September 05, 2025
The recent report titled “Tracking Transfer” from a prominent research center reveals that there has been minimal advancement in the transfer rates of first-time college students. However, it also highlights various factors that may lead to improved outcomes for these students.
This latest analysis, part of an ongoing series, focused on the transfer statistics of students who began their journey in community colleges in 2017, as well as those who transitioned from community colleges to four-year institutions during the same academic year.
The findings indicate that merely 31.6 percent of first-time community college students from 2017 successfully transferred to another institution within a six-year timeframe. Furthermore, of those who did transfer, only 49.7 percent went on to earn a bachelor’s degree, reflecting similar trends observed in previous cohorts.
Interestingly, certain groups of students demonstrated more favorable outcomes. For instance, individuals who entered community college with dual-enrollment credits exhibited higher transfer rates of 46.9 percent and a bachelor’s degree completion rate of 60.1 percent.
Moreover, the completion rates for bachelor’s degrees were notably higher among transfer students who enrolled in public four-year institutions compared to their counterparts in other types of colleges. Nearly 75 percent of students who transitioned from community colleges to public four-year universities during the 2017–18 academic year achieved a bachelor’s degree within six years. The report also noted that a significant majority, 75.2 percent, of transfer students from community colleges opted for public four-year colleges and universities.
Retention rates for these transfer students were also commendable. Among those who made the transition, 82 percent returned to their four-year institutions for the subsequent academic year. This retention rate was even more impressive for students who had obtained a certificate or an associate degree prior to transferring, reaching 86.8 percent—almost 10 percentage points higher than those who did not earn any credentials before their transfer.
As institutions prepare for the upcoming academic year, it is essential for leaders to anticipate a more engaged and proactive board, as highlighted by various experts in the field.
Additionally, there are opportunities for institutions to explore practical applications of AI technology to enhance student recruitment, retention, and graduation rates, showcasing real-world examples of successful implementations.
Stay informed and engaged with the latest trends and insights in higher education to better support students in their academic journeys.