Enhancing college student retention and graduation rates: key findings from a five-year comprehensive approach

Abstract

A study at a small, private, not-for-profit university examined the impact of innovative student needs identification, academic support, guidance, financial services, and other interventions on college student academic outcomes over a five-year period. Results revealed that subgroups of ‘at-risk’ students who received additional academic support earned higher GPAs, and their graduation rates increased by 55%–60%. The study underscores the effectiveness of these interventions in enhancing student outcomes.