Many school districts in California are focused on preparing their students for success in college, yet few have information about how they fare once they enroll, whether or not they graduate with a degree, and how college readiness supports for students are working.

Research Tracks LAUSD Students’ College Enrollment Rates and How LAUSD Prepares Students for College  

The first comprehensive analysis of college enrollment of Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) graduates shows that 70 percent enrolled in either two- or four-year colleges, but only 25 percent of graduates went on to earn a college degree within six years. Significant college-going disparities exist based on gender, ethnicity, English learner status, and academic preparation.

A second, parallel study on college readiness found that over 75 percent of high school counselors say they have adequate information to help students complete college and financial aid applications, yet less than half (42 percent) say they have enough time to provide students with the assistance they need. This study provided the first district-wide data on college readiness resources and serves as a foundation for college readiness professional development resources for schools.

College Futures Foundation supported this research, led by a team from UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs, Claremont Graduate University, and the Los Angeles Education Research Institute (LAERI)—working in collaboration with LAUSD.

The reports are intended to support a broader conversation about how the Los Angeles community can help ensure that more students enroll in college and complete a degree.

Download the College Going in LAUSD report

Download the College Readiness Supports in LAUSD High Schools report