Retention and graduation patterns at Northern Illinois University are similar to those of other public universities with selective admission standards: they provide evidence that our students are successful at their educational endeavors. Retention rates vary by freshman class. For the five most recent freshmen classes for which data are available (2002-2006), 78 percent of freshman returned for the second year, 65 percent for the third year and 60 percent for the fourth year.
Over half of all freshmen (52 percent) graduate from the university. The average graduate is a B student. As one would expect, students with above-average academic abilities and preparation have higher graduation rates. For example, Fall 2001 freshmen who were in the upper quarter of their high school classes with ACT scores of 22 or higher have a 73 percent graduation rate.
Approximately 78 percent of the entering freshman class return for the second year. Students leave for a variety of personal, financial and academic reasons. One-quarter to one-half of the non-returning students transfer to other Illinois institutions to pursue their education. It is estimated 10 percent to 20 percent of those leaving (5 percent to 10 percent of the class) will eventually graduate from other four-year Illinois institutions.
"Of the students who recently graduated, 90 percent graduated within five years or less."
- Daniel House, Director, NIU Institutional Research
Last Revision: 4/11/08