Boston Community Education Center

Our great city of Boston and its surrounding towns are home to some of the finest educational institutions in the world, as well as to a population that is rich with culture and diversity. As of 2023, almost 30% of Boston's residents are immigrants who left their native countries in search of opportunity and a better life. New immigrants often have difficulties speaking English, and the resulting language barrier creates the risk of preventing immigrants from obtaining licenses and jobs, even when they already have the required skills. As a result, immigrants with limited English proficiency are left with low-wage jobs and often live below the poverty line. Research has found that immigrants with a high degree of English proficiency earn three times more than those with low English proficiency.

​​

Additionally, approximately 20% of adult MA immigrants have not received a high school diploma or its equivalent. Lack of access to educational resources/certifications prevents many employment opportunities for immigrants. 

​

Sources: Immigration Research Initiative,  The Immigrant Learning Center

​