S.7. (2026) Percentage of first-generation students and the U.S. bachelor’s attainment rate for adults 25 years and older

How have the percentage of first generation students and the bachelor’s degree attainment rate changed over time?

As the bachelor’s degree attainment rate has gone up, the percentage of first generation of students have gone down.

Publications

The Indicators of Higher Education Equity in the United States: 2026 Historical Trend Report
S.4. (2026) Percentage Distribution of State and Federal Prisoners, Age 25 and Over, by Highest Level of Education Completed: 2016
Indicator 1h(ii). Percentage distribution of undergraduate students by parents’ educational attainment
Indicator 2a. Percentage distribution of full-time, first-time degree-seeking undergraduate students who did and did not receive Pell or other federal grants by level of institution attended
Indicator 2b. Percentage distribution of full-time, first-time degree-seeking undergraduate federal grant recipients and nonrecipients, by control of institution attended
Indicator 2c. Percentage of full-time, first-time degree/certificate-seeking undergraduate students receiving federal grants by sector
Indicator 2e. Average percentage of full-time, first-time degree/certificate-seeking undergraduate student who were awarded federal grants by institutional selectivity
Indicator 3a(i). Average college costs (undergraduate tuition, fees, and room and board) charged for full-time students in degree-granting postsecondary institutions, by institutional level and control

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The Pell Institute is the first research institute to specifically examine the issues affecting educational opportunity for low-income, first-generation, and disabled college students. Learn more about the Pell Institute, including our mission, purpose, goals, and history.