At College Futures Foundation, we believe in the power of postsecondary opportunity. We believe securing the postsecondary success of learners facing the most formidable barriers will ensure that all of us can thrive—our communities, our economy, and our state. Today, just 56% of California adults ages 25 to 64 hold a postsecondary degree or credential. While this rate has steadily increased over time and is on par with nationwide attainment, it falls short of our state’s aspirations. Even more, this overall rate masks deep and persistent equity gaps within our state, as attainment levels vary significantly by race, ethnicity, and income, with underserved learners facing the greatest barriers to completion.

Following the release of our new vision and mission, we set forth a near-star goal: By 2035, at least 70% of California learners who are underserved will attain a postsecondary degree or credential that increases opportunity for economic mobility. It is critical for us to ensure that attainment aligns with economic mobility and that we center our focus on underserved learners as part of our equity imperative. We recognize that failing to advance equitable attainment has profound economic and social consequences—and we are determined to drive meaningful change.

As we strive toward our near-star goal, we hope this baseline research on postsecondary attainment rates across California lays the groundwork for increasing equitable attainment and supporting California’s learners to thrive.

Download the Attainment Research