5.1: Objective 5.1
Reduce the gaps in college access and completion among student populations differing by race/ethnicity, socioeconomic status,
and disability while increasing the educational attainment of all
Other Information:
The economy of the 21st century requires more workers than ever to develop skills and master knowledge beyond the high-school
level. Although progress has been made over the years to increase participation and graduation levels for all individuals,
large gaps still exist between low-income and middle- and high-income students, between minority and nonminority students,
and between students with disabilities and their non-disabled peers. In the year 2000, according to NCES data, 65.7 percent
of white youth aged 16 to 24 enrolled in college the fall following high school graduation, while only 54.9 percent of their
African American peers and 52.9 percent of their Hispanic peers were similarly enrolled. Graduation rates show similar gaps.
The Department will work to close these gaps through its student financial aid and institutional aid programs. In addition,
the Department will continue its efforts to enhance preparation for college, increase knowledge about college preparation
and financial aid availability, and improve college support services for students from all economic and social backgrounds.
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