The State of Higher Education in California—Asian American, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander Report

Abstract

California is home to the nation’s largest Asian American community and second largest Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (NHPI) community. Approximately, 6.3 million Asian Americans and 347,501 NHPIs live in California. A common misconception is that all Asian Americans are successful in the educational context. In reality, Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders are composed of diverse communities that experience a wide range of educational barriers and outcomes. This report seeks to portray a more accurate picture of Asian Americans and NHPIs in higher education in California by analyzing data disaggregated by ethnicity when possible in order to bring to light the needs and issues facing Asian American and NHPI students. It is our hope and desire that policymakers, business leaders, and community advocates use the information presented in this report to inform state budget and policy conversations along with encouraging targeted college practices aimed at improving educational outcomes for the Asian American and NHPI community in California.