Making the Case

Key Messages and Data • Making the Case Resources • Media Activity • Speeches and Addresses • Books and Reports •

Fact 2 - First-Generation Student Graduation Rate
First-generation students at private institutions are much more likely to succeed than those at public universities. Their graduation rate at independent colleges and universities is 61 percent, versus only 44 percent at public institutions.

Source: Analysis by the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities, “Independent Colleges and Universities: A National Profile” (2004). U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics, 1995-96 Beginning Postsecondary Students Longitudinal Study, Second Follow-up (BPS:96/01).
Note: First-generation student is defined as one whose parents' highest education level is a high school diploma or less.