Falling Behind, Catching Up: Data Insights on Delayed Graduation

Session Abstract: Students who enter a university as First-Time-in-College (FTIC) students typically anticipate graduating within four years. Yet, some require an additional Fall term to complete their degree requirements. This exploratory study examines factors that distinguish students who graduate on time from those who extend into a fifth Fall term. Findings indicate that students needing an extra term not only fall behind in planning but also encounter greater challenges in successfully earning attempted credits. By highlighting patterns in academic performance and planning, this study provides a foundation for future research to identify critical tipping points when students begin to fall off track, offering insights for targeted interventions that promote timely graduation.

Keywords: 1. Graduation
2. Risk Factors
3. Decision Support
4. Student Success
5. Data Driven