This monograph discusses issues and problems in enhancing the academic and financial preparation of minority students in Virginia for college. Practices contributing to the disproportionately low percentage of minority students prepared for college are identified including inadequate preparation of teachers to instruct students from diverse backgrounds; failure of guidance counselors to identify and enroll minority students in academic programs; and use of ability grouping and disproportionate tracking of minority students into non-college preparatory programs. Five major recommendations are made: (1) ensure inservice and preservice training for administrators, counselors, and teachers on the learning styles and guidance needs of minority students; (2) promote increased parental involvement in and greater community support for the education of minority students; (3) empower minority students and their parents by providing them with information needed to prepare for college; (4) present seminars, workshops, and conferences that focus on eliminating barriers to Virginia's higher education system; and (5) reduce the widespread use of ability grouping and tracking. Also provided are statistics for minority enrollment in state-supported institutions of higher education, graduation rates from various educational levels, and enrollment in Governor's School programs. An appendix describes state assistance programs for at-risk students. (Contains 18 reference notes). (JPB)