Nearly one in four first-year students doesn’t return for their second year of college. That’s the sobering takeaway from the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center’s latest report on student persistence. But behind that data lies an opportunity: to better understand when, how, and why students disengage — and to act earlier.
The challenge is urgent, but not unsolvable.
According to the data, 84 percent of students who enrolled in fall 2023 returned for the spring. But by the second fall, only 69 percent were still enrolled at their original institution. Among those most likely to leave were part-time students, adult learners, and historically underserved groups including Black, Hispanic, and Native American students. Since about half of the students are leaving in the first term, institutions can’t afford to wait for second-year numbers. The work begins now.
Peer-powered support is one of the most timely and effective levers institutions can pull.
Why Peer Tutoring Matters for Retention
- It’s relational. Academic support is important, but human connection is what keeps students engaged. Peer tutors meet students where they are, offering help that feels relatable and safe.
- It’s proactive. When tutoring is visible from day one (embedded in orientation sessions, study groups, or informal meetups) students see it as a normal and expected part of the college experience.
- It’s equitable. Peer support often reaches students who wouldn’t otherwise seek help, including those who feel isolated, overwhelmed, or unsure about where to turn.
- It’s a signal. Tutoring patterns offer valuable insights into student behavior. Engagement trends can highlight which courses are most challenging, which students need additional outreach, and where early interventions can make the biggest difference.
The Bottom Line
Retention isn’t just a statistic. It reflects whether students feel seen, supported, and capable of succeeding. When institutions invest in high-trust, low-barrier support, they don’t just help students persist. They strengthen the foundation for long-term success.
Let’s not wait until students leave to ask what they needed. Let’s build systems that support them from the start.
Looking to strengthen student retention through high-impact support? Knack partners with institutions to make peer tutoring more accessible, scalable, and effective. If you’re ready to turn early signals into student success, we’d love to connect.
