Graduation Rates

Hey there! I'm currently researching colleges and I'm curious about graduation rates. When I'm comparing schools, should I look for the percentage of students who graduate or the absolute number of graduates? What's more important?

Hello! When comparing graduation rates between colleges, it's more meaningful to focus on the percentage of students who graduate rather than the absolute number of graduates. The percentage gives you a better sense of how successful the school is at helping students complete their degrees, as it takes into account the size of the student population.

A high graduation rate indicates that the college offers strong academic support, resources, and a conducive environment for students to succeed. It can also signal that the school's administration is effectively managing student retention and addressing potential dropout issues.

Keep in mind that graduation rates may vary depending on the type of institution (public vs. private) and whether it's a four-year or two-year college. Additionally, it's helpful to look at the graduation rates within the context of other factors, such as student demographics, available resources, and the specific programs or majors you're interested in. This will give you a more comprehensive understanding of a school's performance and help you make a more informed decision about which college best meets your needs and preferences.