Immigrant families face unique barriers to university education

A new report highlights the challenges faced by immigrant families that affect their children’s decision to attend university, including language barriers, cultural differences, financial constraints and parent involvement with schools.

Removing barriers to higher education for these families could open up job opportunities, create more inclusive communities, and build a skilled workforce – ultimately driving economic growth and innovation.

The study ‘Immigrant Parents' Perceptions and Their Influence on Their Children's Decisions to Pursue University Education’ was led by Dr Rayan Merkbawi from the University of Technology Sydney (UTS).

The researchers interviewed parents and teachers at Punchbowl Boys High School in Western Sydney. They found that parents generally place a high value on education, but face issues such as unstable housing, financial constraints and a limited knowledge of university pathways.

“Many immigrant parents struggle to give their children the academic support they need because they might not have a strong educational background or they’re not familiar with the Australian education system,” said Dr Merkbawi.

“Language barriers also make it harder for them to communicate with schools, which can limit their involvement. However, immigrant parents actively take on these challenges and this has a strong influence on their child’s educational journey.”

Co-investigator Dr Ece Kaya said teachers reported that these challenges were exacerbated by the influence of peers, lack of academic preparedness and the temptation to start working in a trade and earning money rather than pursuing higher education.

“Teachers also noted there was sometimes a disconnect between parent expectations and students’ aspirations,” said Dr Kaya.

“Despite these challenges, schools have implemented various support programs, including language programs, cultural inclusion initiatives, university visits and tutoring, to encourage students’ pursuit of higher education,” she said.

The report, which was supported by a grant from the UTS Centre for Social Justice & Inclusion and UTS Business School, emphasises the need for renewed attention and resourcing to bridge gaps between schools and immigrant families.

“Research has often looked at systemic barriers and family influences separately, however understanding how these interact is crucial for effective intervention,” said Dr Merkbawi.

Recommendations include culturally responsive communication strategies, expanded school-university partnerships, HSC and ATAR parent education programs, and enhanced financial and language support for students and families.

Co-investigator Professor Rachel Wilson said the education system needs to monitor the progress of disadvantaged and migrant student cohorts and direct funding, resources and effective programs to ensure they receive the same opportunities as others.

“A holistic approach addressing socioeconomic, cultural, and educational challenges is essential to support pathways to university for immigrant students, and to improve outcomes for this group,” she said.

The researchers shared their findings by engaging the community in a dialogue about the future of education with the panel discussion titled "To earn or learn: Student's aspirations beyond high school" at Punchbowl Boys High School on 1 November 2024. With the participation of The Hon. Jihad Dib, Minister for Youth Justice, the panel created a platform for meaningful discussion and potential policy formulation.

For a copy of the report please contact the researchers.