20+ Youngest College Graduate in as at 2024

Ever feel like you’re constantly playing catch-up in school? Textbooks piling up, classmates stressing about exams – it can feel like everyone else is way ahead. But what if we told you there are some super brainiacs who were graduating college before most of us were even in high school?

Yep, you read that right! This article is all about amazing young geniuses who aced their way through school and became college graduates at an unbelievably young age. We’re talking about teenagers, or even younger, walking across the graduation stage with a diploma in hand.

In this article, we’ll explore the stories of more than 20 of these young scholars, from all over the world. You’ll get to learn a little bit about their journeys and what makes them tick. Maybe it’ll even inspire you to tap into your own inner genius.

What was the youngest age to go to college?
Youngest College Graduates
FAQs
Conclusion
References
Recommendations

What was the youngest age to go to college?

The youngest recorded age for a college graduate belongs to Michael Kearney. He achieved this incredible feat in 1994 at the tender age of 10 years and 4 months! This makes him a Guinness World Record holder.

Kearney was homeschooled and demonstrated exceptional academic abilities from a young age. He started reading at 10 months old, completed high school in just one year at the age of 6, and then went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in anthropology from the University of South Alabama.

His story highlights the potential for extraordinary academic achievement when coupled with a supportive learning environment.

Read: How Old Are You When You Graduate College (College Survey)

Youngest College Graduates

Here are the youngest persons to graduate college:

#1. Michael Kearney

Michael Kearney, born in 1984, obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Anthropology from the University of South Alabama in 1994. His ten-year and four-month graduation set a record that remains unmatched to this day.

#2. Laurent Simons

Laurent Simons, born in December 2009, achieved college graduation at the age of 11 in 2021. He gained fame at the age of nine and aimed to surpass the record set by Michael Kearney over 37 years ago.

#3. Moshe Kai Cavalin

Moshe Kai Cavalin, born in 2009, completed an Associate’s degree in Mathematics from the East Los Angeles Community College at 11. He continued his academic journey at UCLA, obtaining a bachelor’s degree in mathematics at 15.

#4. Sho Yano

Sho Yano, born in 1990, graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Loyola University Chicago at the age of 12 in 2003. He pursued further studies in medicine at the University of Chicago’s Pritzker School of Medicine, earning an MD by age 21.

#5. Gregory Robert Smith

Gregory Robert Smith, born in June 1989, completed his Bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Randolph-Macon College at the age of 13 in 2003. He went on to earn a Master’s degree in Mathematics from the University of Virginia at the age of 16.

Also, read: Masters or Master’s Degree?: Which Is It?

#6. Karl Witte

Born in 1800, Karl Witte demonstrated exceptional linguistic skills at a young age, mastering Greek, Latin, Italian, French, and German by the age of 9. He obtained a doctorate in philosophy from the University of Giessen at 23, making him the world’s youngest doctorate recipient.

#7. Alia Sabur

Alia Sabur, born in 1989, graduated with a bachelor’s degree in applied mathematics from Stony Brook University at 14 in 2003. She received a master’s in materials science and engineering from Drexel University at 17.

#8. Eugenie Carys de Silva

Eugenie Carys de Silva, born in 1998, achieved a bachelor’s degree in Intelligence Analysis from American Military University at 14 in 2013. She went on to pursue a Ph.D. in Politics from the University of Leicester, completing it by age 15.

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#9. Carson Huey-You

Carson Huey-You, born in July 2002, graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Physics from Texas Christian University at 14 in 2017. He continued his studies and obtained a master’s degree in the same discipline two years later.

Erik Demaine Erik Demaine, born in 1981, completed his Bachelor’s in Philosophy from Dalhousie University at 14 in 1995. He later obtained his Ph.D. from the University of Waterloo and currently serves as a faculty member at MIT.

#10. Kathleen Holtz

Kathleen Holtz, born in 1989, graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Philosophy from California State University, Los Angeles, at the age of 15 in 2004. At 18, she became the youngest lawyer in the country after passing California’s bar exam.

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#11. Akshay Venkatesh

Akshay Venkatesh, born in 1982, is a renowned mathematician from Australia. He graduated from the University of Western Australia at 15 and soon became the youngest student to have a first class in pure mathematics. Before 20, Akshay completed his Ph.D. from Princeton University and got a post-doctoral position at MIT.

Ruth Lawrence

Born in 1971, Ruth Lawrence is a British mathematician who graduated from the University of Oxford at 13. She went on to earn a Ph.D. in mathematics and pursued an academic career.

#13. Gregory Smith

Gregory Smith, born in 1990, graduated from Randolph-Macon College in Virginia with a Bachelor’s degree in mathematics at age 10. He became widely known as a child prodigy and later pursued an academic career.

#14. Colin Carlson

Colin Carlson, born in 1998, graduated from the University of Connecticut with a Bachelor’s degree in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at 14. He has since become a prominent scientist and advocate for environmental conservation.

You should also read: 6 Careers You Can Pursue With a Bachelor’s in Biology

#15. Tristan Pang

Tristan Pang, born in 2000, graduated from the University of Auckland in New Zealand with a Bachelor’s in Mathematics at 13. He is known for his exceptional mathematical abilities and has participated in various international math competitions.

#16. Sophie Edwards

Sophie Edwards, born in 1998, earned a Bachelor’s degree in Egyptology from the University of Liverpool at the age of 12. She developed a passion for ancient history and archaeology at a young age and continued pursuing her academic interests.

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#17. Tanishq Abraham

Tanishq Abraham, born in 2003, graduated from American River College in California with three associate degrees in math, science, and foreign language studies at 11. He is known for his exceptional intellect and has been recognized for his achievements in multiple fields.

#18. Alma Deutscher

Alma Deutscher, born in 2005, graduated from the University of Oxford with a Bachelor’s degree in composition at 12. She is a musical prodigy and has gained international recognition for her designs and performances.

#19. Tony Hansberry II

Tony Hansberry II, born in 1994, graduated from the University of Florida with a Bachelor’s in Neurobiology at 14. He is known for his groundbreaking research on surgical techniques and has been widely recognized for his contributions to the medical field.

You should also read: The 10 Easiest University Degrees in the UK | 2024 Rankings

#20. March Tian Boedihardjo

March Tian Boedihardjo, born in 1997, graduated from the University of Cambridge with a Bachelor’s in Mathematics at 16. He is known for his mathematical prowess and has significantly contributed to pure mathematics.

You should also read: Top 10 Hardest University Degrees in the UK | 2024 Ranking

FAQs

What criteria were used to determine the youngest college graduates on this list?

The criteria for selecting the youngest college graduates on this list were based on their age at the time of graduation and the completion of a recognized college degree. The individuals featured in the article have achieved their degrees at a remarkably young age compared to the average college graduate.

How could these young college graduates complete their degrees at such a young age?

The young college graduates featured on this list have demonstrated exceptional intellect, dedication, and study commitment. Many started their educational journey early, engaging in accelerated learning programs, online courses, and dual enrollment options that allowed them to earn college credits while still in high school.

What fields of study do these young college graduates specialize in?

The featured young college graduates come from diverse fields of study. Some have focused on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), while others have pursued degrees in business, humanities, social sciences, and the arts. Their areas of specialization reflect their interests, passions, and career aspirations.

What are some notable accomplishments of these young college graduates?

The accomplishments of these young college graduates are genuinely remarkable. Many have published research papers in prestigious academic journals, received prestigious scholarships or grants, launched successful startups or social initiatives, and received recognition and awards for their academic achievements.

How can these young college graduates inspire and influence others?

The stories of these young college graduates serve as a powerful source of inspiration for aspiring students and individuals of all ages. By showcasing their extraordinary achievements, this list encourages others to dream big, set ambitious goals, and pursue their passions relentlessly.

Conclusion

From groundbreaking research to pioneering entrepreneurship, these college graduates have defied expectations and proven that age is no barrier to success. Their stories inspire all, encouraging us to push our boundaries, strive for excellence, and pursue our passions relentlessly.

As we celebrate the accomplishments of these outstanding individuals, we are reminded of the immense potential and limitless possibilities within each of us.