Pathways to Academic Success in Higher Education examines two major challenges facing the nation. The first is preparing high school students for college, a reform that has been tackled largely through state policy initiatives. The second is creating new pathways to academic success for underrepresented students in higher education, a challenge that must be addressed within a decentralized system of higher education. Part one: Presents and documents key findings from research on K-12 education policy. Part two: Provides action research using a state data system to inform colleges and universities. Part three: Focuses on the future of policy and organizational initiatives to improve opportunity. This book integrates studies conducted over nearly a decade and offers guidance on how best to understand and promote retention and success once students have gained access.