Publication Date

3-16-2010

Summary

Increasingly, college graduation is seen as a necessary step toward achieving the American Dream. However, large disparities exist in graduation rates. This study examines the college progress of young adults. Findings suggest that 57% of young adults between the ages of 17 and 23 are “on course,” that is, are currently attending or have graduated from college. Those with family assets and savings of their own are more likely to be on course. In multivariate analysis, both net worth and youth school savings are strong predictors of college progress. Youth school savings and parental savings for youth are strong predictors of youth’s college expectations and appear to have indirect effects on college progress, through expectations.

Document Type

Working Paper

Category

Financial Inclusion

Subarea

Asset Building

Notes

Subsequent publication: Elliott, W., III, & Beverly, S. G. (2011). Staying on course: The effects of savings and assets on the college progress of young adults. American Journal of Education, 117(3), 343–374. doi:10.1086/659211

Original Citation

Elliott, W., III, & Beverly, S. G. (2010). Staying on course: The effects of savings and assets on the college progress of young adults (CSD Working Paper No. 10-12). St. Louis, MO: Washington University, Center for Social Development.

Project

College Success

Keywords

529, assets, college expectations, college enrollment, college degree attainment, child development account, CDA, PSID

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