The number of students enrolled in Arizona’s public universities reached historic highs this fall. But just 30% of Arizona high school graduates completed a college degree or certificate program within six years. That's according to two new report from the Arizona Board of Regents.

ABOR release one report on fall enrollment and the other on postsecondary attainment. The increase in enrollment was largely shown among online programs.

In a written statement, ABOR Chair Fred DuVal said flatlined degree attainment numbers for Arizona residents is a growing concern. That’s because the state needs about 26,000 more bachelor’s degrees annually to support its economy.

While the number of low-income Arizona students attending college is on the rise, it still has not matched pre-pandemic highs. 

But universities did welcome the highest number of Pell-eligible students. Those grants are awarded only to undergraduate students with great financial need.