California is home to the California State University (CSU) and the University of California (UC), which educate thousands of students every year and help them build strong futures for themselves and their communities. CSU and UC require that high school students complete certain courses, known as A-G courses, to be eligible for admission.
However, California high school students do not have an equal opportunity to successfully fulfill this requirement on their pathways to higher education. In 2020-21, many student groups graduated high school without completing the A-G pathway at rates that were higher than the state average of 48%. These groups include students with disabilities, English language learners, students experiencing homelessness, and students of color.
Policymakers can improve CSU and UC access by reforming course requirements so that all students have an equitable chance to pursue higher education, irrespective of their socioeconomic backgrounds.
