It is important to make sure that the student understands the program they are enrolling in, and that it fits the goals that they want to achieve.
How the Admission Process Can Increase Student Retention: Retention Starts in Admissions
The student retention journey begins long before a student sets foot in a classroom—it starts in the admissions process. By implementing strategic retention-focused practices at this stage, institutions can set students up for success from the outset. Here are key ways the admissions process can drive student retention:
Aligning Expectations
During admissions, it’s crucial to provide prospective students with a clear, realistic understanding of the academic programs, campus culture, and support services. When students have accurate expectations, they are more likely to feel confident in their decision and stay committed throughout their studies.
Personalized Admissions Experience
Tailoring the admissions process to meet the unique needs of each applicant fosters a sense of belonging. Personalized outreach, clear communication, and one-on-one support during admissions demonstrate that the institution values each student, increasing their likelihood of staying engaged after enrollment.
Identifying Students’ Goals and Challenges
The admissions process can serve as a valuable opportunity to identify a student’s personal goals and potential obstacles. By understanding the student's needs, the institution can proactively provide targeted resources, such as academic advising or counseling, to support student success and prevent dropout.
Early Engagement and Connection
Engaging students with the campus community early—through events, virtual tours, or student mentorship programs—helps build a sense of connection and belonging even before classes start. This early sense of community can enhance a student’s commitment and increase retention.
Admissions as a Resource Hub
Admissions counselors should act as resource hubs, connecting students to academic support, financial aid guidance, and student services. By helping students navigate potential challenges from the start, the admissions team plays a vital role in reducing the risk of attrition due to avoidable stressors like financial concerns or lack of preparation.
Fostering a Supportive Mindset
Admissions should promote a message of support and inclusivity. By emphasizing the availability of academic help, mentorship programs, and personal development opportunities, students enter their academic journey with a strong foundation and clear path to success, contributing to higher retention rates.
By focusing on retention from the admissions stage, institutions can foster a strong commitment to academic and personal success, paving the way for improved student retention and overall institutional success.
We can improve student retention through ensuring that students have a thorough idea of what it takes to be successful in the program up front.
I personally don't work in Admissions, however, I did learn some things that I can take back to our Admissions team.
The stand-out for me was understanding that the time spent during the admissions process and the amount of knowledge the students has about the program prior to starting can have a direct impact on retention. I have always thought this was the case, but it was just observational. For example noticing that students who were rushed in last minute did poorly in their first couple of weeks and ended up dropping out despite efforts from our faculty and staff. It was interesting to find that there is research and data to back up my hunch. Lots of great information in this module.
