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National Higher Education Day

Empowering students to reach their academic aspirations and striving for equitable access to higher education opportunities benefits society.

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Position your organization as an enabler of educational access by sponsoring scholarships, hosting financial aid workshops, or promoting tuition assistance programs during National Higher Education Day in June.

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Share student success stories of scholarship recipients and their career outcomes
Host a free financial aid webinar or college prep workshop for high school students and parents
Partner with local schools to promote affordable tuition options and education financing solutions
Highlight your organization's commitment to educational equity through donation matching or scholarship programs

History

The inaugural celebration of National Higher Education Day took place in 2015 after it was founded through the efforts of Izamar Olaguez and Marcie Hronis.

The purpose behind the day was to encourage students to pursue higher education, along with shining a spotlight and raising awareness about the need for more affordable tuition and fees at colleges and universities, particularly in the United States.

While the day officially started in fairly recent years, the background of and motivation behind this day goes back 50 years prior to its first celebration, starting with the National Higher Education Act of 1965.

The aim of this act was to improve the possibilities for students by offering assistance through higher education programs and financial assistance, making college more accessible for everyone.

The team behind National Higher Education Day states that their goal is to fully equip and prepare every student in the United States for a higher education, academically and scholastically as well as financially.

How to celebrate

Donate to a Scholarship Program

One of the most excellent ways to celebrate National Higher Education Day is to make a donation that helps make it possible for an upcoming student to get the training and degree they need to make their impact on the world. This can happen through a number of different programs and charities that provide college scholarships for students from different backgrounds or with unique interests for the future.

Promote Higher Education

Teachers, parents, students and other community leaders can all play a part in National Higher Education Day by using their voice throughout their sphere of influence. This might mean having a conversation with a potential college student, helping to tutor a high school student for college preparedness, or sharing about higher education experiences and opportunities on social media.

Host a National Higher Education Day Event

High schools, colleges, libraries and other community activists can work together for National Higher Education Day to put on events that promote awareness and accessibility. Invite the community to a lecture, an open college day, a scholarship review seminar, a financial aid workshop or some other form of gathering that tears down barriers and helps potential students get their needs met.

FAQ

How does higher education affect a person’s income and employment prospects over time?

Research consistently finds that people with higher levels of education tend to earn more and face lower unemployment across their working lives. In the United States, bachelor’s degree holders had median weekly earnings about 55 percent higher than those with only a high school diploma in 2022, and their unemployment rate was roughly half as high. Similar patterns appear in many countries, with tertiary graduates generally experiencing better job stability and a lower risk of long-term unemployment, even when economic conditions are weak.

What are the main types of financial aid that help make college more affordable?

Financial aid usually comes in four main forms: grants, scholarships, work-study, and student loans. Grants and scholarships do not need to be repaid and can come from governments, colleges, or private organizations. Federal work-study provides part-time jobs to eligible students so they can earn money for education expenses. Student loans, which may be federal or private, must be repaid with interest, although federal loans often offer income-driven repayment and other protections that can ease the long-term burden.

Why has student loan debt become such a concern in the United States?

Student loan debt has grown because tuition costs have risen faster than wages, and more students rely on borrowing to cover the gap. As of the mid‑2020s, Americans owed more than a trillion dollars in federal student loans, and many borrowers struggle with repayment, especially if they did not complete a degree or earn lower-than-expected incomes. This has raised worries about delayed milestones such as homeownership and family formation, and has led policymakers to examine repayment plans, forgiveness options, and college accountability measures.

What barriers do first-generation college students commonly face, and what helps them succeed?

First-generation college students, whose parents did not complete a four-year degree, are more likely to face financial strain, unfamiliarity with college processes, and a sense of not belonging on campus. These factors contribute to lower completion rates compared with peers whose parents have degrees. Evidence shows that structured advising, bridge programs, learning communities, emergency financial aid, and clear information about requirements and supports can significantly improve first-generation students’ persistence and graduation outcomes.

How do community colleges differ from universities, and who are they best suited for?

Community colleges typically offer two-year associate degrees, certificates, and workforce training, often with open admissions and lower tuition than four-year universities. They are well suited for students seeking a more affordable start to a bachelor’s degree through transfer pathways, adults returning to education, and those focused on career and technical programs that lead directly to local jobs. Universities generally offer four-year and graduate degrees, more extensive research activities, and a wider range of academic majors, but they usually have higher costs and more selective admissions.

Is a vocational or technical program a worthwhile alternative to a traditional four-year degree?

Vocational and technical programs can be a strong option for people who prefer hands-on learning or want to enter specific trades or technical fields relatively quickly. In many countries, graduates of high-quality career and technical programs in areas like health care, advanced manufacturing, and information technology can earn wages comparable to or higher than some bachelor’s degree holders. Outcomes vary widely by field and program quality, so students are encouraged to compare local labor market data, completion rates, and job placement statistics before enrolling.

How does higher education influence communities and economies beyond individual earnings?

Higher education contributes to broader social and economic benefits, including higher tax revenues, lower reliance on public assistance, and increased civic participation such as voting and volunteering. Regions with higher shares of college-educated residents tend to attract more innovative firms, experience faster productivity growth, and show better health outcomes. These spillover effects mean that investments in colleges and universities can strengthen local economies and improve quality of life even for people who do not personally hold a degree.