Immigrant Students at CNM
CNM appreciates and values the broad diversity of our student body. We support our students and strive to ensure a safe and welcoming environment at our college.
Anybody who wants to improve their future through a CNM education or training program is welcome here. That’s because we know that each time we help a student overcome challenges, persevere, graduate, and start a life-changing career, it’s not just the student who benefits – a family becomes stronger and our community becomes stronger.
Together, we’ll ensure that CNM is a safe, welcoming, and supportive college where all students feel empowered to achieve their educational and career goals.
Please refer to this page to understand the resources available to you at CNM, our student privacy policies, your rights as a student at CNM, and other information regarding residency.
Student Privacy
CNM will not provide any student information to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or other agencies, per the Family and Education Rights and Privileges Act of 1974 (FERPA). According to FERPA, schools are generally required to withhold information that could identify students to third parties, including federal immigration officials.
Undocumented immigrants have the same protections to their information as other learners. School administrators and staff are not allowed to share the immigration status of any learner, staff, or faculty member.
Furthermore, CNM does not collect or report individual student U.S. immigration status.
ICE on CNM Campuses
If you are contacted by an ICE agent on a CNM Campus, direct the agent to CNM Security. You may direct the agent to the Public Safety Building or have the agent call (505) 224-3002. Any law enforcement agency is required to check in with CNM Security before taking action on campus. If a federal agent wishes to speak to a student, Security must first review the agent's required documentation.
Similar to any other member of the public, an ICE agent may not access restricted spaces on CNM campuses, such as administrative offices, as well as classrooms. If an agent requests access to any such areas on campus, or any personally-identifying student information, direct the agent to CNM Security.
CNM Resources for All Learners
- Services: Visit this page for an overview of CNM services, including Financial Aid, Advisement, Student Clubs, and more.
- Tuition: Most non-citizens are non-residents for tuition purposes. Non-citizens who submit proof of having applied for or obtained Permanent Resident status, are on active duty in the Armed Forces of the United States, or who qualify for an SB 582 waiver, may be eligible for resident tuition rates.
- CNM Unidos Scholarships and Resources: CNM provides state and college-directed financial aid. Some federal financial aid may be available.
- Food Pantries: Learn more about CNM's Food Pantry, including locations, hours, contact, and donation information.
- Cultural Teams: CNM's cultural teams strive to promote cultural awareness, diversity, and inclusivity, as well as connect you to internal and external resources needed to support your academic careers.
- Wellness CNM: CNM is here to support students with mental health, wellness, and various community resources.
- BetterMynd: Free mental health tele-therapy for registered learners.
- Student Ombudsman: Any learner who has concerns about CNM services or resources can ask the College’s Ombudsman. The staff member will provide guidance for learners to access relevant information, referrals, and interventions.
- Immigrant FAQs for Students and Employees: Frequently asked questions and answers to matters regarding immigrant status.
All students can receive the following support services upon request: food, mental health, childcare, and transportation services. Some of these services may be dependent upon funding availability.
- New Mexico Immigrant Law Center: Helps low-income immigrant communities through advocacy, legal services, and education.
- New Mexico Department of Justice: Protects the public interest and vulnerable members of the community. Read their Guidance on Immigration Enforcement and Guidance to Assist New Mexico's Colleges and Universities in Responding to Immigration Issues (PDF).
- American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU): A nonprofit organization that protects the freedom of individuals in the United States. Regardless of immigration status, you have rights under the Constitution.