RFA is conducting an exploratory study examining college persistence rates among public high school graduates from approximately 11 counties in southwestern Pennsylvania. The study, funded by The Heinz Endowments, is tracking one- to three-year persistence rates for graduates from the Class of 2022 who enrolled in college immediately after high school (Fall 2022) and those who entered college in Fall 2023. Additionally, RFA will be analyzing persistence patterns across key student subgroups, including traditionally marginalized populations, students who enrolled immediately versus those who took a gap year, students attending two-year versus four-year degree programs, and those enrolled in in-state versus out-of-state institutions. By examining college persistence, particularly among marginalized students, this research will generate valuable insights into factors influencing postsecondary success and establish a baseline for understanding college persistence patterns of public high school graduates in the region. The findings from this study can inform targeted interventions to support students in their transition beyond high school and highlight areas where further research is needed to strengthen college retention efforts.
Exploring College Persistence Among Public High School Graduates in Southwestern Pennsylvania
Began in August 2025