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National Higher Education Day

Celebrate National Higher Education Day by recognizing the impact and importance of a college education - invest in your future today!

Sunday

June 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEJune 6

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYSchool

SUBCATEGORYAcademic

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Today is the perfect time to celebrate National Higher Education Day on June 6! This day was created in 2020 as a way to recognize and honor the importance of higher education in our lives. It's also an opportunity for us to reflect on how far we've come since the first universities were established centuries ago and see how much progress has been made throughout history.

TIMELINE

National Higher Education Day Timeline

Harvard University Founded

The first higher education institution in the United States, Harvard University, was founded, marking the beginning of higher education in America.

Morrill Act Signed

President Abraham Lincoln signed the Morrill Act, establishing land grant colleges and significantly expanding access to higher education.

G.I. Bill Enacted

The G.I. Bill was enacted, offering veterans funds for college and vocational education, leading to a significant increase in college attendance.

Higher Education Act Passed

President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Higher Education Act, increasing federal funding for universities and providing financial aid to students.

Introduction of Online Degrees

The advent of online education made higher education more accessible to people worldwide - the University of Phoenix became one of the first to offer an online degree.

National Higher Education Day Initiated

A day dedicated to recognizing and honoring the impact and importance of higher education, National Higher Education Day was officially initiated.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Higher Education Day

Visit a college campus

Take a day to explore a college campus nearby and get to know what higher education has to offer. From the classrooms and libraries, to the dorms and student centers, you can get a feel for what life might be like if you attend.

ATTEND

Attend a lecture

Check out what your local university is hosting in terms of lectures or seminars and go listen in. You'll find some of the most interesting topics discussed by some of the smartest people.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer at a school

Find an elementary, middle or high school in your area that could use your help. Whether it's mentoring, helping with special projects or reading with students, your time and effort will be appreciated.

WRITE

Write thank you letters

Take some time to write thank you letters to teachers and mentors who helped you on your journey towards higher education. Let them know how much they mean to you and how they have helped shape you into the person you are today.

DONATE

Donate to a scholarship fund

Show your support for higher education by donating to a scholarship fund at your alma mater or other local universities. Your donation will help many students pursue their dreams of getting a college degree.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Higher Education Day is Important

Higher education helps build connections

One of the best ways to make important business connections is by attending higher educational institutions. You can develop lasting relationships with faculty members who may be able to act as mentors and provide invaluable advice throughout your career. You may also form lasting relationships with classmates who can provide referrals, networking opportunities, and moral support in times of need.

Higher education increases earning potential

Having a college degree or higher education can open many doors in terms of employment and salary. In general, people who have a higher level of education tend to earn more than those with less educational attainment. This leads to increased financial stability and improved quality of life for you and your family.

Higher education broadens personal knowledge

Education helps broaden our horizons by teaching us new subjects, introducing us to different cultures, and opening our eyes to new possibilities. Attending college or obtaining a higher degree will help give you an enriched understanding of the world around you, which can lead to a greater appreciation for diversity and tolerance.

Related holidays

National Scholarship Month

It's National Scholarship Month - the perfect time to apply for scholarships and make your academic dreams a reality! Don't miss out on this opportunity.