Texas families still face major barriers in college access, affordability, transfer, and completion as of 25-26.

​

The data show that:​

• 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.

​

Together, these findings show why accessible, family-centered navigation matters — and why first-generation students need someone in their corner at every stage of the process."