College Counseling for Latino and Underrepresented Students

Latinos represent almost one quarter of students enrolled in pre-kindergarten through twelfth grade in public schools. Between 2011 and 2022, Latino postsecondary enrollment will increase by 27% – the largest rate of increase of all groups. This study, by the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) in partnership with Excelencia in Education, examines the role of high school counselors in assisting Latino and other underrepresented students through their transition to college.

Public high schools continue to emphasize the importance of planning for postsecondary education. For Latinos and other underrepresented groups, counselors can act as a catalyst in the development of postsecondary aspirations and the formation of “college knowledge.” Increasing knowledge on academic and financial aid options for Latinos and their families help reduce barriers to regarding postsecondary education. One-on-one and culturally competent counseling positively affect Latinos enrolling in college after high school graduation. This study uses site visits to examine the challenges and successes of providing college readiness counseling to Latino students. NACAC’s counseling trends survey lends information to the effects of counseling on student enrollment in postsecondary education. The study also includes recommendations for improving college counseling, access, and success for Latinos.