<p>Vossron, of course, a graduation rate cannot be higher than a retention rate. However, there are many instances of schools whose retention rates are lower, but graduation rates higher than others. For example, a rural LAC which loses 10% of its freshman but has a 4 year graduation rate of 80% vs. a state flagship which loses only 5% of its freshmen but graduates only 65% in 4 years.</p>
<p>As I noted, typically more freshman will find a very small school (“too much like high school”; “those tailgate parties at state U are a blast!”) or a very rural school ("nothing to do here’) or a single sex school (“I want to meet guys some place other than a loud party or bar”) failing to match their expectations, but those who stay graduate on time. At state flagships, the issues of getting into required classes, or not getting enough guidance to pick a major on time, can result in some surprisingly low graduation rates (for example, Rutgers below 50%).</p>