The Path to Graduation: Factors Predicting On-Time Graduation Rates

Abstract

This study uses an integrative persistence model to examine college students' expected time-to-degree as a function of sociological and economic factors. The data used in this study are from the 2010 Ohio Student Financial Wellness Survey (SFWS), a web-based survey of undergraduate college students. Of the students surveyed, 25% indicated that they plan to take longer than 4 years to complete their undergraduate degree. Findings from the study indicate college environment and personal financial characteristics are important factors in determining time-to-degree. Students who overspend, have a car loan, credit cards, or high debt, and those who feel stress from their finances are more likely to take longer than 4 years. Students are more likely to finish in 4 years or less if they live or work on campus, have a high GPA, or have met with a financial counselor or advisor. Implications for higher education administrators and parents are discussed.

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