To reflect the changing composition of ethnic groups in the population and the recorded aspirations of hispanic high school seniors, institutions of higher education must prepare for a dramatic increase in the numbers of hispanics attending in the decade of the 1980's. Outlined in the paper are factors which affect hispanic (Cuban, Mexican, and Puerto Rican Americans) students in higher education: the phenomenon of hispanic immigration; lack of higher education institutions in urban areas; lack of information because of language and attitude barriers; admissions criteria; delayed education, drop-outs, and student retention; and cultural values and cognitive styles. "Positive" affirmative action and bilingual/multicultural approaches are explored as courses of action for higher education institutions. Ten federal and state programs designed to enhance educational opportunity are discussed with respect to distribution of funds among ethnic/racial groups. Recommendations based on research and conference discussions are presented including programs to increase participation of hispanics in non-traditional areas such as science and engineering; industry career programs to involve hispanics at various levels of decision making; better monitoring of federal programs at state and local levels; and increased funding for bilingual teacher training. (NEC)