Educational Divides Among U.S. Religious Groups Revealed

Pew Study Finds Stark Contrasts in College Attainment Across Faiths

Apr. 12, 2026 at 9:15am

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A bold, abstract silkscreen print featuring a repeated pattern of colorful college textbooks, conceptually representing the educational disparities among religious communities in the United States.This vibrant pop art illustration captures the educational divides between religious groups in America, a complex issue that requires further study and action.Today in Nashville

A recent Pew Research Center study has uncovered significant educational disparities among religious groups in the United States. The findings show that while some religious followers, such as Hindus and Jewish Americans, have remarkably high college graduation rates, others, including certain evangelical Protestant and historically Black Protestant denominations, lag behind the national average. The study sheds light on the complex relationship between religion and academic achievement in America.

Why it matters

These insights into the educational attainment of different religious communities are important for understanding broader social and demographic trends. As the religious landscape in the U.S. continues to evolve, with declining Christianity and a growing number of religiously unaffiliated individuals, the implications for educational equity and opportunity will be crucial to monitor and address through policy and community initiatives.

The details

The Pew study found that around 70% of Hindus and 65% of Jewish Americans hold a bachelor's degree or higher, far exceeding the national average of 35%. In contrast, evangelical Protestant groups like the Assemblies of God have a college graduation rate of only 19%, while mainline Protestant denominations such as the Episcopal Church boast a 67% rate. Historically Black Protestant churches also show wide disparities, with the National Baptist Convention USA at 24% and the Church of God in Christ at 10%.

  • The Pew Research Center study was published in April 2026.

The players

Pew Research Center

A nonpartisan American think tank that provides information on social issues, public opinion, and demographic trends shaping the United States.

Hindus

A religious group that makes up less than 1% of the U.S. population but has one of the highest college graduation rates at around 70%.

Jewish Americans

A religious group that makes up about 1.7% of the U.S. population and has a college graduation rate of around 65%.

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What’s next

As the religious landscape continues to evolve, further research will be needed to understand the underlying factors contributing to these educational disparities among religious groups. Policymakers and community leaders will need to consider these insights when developing initiatives to promote educational equity and opportunity for all Americans.

The takeaway

The Pew study highlights the surprising educational divides among religious groups in the United States, with some faiths far outpacing the national average in college attainment while others struggle. These findings underscore the need to address the complex relationship between religion and academic achievement in order to ensure equal access to higher education for all Americans.