Do Students Stay? The Freshman Retention Rate
The freshman retention rate is a simple but powerful metric: it's the percentage of a school's first-time, first-year undergraduate students who continue at that school the next year. A high retention rate is a strong signal that the college is meeting its students' expectations.
Why Does Retention Rate Matter?
A high retention rate suggests that a college provides a positive and supportive environment for its students. It indicates that:
- Students are academically challenged and supported.
- The social environment is a good fit.
- Financial aid is adequate.
- Students are generally happy and satisfied with their experience.
Conversely, a low retention rate can be a red flag, suggesting that a significant number of students are unhappy for some reason and choose to transfer or drop out.
Freshman Retention Rate at St. Thomas University
56.6%
This means that out of every 100 first-year students at St. Thomas University, 56.6% chose to return for their sophomore year.
Interpreting the Numbers
- Above 95%: Exceptional. This is characteristic of the nation's most elite and well-resourced universities.
- 85% - 95%: Very good. Indicates high student satisfaction.
- 70% - 85%: Good/Average. Common for many public and private universities.
- Below 70%: A potential cause for concern. It's worth investigating why a large percentage of students do not return.