The education levels of the estimated 44 million immigrants in the United States are on the rise, according to 2016 polling data from the Pew Research Center.
Why it matters: Immigrants are nearly just as likely to hold bachelor's and postgraduate degrees as U.S.-born citizens.
By the numbers: In 2016, 30% of immigrants 25 years and older hold bachelor's degrees or higher, while 31.6% of U.S. born citizens are likely to hold the same education. In 1980 only 15.7% of immigrants held a bachelor's degree or higher.
The big picture: Global education levels are on the rise, and high-skilled immigrant workers are moving to the United States through the government's H-1B visa and Optional Practical Training programs.
