IMPACT & EVIDENCE

Anchored Pathways is needed because Texas families still face major barriers in college access, affordability, transfer, and completion.

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The data show that

• first-generation applicant growth jumped from about 13,000 in 2020–21 to about 43,000 in 2024–25;

• first-generation students graduate at 24% vs. 59% for continuing-generation peers;

• about 51% of Hispanic students are first-generation;

• about 37% of Hispanic students attend public two-year colleges;

• Texas counselors serve about 385 students each;

• only 54.7% of the Class of 2026 completed FAFSA by May 2026;

• about 31.6% complete a bachelor's after starting at community college;

• fewer than 25% of an 8th-grade cohort earned any credential within 11 years;

• 59% of community college students considered dropping out due to financial stress.

 

Texas aims for 60% of adults ages 25–64 to hold a certificate or degree by 2030.

 

Together, these findings show why bilingual, family-centered navigation is important: it helps students understand applications, financial aid, transfer choices, and the steps that lead to a credential.