National Council of La Raza: Policies

Higher Education

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Overview A fast-growing population, Latinos represent 15.1% of the college-age population and 12% of all undergraduates in U.S. colleges and universities. Still, less than a quarter of Latino students ages 18 through 24 are enrolled in postsecondary degree-granting institutions, and Hispanics represent only 5% of graduate students. With more than half of all Hispanic college students attending Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs), two- and four-year institutions that have an enrollment in which at least 25% of students are Hispanic, HSIs serve an important role in educating the Latino community.

NCLR Position Through legislative vehicles, such as the Higher Education Act, NCLR supports policies and initiatives that seek to increase access to and retention in postsecondary education for Latino students. Specifically, NCLR works to maintain and strengthen HSIs, college outreach and retention programs, such as the Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP), and programs assisting migrant students. In addition, NCLR advocates for policies that will help Latino students secure an affordable path to college.

SCHOLARSHIPS AND OPPORTUNITIES