The Non-Financial Factors that Can Explain the Low Graduation Rate of Black Students in Higher Education

Abstract

Aim/Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to evaluate literature that considers how non-financial factors can influence the enrollment and the low graduation rates of Black students in higher education institutions. Background: Non-financial factors such as the academic, social, and family environments can have a significant impact on the school trajectory of individuals in Black communities. In this paper, we reviewed and analyzed qualitative and quantitative papers that examined school environmental factors as well as social and family environmental factors. Methodology: This paper is a review of the recent literature around the social factors influencing Black students’ academic experience. Findings: The main social factors retained from the literature that affect the graduation rate of Black students in higher education are adjustment and challenges, type of school and structure, stereotypes and prejudices; family background and structure effect, peers’ effect/role models and students’ social status, and non-linear academic path. Impact on Society: We seek to highlight information about how family and social environmental elements intersect with the school environment and how this intersection affects academic success and dropout rate.