Study shows DSST graduates excel in college, careers and financial stability
At DSST Public Schools, a diploma is just the beginning of a journey toward lasting success. The mission goes beyond academic achievement—it's about preparing students for a future of opportunity. A recent study by the Charter School Growth Fund reveals just how far DSST students go to turn their dreams into reality, with data that showcases the network’s unique ability to prepare students for both college and career success.
A track record of success
The results from the CSGF study are clear: DSST alumni aren’t just succeeding—they’re thriving. More than half of DSST graduates (53%) report feeling financially stable—8 percentage points above the survey average. And when it comes to career satisfaction, 60% of DSST alumni say they’re thriving in their careers, a remarkable 17 percentage points higher than the average.
One DSST quoted in the study said, “If it weren’t for DSST and every person there, I wouldn’t be getting a doctorate in neuroscience right now.”
A head start on career readiness
At DSST, career preparation begins long before graduation day. From middle school coding clubs to high school courses in Cybersecurity, CubeSat Aerospace Engineering, financial literacy and more, students are exposed to hands-on learning and real-world applications of STEM concepts.
Over 60% of DSST students complete internships that align with their career interests, giving them a distinct advantage as they enter the workforce or continue their education.
Another student noted that “encouragement and support for underrepresented persons in STEM, allowing students to find support from mentors, and [having students] pursue internships and other opportunities to grow their skills” is what attributed to this advantage.
By the time they graduate, DSST students are not just ready for college—they’re ready for the world.
“The truth is, DSST made me want to learn,” said yet another alum. “I want to go to veterinary school because I want to know everything medically about any species that walks in my clinic.”
These stories aren’t outliers– they are the norm– due to DSST’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence and career preparation.
Achieving college and career success
DSST graduates have an exceptional track record when it comes to college readiness: 100% of DSST alumni have been accepted to college or a postsecondary program.
On average, each DSST student receives seven college acceptances and earns about $2.5 million in scholarships per school. But the DSST commitment doesn’t just start in 9th grade. With personalized college counseling starting in ninth grade, DSST students have the tools they need to make informed decisions about their futures, ensuring they have the support they need every step of the way.
Building confidence in STEM careers
One of the standout features of DSST’s success is its focus on STEM education, especially for underrepresented students.
"We’re fighting every message out there that says few STEM professionals are Black or Latino," says DSST leadership. "Here, students build the confidence to say, ‘I am STEM.’ It is a gateway to college and strong careers."
In fact, 50% of DSST seniors earned a STEM certificate last year, providing them with both valuable credentials and an enhanced sense of identity that will serve them well in college and beyond.
As one graduate put it, “I’ve appreciated the encouragement and opportunity to find mentors and internships to develop my skills as an underrepresented minority in STEM.”
These kinds of experiences shape DSST students into leaders in their fields.
The future is bright for DSST graduates
DSST Public Schools is about more than just preparing students to graduate high school—it’s about setting them up for a lifetime of success in college and beyond. DSST graduates are thriving in their careers, financially stable, and well on their way to achieving their goals, as shown in the study.
Through a commitment to academic excellence, career readiness, and equity, DSST ensures its students are equipped not only to succeed but also to lead in their communities and careers.