Burmese-American Sustained Educational Success, Growing Civic and Economic Contributions, and Community Development
Strong College Outcomes: Burmese Americans had a 90.3% college-going rate and a 96.6% college-persistence rate in 2026. These rates have stayed above 90% and 95%, respectively, for seven consecutive years.
Large Indiana Community: About 45,000 Burmese people live in Indiana, including roughly 32,000 in Indianapolis. Nationwide, the Burmese-American population is estimated at more than 350,000.
INDIANAPOLIS, Aug. 7, 2026 — A study released by the Burmese American Community Institute (BACI) today at its 15th Annual Research Presentation found that the college-going rate among Burmese Americans reached 90.3 percent this year, while the college persistence rate stood at 96.6 percent.
The findings show that Burmese Americans have continued to maintain a college-going rate above 90 percent and a college persistence rate above 95 percent for the past seven consecutive years. These sustained rates highlight the community’s continued commitment to higher education and academic achievement.
“We are happy to see the continued success of Burmese American students with their higher education performance in the United States,” said Dr. Bruce Ray, a member of the Board of Directors of the BACI.
The study also shows that, as of July 30, 2026, about 45,000 Burmese individuals are living in Indiana, with 32,000 of them calling Indianapolis home. The Burmese population across the U.S. is estimated to be over 350,000, including those who entered the country through various pathways, such as family reunification.
Thirty-seven researchers presented findings and solution-oriented policy recommendations across six topics, highlighting the importance of assessing the socioeconomic status of the Burmese community through innovative research and community-based evaluation. These efforts are designed to inform meaningful action and help improve the quality of life for community members.
In his remarks, BACI President Mr. Elaisa Vahnie congratulated the researchers and thanked community members for their support, noting that the young leaders and scholars have not only produced impactful research and knowledge in such a short time, but are also helping address some of the most pressing challenges facing their community while growing into productive and contributing members of society.
“We are profoundly grateful to the American people and Hoosiers for welcoming us, giving us the opportunity to begin new lives, and supporting us as we work to succeed. Just as it takes a village to raise a child, the success and positive impact we see today are a testament to the strong collaborative partnerships, friendships, and bonds we have forged together,” Vahnie said.
“Moving forward, guided by our shared vision of accessible education and a stronger community, we remain dedicated to serving our families and neighbors by meeting essential basic needs, supporting educational achievement and long-term economic mobility, and strengthening partnerships that foster lasting, positive change throughout our community”.
In addition to maintaining a 100% post-secondary education enrollment rate among students who successfully complete the Upward College Programs, BACI continues to empower new Americans through English and civic education, naturalization assistance, and support with gainful employment and microenterprise development, helping community members become fully engaged and contributing citizens.
The reports noted that students who completed the BACI programs have gone on to pursue and earn college, professional, and graduate degrees and assume leadership roles across various sectors, including education, healthcare, business, and many other professional and career fields within their communities.
The Governor of the State of Indiana proclaimed July as Burmese American Community Month, honoring the many contributions and achievements of Burmese Americans across Indiana. The proclamation recognizes that “the growing Burmese population has been actively participating in our state’s economy, high educational performance, and vibrant cultural diversity,” continuing to enrich Hoosier communities throughout the state and help make Indiana a better place for everyone.” ###
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This year’s topics of action research include:
1. College Going Rate Among Burmese American Students and Language Brokering
2. College Persistence Rate Among Burmese American Students and Impacting Factors
3. Community Political Participation: Community Status and Strength and Barriers
4. Global Climate Change: Community Awareness and Actions
5. Health: Understanding Burmese Maternal Health Literacy and Health Seeking Behaviors
6. U.S. Refugee Resettlement Program and Secondary Migration: study of refugee’s history, updates, migration processes and migratory patterns and population.
The BACI summer project also estimated that nationally 600+ Burmese Americans graduated from American Colleges and Universities and 2,000 from High Schools respectively in 2026.
Hosted at the University of Indianapolis, the event was attended by nearly 200 community members, faith and civic leaders, partners, including parents and representatives from various educational institutions, as well as government and nonprofit agencies.
Founded in 2011, the Burmese American Community Institute (BACI) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing health and human services, as well as educational and vocational support, to the Burmese community throughout greater Indianapolis. Through strategic partnerships and advocacy, BACI serves community members at the regional, national, and global levels. Since its founding, BACI has supported more than 35,000 individuals.
