Q: What is the achievement gap?

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A: In the United States, the achievement gap is observed disparities in educational outcomes (and in return, income and career outcomes) between subgroups of students that are usually defined by race, gender, and socioeconomic status.

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Q: Why can't those who are affected by the achievement gap get ahead by "working harder"?

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A: Students from underprivileged or low-income communities often don't have access to tutors, college consultants, test prep materials, AP and IB classes, technological resources, college preparatory programs in high school, and much more. These students may also lack emotional or financial support in pursuing higher education because of obligations to begin working immediately after high school to support their families. First-generation students also face a significant disadvantage--They won't be able to enlist the help of their families when applying to college, and are forced to navigate the process entirely on their own. All of these factors make the college admissions process a lot more overwhelming and challenging for underprivileged communities.

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