and financial aid to students from underrepresented backgrounds, including immigrants and refugees. It offers scholarship opportunities for eligible students.

3. Unaccompanied Minors Task Force: This task force was created in 2016 by Governor Andrew Cuomo to address the needs of unaccompanied minors who come to New York as refugees or migrants. The task force works with various agencies and organizations to help these minors access educational resources and support, including scholarships.

4. Office for New Americans (ONA): The ONA provides resources and assistance to help immigrants thrive in New York State. This includes information on scholarships and other financial aid options for immigrants pursuing higher education.

5. Scholarship Programs for Refugees: There are several scholarship programs in New York specifically designed for refugees, such as the Jodie Grenier Refugee Education Fund and the HIAS Refugee Education Program.

Overall, the state government in New York has recognized the unique challenges faced by specific marginalized groups of immigrants when it comes to accessing higher education opportunities, and has taken steps to address these issues through targeted initiatives and programs like those listed above.

17. What steps does New York take to ensure equal representation and distribution of scholarship awards among immigrant students from different regions or countries?

There are a few steps that New York takes to ensure equal representation and distribution of scholarship awards among immigrant students from different regions or countries:

1. Partnering with diverse organizations: The state government collaborates with a variety of community-based organizations that serve immigrant populations. These partnerships help in identifying and reaching out to students from different regions and countries.

2. Dedicated outreach efforts: New York has dedicated outreach programs specifically aimed at immigrants and their families. These efforts focus on informing them about the available scholarships, eligibility criteria, and how to apply.

3. Multilingual resources: New York provides multilingual resources, including application materials, eligibility criteria, and website content in various languages commonly spoken by immigrant communities within the state.

4. Non-discriminatory selection processes: Scholarship selection committees in New York are trained to avoid any biases or discrimination against applicants based on their country of origin, race, ethnicity, or religion.

5. Diversity considerations in awarding scholarships: In order to ensure diversity and representation across different regions and countries, scholarship committees take into account the geographic distribution of applicants when selecting awardees.

6. Building partnerships in immigrant communities: The state also works towards building relationships with community leaders and organizations within various immigrant communities to better understand their needs and assist them in promoting the available scholarships among eligible students.

7. Targeted outreach for underrepresented groups: Certain scholarship programs in New York specifically target underserved or underrepresented immigrant communities, such as refugees or undocumented students, to provide opportunities for education.

Overall, New York is committed to promoting equal access and opportunity for all eligible immigrant students seeking higher education through various targeted efforts towards equitable outreach, selection processes, and diversity considerations in awarding scholarships.

18. Are there any specific state policies regarding the use of scholarship funds for immigrant students to cover living expenses, such as housing or transportation, in addition to tuition costs in New York?

Yes, there are specific state policies in New York regarding the use of scholarship funds for immigrant students.

In New York, undocumented immigrant students are eligible to receive state financial aid under the Dream Act, which was passed in 2019. The Dream Act allows undocumented students to apply for state financial aid for higher education, including scholarships and grants, just like any other student who is a US citizen or permanent resident.

These funds can be used for living expenses such as housing and transportation, in addition to tuition costs. However, the amount of financial aid received may vary depending on the individual’s financial need and the availability of funds.

Furthermore, New York also has programs specifically designed to support immigrant students with their education and living expenses. For example, the New York State Youth Leadership Council offers scholarships and grants to undocumented immigrant youth who are pursuing higher education. These funds can be used for a variety of purposes including housing and transportation.

Overall, while there may not be specific policies regarding the use of scholarship funds for living expenses for immigrant students in New York, there are various options available that can provide support for these expenses. It is important for students to research and apply for all available resources to help cover their educational and living costs.

19. How does New York protect the privacy and confidentiality of scholarship applicants who may have immigration concerns when applying for scholarships?

New York State has several measures in place to protect the privacy and confidentiality of scholarship applicants who may have immigration concerns when applying for scholarships. These include:

1. Confidentiality of personal information: All personal information provided by scholarship applicants is kept strictly confidential and is only used for the purpose of evaluating eligibility and awarding scholarships.

2. Non-discriminatory selection process: New York State does not discriminate against individuals based on their immigration status in the administration of its scholarship programs.

3. Limited sharing of information: Only authorized staff members have access to applicants’ personal information, and it is only shared with other agencies or organizations if necessary to verify eligibility or to disburse funds.

4. Data protection measures: The state uses secure online platforms for scholarship applications and takes measures to ensure the security and confidentiality of all applicant data.

5. Safe documentation storage: All physical and electronic documentation provided by scholarship applicants is stored securely to prevent unauthorized access.

6. Protection from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE): New York has a policy that prohibits state employees from asking about an individual’s immigration status unless required by law, such as for certain benefit programs.

7. Legal assistance: New Yorkers can access free legal services through organization such as The Legal Aid Society or Legal Services NYC if they have concerns about sharing their immigration status or documents when applying for scholarships.

Overall, New York State strives to protect the privacy and confidentiality of all scholarship applicants, regardless of their immigration status, in accordance with state laws and policies.

20. In what ways does awarding scholarships to immigrant students contribute to the overall state policy on promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in higher education in New York?

1. Encouraging Inclusivity: By awarding scholarships to immigrant students, the state is sending a message of inclusivity and acceptance towards all individuals, regardless of their background. This promotes diversity on college campuses and creates a welcoming environment for immigrant students.

2. Promoting Equal Opportunities: Immigrant students often face financial barriers and may not have access to the same resources as their peers. By providing them with scholarships, the state is promoting equal opportunities for these students and giving them a level playing field in higher education.

3. Fostering Diversity: Awarding scholarships to immigrant students contributes to the overall diversity of student populations in colleges and universities. This allows for diverse perspectives, experiences, and cultures to be represented on campus, creating a more enriching learning environment for all students.

4. Addressing Education Equity Issues: Providing scholarships to immigrant students helps address education equity issues in New York. Many immigrant families may not have the financial means to support their children’s education, and awarding scholarships can help bridge this gap and promote equity in access to higher education.

5. Supporting Social Mobility: For many immigrant families, higher education is seen as a pathway to social mobility. By offering scholarships specifically targeted towards immigrant students, the state is providing them with opportunities to achieve their educational goals and improve their socioeconomic status.

6. Building an Inclusive Workforce: By supporting the education of immigrant students, the state is also investing in building a diverse and inclusive workforce for the future. These students bring unique perspectives and skills that can contribute positively to various industries and sectors in New York.

7. Meeting State Diversity Goals: Many states have set diversity goals for their colleges and universities in order to better reflect their diverse populations. By awarding scholarships to immigrant students, New York can work towards meeting these goals and create more diverse higher education institutions.

8. Reducing Brain Drain: Studies have shown that a significant number of international students leave the United States after completing their education. By providing scholarships to immigrant students, New York can encourage them to stay in the state and contribute to its economy and workforce.

9. Fostering Understanding and Tolerance: Exposure to diverse cultures and perspectives through a diverse student body can foster understanding, empathy, and tolerance among all students. This contributes to a more inclusive and harmonious society in New York.

10. Promoting State Values: Awarding scholarships to immigrant students aligns with the values of diversity, equity, and inclusion that many states aim to promote. It sends a message that New York values diversity and is committed to providing equal opportunities for all individuals.