The 2024 freshman class is among the most diverse in several ways, a new report has found. The report, “Understanding the Entering Class of 2024: Key Insights from The CIRP Freshman Survey 2024,” examines the backgrounds, concerns and expectations of first-year students.
Based on responses from over 24,000 students at 55 colleges and universities, the survey—conducted by the Higher Education Research Institute at UCLA in partnership with the American Council on Education—highlights trends in diversity, academic preparedness, financial concerns and well-being. The findings offer insights to help higher education leaders better support student success.
Diversity and student demographics in the 2024 freshman class
The freshman class of 2024 is among the most diverse yet, states the report. In terms of race and ethnicity, 50.8% of students identified as White, 14.8% as multiracial, 14.6% as Asian/Pacific Islander, 11% as Hispanic or Latino and 7.7% as Black or African American. Language diversity is also evident, with 9.7% of students reporting that English is not their primary language. The class represents a range of sexual orientations, with 82.3% identifying as heterosexual, 8.5% as bisexual, 2.2% as queer, 1.9% as lesbian and 1.3% as gay.
Socioeconomic factors further highlight the diversity of the freshman class. About 19% of students were classified as low-income, while 12.4% were first-generation college students, reflecting the growing presence of students who may face unique challenges in navigating higher education.
Gaps in academic preparedness among incoming freshmen
Most students took three years of math in high school but access to advanced coursework varied:
- 84.1% of higher-income students took precalculus or trigonometry, compared to 67% of low-income students.
- 45.1% of higher-income students took calculus, compared to 31.9% of low-income students.
Financial concerns contribute to students’ worries
- 56.4% of all students expressed concern about affording college, with Hispanic or Latino (81.4%) and Black or African American (69.6%) students most affected.
- Pell Grants were a key financial aid source for Hispanic or Latino (59.4%) and Black or African American (49.5%) students.
Mental health a priority for 2024 freshman class
Mental health concerns were significant, with about 51% of women and 72% of nonbinary, genderqueer or gender-nonconforming students frequently feeling overwhelmed in the past year. About 84% of nonbinary students anticipated seeking counseling in college, compared to an approximate 63% of women and 48% of men, according to the report.
“Women consistently reported more emotional health challenges than men, and students who identified outside the gender binary faced additional difficulties related to identity, belonging and well-being,” the report stated.
College leaders can support student success
The report suggests that institutions can better support students through several key initiatives. Expanding access to advanced coursework can help bridge academic gaps. Enhancing financial aid programs supports underrepresented students, making higher education more accessible and equitable.
Strengthening mental health resources is another critical focus. More comprehensive support systems can help students manage stress and improve well-being.
Fostering diversity and inclusion initiatives ensures students from all backgrounds feel supported and valued, according to the report. Encouraging civic engagement through student-led activism and community involvement also helps students develop leadership skills and make meaningful contributions.
By adopting these strategies, institutions can promote equity, inclusion, and well-being, ensuring all students have the resources to succeed.
