Understanding Adult Immigrants’ Higher Education Access: South Korean Case

Abstract

[Purpose] This study aims to understand the characteristics of adult immigrants who aspire to enter or have entered higher education institutions in South Korea from a lifecourse perspective. [Methods] Through an online survey, we collected data from 407 adult immigrants residing across the nation, seeking to explore the intricate interplay of pre-migration and post-migration factors that shape their educational aspiration and access to higher education. [Results] Our analysis revealed that pre-migration factors, such as prior education and job experiences, played a significant role, as did post-migration factors like participation in Korean language education programs. Additionally, we found that post-migration life conditions, such as current household income, marital status, and nationality significantly influenced adult immigrants' access to higher education. [Conclusion] These findings highlight the importance of understanding adult immigrants' educational aspirations or access within the broader context of their own lifecourse trajectory. By adopting a lifecourse perspective, we shed light on the multifaceted nature of the factors that influence adult immigrants' pursuit of higher education in South Korea.