Students who have dropped out of college cite financial issues as a major barrier to re-enrolling.
The cost of pursuing higher education continues to be a significant challenge for student retention and success, as more than half of individuals with some college experience but no degree are unable to return to school due to financial constraints.
New data from StraighterLine and UPCEA, an online and professional education association, reveals that 58 percent of students who have stopped out disagree that their current financial situation would allow them to afford tuition and other educational expenses. However, among those who were previously enrolled in a degree program, the primary motivation to re-enroll is to improve their salary (53 percent).
This contrast highlights a critical issue: many individuals aspire to pursue higher education to enhance their earning potential, but are hindered by the increasingly high cost of tuition.
Survey respondents indicated that they are academically and mentally prepared to handle college coursework, but financial constraints are preventing them from returning to school. Those who left their institutions were less likely to view higher education as trustworthy and essential for their future goals.
The survey was conducted from June 7 to 11, 2024, and included responses from 1,018 former students.
Across the United States, there are 36.8 million Americans who have started some form of postsecondary education but did not complete a degree or credential. This number increased by 2.3 million students from January 2021 to July 2022 alone, according to data from the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center.
As colleges and universities seek to attract students and address the impending decline in the college-age population, targeting individuals who have stopped out of their education presents an opportunity to enroll highly motivated learners. For institutions focused on retention, the population of students with some college experience but no degree presents a clear picture of the challenges and barriers to student success.
During the 2022–23 academic year, the majority of students who re-enrolled were pursuing an associate degree (52 percent), while those who had previously started a bachelor’s degree program were mostly returning to pursue their four-year degree (57 percent).
The survey asked students to consider various factors related to their readiness for college, including academic preparation, mental resilience, flexibility, learning environment, financial readiness, and time management skills.
Most respondents agreed that they possess essential academic skills and are proficient in using technology for research and coursework. They also felt adaptable, resilient in the face of obstacles, and capable of coping with stress and challenges.
Over half of the stopped-out students disagreed that their current financial situation would allow them to afford the costs associated with their education, while only 22 percent agreed.
Building trust and support among students is crucial, as those who viewed colleges and universities as trustworthy or supportive were more likely to consider re-enrolling. Institutions should focus on establishing trust with prospective students and addressing their interests and needs to make them feel valued and understood.
Highlighting post-graduation support services such as career counseling, internships, and professional development can also help students reach their goals. However, a report from Tyton Partners found that only one-third of stopped-out students were aware of career advising services at their college.
In general, students who started a certificate program were slightly more prepared to re-enroll compared to those who were in a degree program. The survey results indicate that students who were mentally prepared to handle challenges, had positive views of higher education institutions, and recognized the value of a degree or certificate were more likely to consider returning to school.
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