College Access & Affordability for Minority Students

Access to college has become increasingly difficult for many Americans due to skyrocketing tuition costs outpacing inflation, but statistics show it can be especially difficult for minority students.

1. 2006 statistics show that minority students are less likely to attend college than their peers.

• 58% of all students attend college
  •  66% of White students attend college
  • 50% of Black students attend college
  • 32% of Hispanic students attend college

(The Condition of Education, National Center for Education Statistics, U.S. Department of Education)

2. With regards to graduation rates, the trend continues:

• 28% of all students go on to graduate college
  • 34% are White
  • 19% are Black
  • 10% are Hispanic

(The Condition of Education, National Center for Education Statistics, U.S. Department of Education)

3. Many are likely to agree with the statement that many qualified students do not have the opportunity to go to college. Of those asked whether they agree or disagree with the statement, statistics show:

• 56% of White parents agree


• 84% of Black parents agree


• 67% of Hispanic parents agree

(Squeeze Play: Parents & Public Look at Higher Education, Public Agenda, 1/1/2007)

4. Minority students are more likely to indicate that they were unable to attend the college of their choice due to financial concerns:

• 40% of White students were unable to attend their first choice


• 59% of Black students were unable to attend their first choice


• 58% of Hispanics were unable to attend their first choice

(Squeeze Play: Parents & Public Look at Higher Education, Public Agenda, 1/1/2007)

5. By their late 20's:

• More than 33% of Whites have at least a bachelor's degree


• 18% of Blacks have at least a bachelor's degree


• 10% of Hispanics have at least a bachelor's degree

(Pathways to College Network, 2004 "A Shared Agenda")

Prepared by the Campaign for College Affordability