What is the meaning of educational attainment?

Educational attainment is a term used in reference to the highest level of education an individual has received. It does not take educational proficiency, quality or grades into account.

Educational attainment details all levels of educational completion. High school, secondary school and college participation are recorded, as well as any level of degrees obtained. Information is typically collected on individuals 15 years of age and older.

Educational attainment information is collected in the U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey and Current Population Survey. This data is collected to understand trends in educational achievement, as well as to gather information on high school dropout rates.