Results from the Lumina Foundation-Gallup 2025 State of Higher Education Study found that despite rapid changes in the state of higher education, U.S. adult interest in obtaining a certificate or degree remains strong. Among adults surveyed, who are not currently enrolled in a program, 57% expressed interest in pursuing a degree or certification in the previous two years, up from a pandemic-era low of 44% in 2021.

More than two-thirds (68%) of those interested in pursuing a degree or certification had previously been enrolled in a program but dropped out for various reasons.

There is a significant difference along racialized lines regarding interest in pursuing a degree. Although around half (52%) of those who identified as White in the survey wish to pursue higher education, about two-thirds of respondents from other racial groups intend to do so. This includes 65% of those identified as Asian American or Hispanic and 63% of those identified as Black or African American.

Of those expressing interest in obtaining a higher degree, nearly a quarter (24%) would like to pursue an associate‘s degree, with 18% aiming to complete a bachelor’s degree and 16% interested in obtaining some form of industry certification.

If the conditions are right, interest in higher education is likely to yield dividends for colleges and universities, as 48% of respondents indicate they are either “likely” or “very likely” to enroll within the next five years.

The survey was conducted in October 2024, with the results recently released by Gallup. Additional findings from the survey, including its methodology, can be accessed here.