More Outreach Needed to Address Low College Graduation Rates Among Latinos

“The Latino population continues to grow at a rapid clip – at 41 million people, compared to 33 million just eight years ago, Latinos are now the fastest growing and the largest minority group in the United States. Yet, according to the nonprofit Hispanic Scholarship Fund, this population growth is not being matched by simultaneous growth in the number of Latinos with college degrees.

Thousands of college-age Latinos are not capitalizing on the benefits of a college education – just over 10 percent of Latinos have college degrees. With a projected Latino college-age population numbering almost 10 million by 2020, the current trend could have profound implications on American society. In earnings potential, the difference between a high school and a college degree can be staggering. According to the College Board, college graduates can expect to make almost $1 million more than those who end their education after high school. Assuming current trends, this means that even a conservative estimate of unrealized earnings for Latinos is in the billions of dollars. “

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