Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs) are institutions of higher education that have a designated Hispanic student population of at least 25%.
There are over 500 HSIs in the United States and they play a critical role in providing access to higher education and improving college retention and graduation rates for Hispanic students.
HSIs are not exclusively for Hispanic students, but they do prioritize serving Hispanic students and their unique needs. In fact, HSIs actually benefit all students, including non-Hispanic students, by providing a diverse and inclusive learning environment.
HSIs offer a variety of degrees and majors, ranging from certificates and associate degrees to bachelor’s and even master’s and doctoral degrees. Many HSIs also offer programs and resources specific to Hispanic students, such as culturally relevant coursework, bilingual support services, and financial aid and scholarship opportunities.
One important thing to note about HSIs is that they do not receive any additional federal funding. Instead, they are designated as such based on their enrollment of Hispanic students. This means that while HSIs are vital resources for Hispanic students, they often face financial challenges to continue providing the resources and support needed to serve their students.
If you are a Hispanic student considering attending a college or university, it may be worth exploring whether the institution you are interested in is an HSI. Additionally, if you are looking to support Hispanic students in higher education, consider advocating for increased funding and support for HSIs.
In conclusion, HSIs are critical institutions that play a unique role in providing opportunities for Hispanic students to pursue higher education. As the Hispanic population continues to grow in the United States, HSIs will only become more important in ensuring that all students have access to a high-quality college education.
