Average Age for College Graduation?

I've been thinking about academics and timing a lot lately. Realistically, how old are most folks when they graduate college? I'm just trying to get a sense of what's normal, or if there even is a 'normal'. Thanks!

The "traditional" timeline for finishing a bachelor's degree is around 22 years old since many students typically start their college education immediately after high school (around 18 years old) and complete a four-year degree. However, this is by no means a hard and fast standard as everyone's educational journey is unique and shaped by a multitude of factors.

Many students may take a gap year before beginning college, delay enrollment due to financial obligations, or enroll part-time, which will naturally extend their graduation timeline. Others might accelerate their studies and graduate a bit early. Also, those who transfer from a community college to a four-year institution may be slightly older upon graduation.

In fact, according to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average age of a college graduate is closer to 26 years old due to these various factors. So remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to your question, and it's quite common for students to graduate in their mid-to-late twenties, and beyond. It's more about the value of the education you're receiving and how it helps you meet your personal and professional goals.