What factors contribute to high college graduation rates?

I've noticed that many schools advertise their graduation rates, and of course I'd love to graduate in four years. I was wondering, what contributes to a high graduation rate? Is it the academic support, the student culture, or something else?

Graduation rates can be influenced by a multitude of factors, and it's important to consider that what works for one school or student may not work for another. However, there are several common contributors to high graduation rates:

1. Quality of Academic Support: This includes access to academic advising, tutoring services, study groups, learning centers, and other resources that aid in academic success. Schools with robust support systems often have higher graduation rates because these resources can help students stay on track and overcome academic hurdles.

2. Retention Efforts: This aspect is related to how much a school invests in keeping students enrolled until they graduate. This could include initiatives such as first-year experience programs, mentorship programs, or mid-term progress reports to identify students who may be struggling early on.

3. Student Engagement: A strong sense of community and belonging can influence a student's desire to stay at a school. Schools that foster engagement through extracurricular activities, clubs, sports, and campus events often see better retention and graduation rates as students feel more connected to their school environment.

4. Financial Support: For many students, being able to afford tuition is a crucial part of staying in school and graduating on time. Schools with robust financial aid programs or lower tuition costs can often boast higher graduation rates.

5. Selection Process: Some colleges and universities have selective admissions processes that screen for students who are likely to succeed in a university setting. Schools with rigorous application processes often accept students who are academically prepared and motivated, which can lead to higher graduation rates.

6. Curriculum and Degree Requirements: Clear, structured pathways to a degree can help students stay on track to graduate within four years. Some schools create academic maps or offer degree planning tools to help students track their course progress and ensure they're meeting all requirements.

Again, it's important to remember that what works for one school or student may not work for another. When selecting a school, consider your own needs and how the school's resources, culture, financial aid, selection process, and curriculum align with them.