Understanding the average graduation rate for colleges

As I'm evaluating potential colleges, I'm trying to understand the importance of graduation rates. What is considered an average graduation rate for colleges these days, and should this be a significant factor in my decision? Does a higher rate suggest a better school, or should I be considering other aspects more heavily? I'd appreciate any advice or experiences related to how graduation rates have factored into your college decisions.

From an admissions counselor's perspective, graduation rates are an important factor to consider while comparing potential colleges because they can give you an idea about student success and satisfaction at the institution.

Generally, the national average for six-year graduation rates (which has become the standard measure) for full-time undergraduate students at four-year institutions is around 60%. However, many universities and colleges, especially those that are more selective, will have graduation rates well above this amount. For example, many Ivy League schools tend to have six-year graduation rates above 90%.

A higher graduation rate can suggest that the school does a solid job of providing the necessary academic and social support for their students to succeed and complete their degree within an expected timeframe. It can indicate that students are generally satisfied with their experience, feel a sense of belonging, and want to stick around to earn their degree.

However, while graduation rates are definitely relevant, they should be considered in conjunction with other aspects. Look at the institution's academic strengths, available majors, location, size, financial aid, and campus culture, among other factors.

For instance, if a school has a high graduation rate but does not offer strong programs in your areas of interest, or if the campus environment doesn't feel like a good fit for you, then that high graduation rate might not matter as much to your personal college experience.

Think about your goals, preferences, priorities, and values, and use those to guide your comparison and decision-making process. It helps to do thorough research, ask questions, and do virtual or in-person visits if possible to give you a firsthand experience of the campus culture.

Ensure that the college you choose lines up well with your specific needs and aspirations, rather than just focusing on one statistic like graduation rate. Careful, holistic decision-making can lead to a satisfying college experience and eventual success in your academic journey.