The University of Dayton was recognized as a national leader among high-graduation-rate colleges and universities working to improve access and success for lower-income students. UD is the only "High-Flier" in Ohio, and the only Catholic institution in the country to earn the recognition from Bloomberg Philanthropies and the higher-education coalition known as the American Talent Initiative. Just 28 colleges and universities nationwide are “High-Fliers” for making progress on enrolling and graduating lower-income students.

UD has made considerable investments in financial aid and dedicated programs, including Flyer Promise Scholars and UD Sinclair Academy, to support community college transfer students, students who are the first in their families to pursue a four-year degree, and students from lower-income families.