Unlocking the doors to higher education can feel daunting for bilingual students. From navigating language barriers to understanding financial aid options, the challenges can pile up, creating obstacles that may seem insurmountable. But it doesn’t have to be that way! Here we explore four critical barriers bilingual students face on their journey to college and offer actionable strategies to overcome each one. Whether it’s mastering the college application process or finding the right resources for academic support, our insights are tailored to help bilingual students and their families succeed. Let’s transform those barriers into stepping stones toward a bright future in higher education.

1. Language Proficiency Challenges

Bilingual students frequently face hurdles due to varying levels of English proficiency. While they may excel in their native language, standardized tests and college applications are primarily in English. This can result in lower test scores and difficulties in articulating their achievements and aspirations on applications. The academic vocabulary used in college prep courses and exams can be particularly challenging, causing some bilingual students to struggle despite their intellectual abilities.

2. Limited Access to Resources and Guidance

Bilingual students often encounter barriers related to limited access to advising, career and college counseling and resources. In many cases, their schools may lack the infrastructure to support bilingual students adequately. School Counselors might not be trained to address the unique needs of bilingual students, or there may simply be a lack of bilingual staff. Without proper guidance on how to identify the right post-secondary program that leads to their career goals, navigating the college application process, understanding financial aid options, and identifying suitable and affordable colleges, bilingual students can find themselves at a disadvantage.

3. Course Access

Bilingual students are often subject to an over abundance of Language proficiency coursework and limited access to core content and pos t-secondary admissions coursework.  It is important for staff to evaluate if we are directing students to courses with services rather than moving services to the courses students need to graduate or to prepare for their career pathways.  

4. Cultural and Familial Expectations

It is important to honor students cultural and familial values. In some cultures, there is an emphasis on immediate employment after high school to contribute to the family’s income. This can result in pressure to forego higher education in favor of working. Additionally, parents might prioritize staying close to home, leading to reluctance in supporting their child’s decision to attend a distant college. These cultural dynamics can create internal conflicts for students who wish to pursue higher education but also feel a strong sense of duty to their families, so it is important to provide families and students with information to make informed decisions that respects their values. 

Dismantling Barriers

By understanding these barriers, district leaders, educators, advisors, school counselors, and policymakers can work together to create more supportive environments and resources that help bilingual students overcome these challenges and achieve their dreams. Investing in bilingual education programs, providing targeted advising services, and fostering a wholistic career program that provides support for identify what students want to achieve and then there post-secondary programming that leads to those goals within bilingual communities are essential steps toward ensuring that all students have the opportunity to succeed.