Student persistence level in US declines

A new study from the US-based National Student Clearinghouse Research Center has found that the overall persistence rate for first-time college students—the percentage of students who return to college for their second year—has declined from 69.9% in 2009 to 68.7% in 2012. Meanwhile, the retention rate—the percentage of students who return to the same institution for their second year—has remained steady at 58.2%. The figures indicate that a growing number of students are leaving PSE altogether. Persistence rates were lowest among traditional-age students. The persistence numbers are disappointing given that the data coincide with a major push on the part of policy makers and college leaders to improve retention rates in the US. Some speculate that economic recovery has contributed to students’ decisions to leave. Inside Higher Ed | Full Report