A Blueprint for Collective Action on Postsecondary Access and Success in New York City

Abstract

New York City — and the nation at large — is at a watershed moment when it comes to supporting students’ higher education goals. On one hand, NYC students are increasingly graduating from high school: the class of 2017 had the highest four-year high school graduation rate the city has seen in over a decade. On the other hand, significant challenges are deterring the city’s young adults from entering college, or causing them to leave after enrolling. Indeed, less than a quarter of students entering City University of New York (CUNY) colleges earn their associate’s degree in four years, and just over half earn a bachelor’s degree in six years. This report points out recommendations to make postsecondary education affordable for all.