Such a policy is conducted to help victims of long-term discrimination—for example, the descendants of slaves who were exploited by "white people" a century and a half ago. However, as a result, immigrants from Africa and Caribbean countries receive benefits at US universities that are intended for others—"native-born" black Americans.
The study showed that black immigrants are much more likely to attend universities. For instance, in the top US universities and colleges belonging to the so-called "Ivy League," non-native black students make up 40% of all black students, while within the US black community as a whole, their share does not exceed 13%. Moreover, immigrants are much more likely to attend private (usually expensive) and prestigious educational institutions. The study authors explain this by noting that immigrants generally have more educated parents. However, during their studies, black immigrants do no better than "native-born" African Americans. An article about this was published by the American Journal of Education.
The policy of granting minorities most-favored status in US university admissions began in 1961 when President John F. Kennedy signed a corresponding executive order. This was done to help representatives of low-income and low-education segments of the population obtain decent jobs, education, etc. Since then, US legislation in this area has become incredibly complicated, and the success of this project has been periodically criticized. In the US, such programs operate at various levels—federal, state, city, individual university, and even faculty. They are collectively referred to as "Affirmative Action programs."
In 2005, Princeton University also analyzed who has an easier time getting into prestigious universities. It turned out that black applicants and athletes are in the best position; it is slightly more difficult for representatives of the Hispanic minority; and even more difficult for children of alumni. Other categories of applicants do not have privileges (though girls are sometimes given easier admission to STEM faculties).
Similar schemes are used by other countries around the world. For example, in Germany, if two equally qualified candidates—a man and a woman—apply for the same position, the woman will get the job. In India, there are quotas for representatives of lower castes and ethnic minorities. In New Zealand, Maori and their descendants have an advantage in university admissions. In Northern Ireland, an equal number of Catholics and Protestants must be hired for police service, etc.
As a result, many people try by all means to prove their belonging to a group that has advantages in employment or education—sometimes such proofs are simply fabricated. This causes dissatisfaction among "legitimate" benefit recipients. For example, leaders of "native-born" African Americans often criticize black immigrants.