How old are most college students?

I have some friends who are starting college slightly later than the typical age, and I'm curious about how common this is across the country. Is there an 'average' age range for college students in the US? How much age diversity can one typically find at most colleges?

The 'average' age range for undergraduate college students in the US is generally between 18 and 22 years old. Most students start college immediately after graduating high school, typically at 18 years old, and complete their undergraduate program in four years. However, age diversity in college is becoming more common, as more students take gap years, attend community college before transferring to a four-year institution, or pursue non-traditional paths.

Many colleges now cater to non-traditional students, which includes those who are older than 22, by offering programs tailored to their needs. Some students start college later due to work, military service, or other personal reasons. In fact, about 38% of undergraduate students in the US are over 25 years old.

Age diversity varies among institutions, with community colleges, online schools, and large public universities usually having more age diversity than small private colleges or highly-selective institutions. However, it's important to note that statistics may vary depending on the specific campus or program.

Overall, while the majority of college students still fall into the traditional 18 to 22 age range, there is a growing number of non-traditional students attending college later in life. This can enhance the learning experience for everyone, as students bring different perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds to the classroom.