Dartmouth Graduation Rate: What's the deal?

Hey there everyone. I’m thinking about applying to Dartmouth, and I’ve been trying to understand what the graduation rate really means. Can anyone shed some light on what contributes to the graduation rate at Dartmouth? Is it a reflection of the academic rigor, or does it have more to do with other factors? Thanks in advance!

Graduation rates at colleges, including Dartmouth, typically refer to the percentage of students who complete their degree within a certain time frame. For example, a typical time frame for a bachelor's degree would be four years, although this can vary.

Factors that contribute to graduation rates include academic rigor, as you mentioned, but there are other elements at play as well. Student support services, such as academic advising, mental health services, and retention programs, play a significant role in ensuring that students graduate on time. Additionally, a college's student demographic can impact graduation rates. For instance, first-generation college students or students from low-income backgrounds might face additional challenges that could impact their ability to graduate in four years, though many schools, including Dartmouth, have expansive resources to support these students.

Dartmouth in particular has a high graduation rate, which suggests that the majority of their students find the academic and non-academic support they need to succeed and graduate on time. However, it's also important to recognize the challenging nature of its academic programs and the degree to which students need to be self-motivated and academically prepared to thrive there.

Remember, it's always advisable to investigate further about what these statistical measures mean for your unique situation, and it could be beneficial to reach out to the admissions office for more specific information about student retention and support resources. Good luck with your college process!