Young adults in the USA face a multitude of challenges, particularly those from multi-disadvantaged backgrounds. This paper examines the socio-economic and cultural barriers impacting the educational experiences of young adults aged 18-29 within formal education settings in the USA. Utilising theoretical frameworks of life course research, intersectionality, and spatial justice, this study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted barriers that hinder educational attainment. Drawing on data collected from surveys, interviews, and secondary sources, we employ robust statistical techniques, including regression and factor analysis, to identify and analyse key socio-economic barriers such as income, employment status, and parental education. Additionally, we explore cultural barriers, including language proficiency, ethnicity, and cultural capital, and conduct an intersectional analysis to uncover the compounded effects of these factors. Our findings reveal significant disparities in educational outcomes linked to socio-economic and cultural factors, highlighting the pervasive nature of educational inequities in the USA. The analysis indicates that young adults from lower socio-economic backgrounds and minority cultural groups face substantial obstacles in accessing and succeeding in formal education. These barriers are exacerbated by institutional and structural factors, emphasising the need for targeted policies and practices to support vulnerable populations.