A Snapshot of African Americans in Higher Education

In recognition of national African-American History Month, the Institute for Higher Education Policy highlights the trends and present-day experiences of African-American college students. Recognizing that society benefits tremendously from an educated citizenry, there must be a renewed commitment to ensuring educational opportunity, particularly for those students for whom opportunity has been elusive. The following is an overview of facts and trends highlighting the postsecondary experiences and educational opportunities of African Americans. This report is not a comprehensive listing, but rather provides additional context for understanding some of the lingering challenges impeding the educational progress of African Americans.