10,000 Degrees® is the leading, equity-focused scholarship provider and college success nonprofit in California. Since 1981, we’ve helped more than 20,000 students from low-income backgrounds achieve their college dreams, and now reach more than 12,000 students and their families each year.
The pandemic has multiplied the obstacles and uncertainty our students face. The opportunity gap has not narrowed but grown. Educational inequities and racial injustices continue to prevail. The demand for our support and resources has never been greater.
Through it all, our commitment to our students has never wavered. 10,000 Degrees is poised to meet these challenges today, and we have a bold vision: A world where educational equity is the norm, and where all students can realize their full potential and graduate from college.
Our goal for 2026 is to significantly expand the number of students and regions we serve while maintaining the high standard of student outcomes and college graduation rates. We know we can do it, with your support.
10,000 Degrees support is a game-changer for the thousands of students from low-income backgrounds lacking college assistance across California. Nearly half of California high school graduates do not complete the basic college prep curriculum, and college enrollment is plummeting nationwide—especially among students of color and from low-income communities. The pandemic is only exacerbating educational inequities.
Education is the foundation of a just and equitable society. Now, more than ever, postsecondary education is essential. That’s why what we do at 10,000 Degrees is so critical. We keep students engaged and connected to their education and graduating at rates much higher than their peers across the country.
During the next five years, 10,000 Degrees will significantly and efficiently expand, nearly doubling the number of students and families from low-income backgrounds that we serve annually while maintaining our high standard of student outcomes and college graduation rates.
80%+ of our four-year college students earn bachelor’s degrees
31% of their peers nationally