Dropping Out of College: Things to Consider Before Making the Final Decision

Deciding to drop out of college is quite difficult. You may feel overwhelmed by the thought of giving up on your dreams, not having the same opportunities as those who will complete their degrees, or fear you’re failing because you can’t seem to make it work.

But before jumping ship and writing off college completely, consider some important factors that should help inform your choice. While dropping out of college isn’t right for everyone, there are scenarios in which doing so marks an opportunity and makes sense.

Read on to learn more about making this big decision — if it’s the right move for you.

College Dropout Rate

The college dropout rate in the United States is quite high, with up to 32.9% of undergraduates not completing their degree program.

In a recent study conducted by BestColleges, the average rate of freshman dropouts between 2015 and 2020 was 24.3%. The dropout rate is even higher for certain demographics, such as those aged 19 and under (5%) and those aged 20-23 (51%).

Additionally, a recent survey found that 17% of students enrolled in college said they were dropping out after this semester due to the pandemic.

It’s important to note that while some students do not complete their degree programs, many return later. 33% of dropouts from schools with a graduation rate under 40% return after one year, and 69% return within six years.

Reasons to Drop Out of College

After considering the national dropout rate, it’s important to understand why people are dropping out of college in the first place.

1. Limited financial support: Without sufficient financial resources, students may be unable to continue their college studies.
2. Unsuitable course/program: Some students may find out that the course or program they chose isn’t a good fit for them and may decide to drop out.
3. Mental health issues: College can be a stressful and overwhelming experience for some students, leading them to drop out due to depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues.
4. Lack of motivation: It’s easy for students to become unmotivated in their studies and eventually choose to drop out.
5. Unsupportive environment: In an unsupportive college environment, students may feel like they’re not getting the help they need and eventually drop out.

These are just a few common reasons people drop out of college. They may also choose to drop out due to a lack of time, family obligations, or any other personal reasons.

Consequences of Dropping Out of College

Dropping out of college isn’t a decision to be taken lightly, as it can have not only negative but sometimes possible consequences.

Negative Consequences:

1. Fewer job opportunities: Dropping out of college can lead to fewer job opportunities and lower salaries. It is especially true in highly competitive fields such as finance, engineering, and computer science.
2. Lower social status: Not completing college can lead to a lower social status, as many people view higher education as an achievement.
3. Reduced earning potential: Dropping out of college means you’re likely to have a lower earning potential than those who have completed their degrees.
4. Difficulty returning: It can be difficult to return to college after dropping out, as you may need to start from scratch or complete additional requirements.

Potential Positive Consequences:

1. Time to pursue other interests: Dropping out of college can give you more time to pursue other interests, such as starting a business or learning a new skill.
2. Reduced financial burden: Without the financial burden of college, you can focus on other pursuits that don’t require a large amount of money.
3. Greater flexibility: Dropping out of college can give you more freedom and flexibility regarding career paths, allowing you to explore different options.
4. Personal growth: Without the pressure of college coursework, you’ll have more time to focus on self-development and personal growth.

As you contemplate whether or not to drop out of college, it is critical that you consider the advantages and disadvantages before making a definitive decision.

If, in fact, you decide to leave college, then make sure to have an actionable plan prepared for what your next step will be.

Things to Consider Before Dropping Out

If you’re considering dropping out of college, several factors must be analyzed before making a final decision.

1. Assess the financial situation: Dropping out of college can lead to decreased job opportunities. So it’s important to assess your current financial situation and if you’ll have the opportunity to support yourself without a degree.
2. Ask whether you can go back: If you want to return to college later on, it’s important to find out whether or not that’s an option. Some colleges and universities may have policies in place that make returning after dropping out difficult.
3. Consider long-term goals: Dropping out of college can be beneficial if you’re pursuing a different path, but it’s important to consider your long-term goals and whether or not dropping out is the best option for achieving them.
4. Think about taking a gap year: A gap year can be a great option for those who want to take some time off from college but aren’t ready to drop out completely. It can help you gain valuable experience while still keeping your options open.
5. Seek advice and guidance: Don’t make a decision in isolation; seek advice from friends and family members who can provide guidance and support.
6. Look into alternatives: Consider all of your options before dropping out, such as taking a gap year, attending community college, or entering an apprenticeship program.
7. Make sure it’s the right decision: Lastly, make sure that dropping out of college is the right decision. Take some time to reflect and think about what you’re giving up and how it will affect your future.

Dropping out of college isn’t a decision to be taken lightly, and it’s important to weigh all of the potential consequences before making a final decision.

Questions to Ask Yourself Before Dropping Out

If you still aren’t sure whether or not dropping out is the right choice for you, consider asking yourself these questions:

• Am I comfortable with the potential financial consequences of dropping out?
• Have I considered my long-term goals and how this decision may affect them?
• What are my alternatives to dropping out?
• Have I thought about the potential difficulty of returning to college in the future?
• Have I sought advice and guidance from family and friends?
• Am I making this decision for the right reasons?
• Do I have a plan in place for what I’ll do after dropping out?

Answering these questions can help you gain clarity and make the right decision for your future.

Bottom Line

Dropping out of college can be difficult, but for some people, it may be the best choice. Being aware of all the potential consequences and having a plan in place for the future can help make the transition smoother and less stressful.

Ultimately, only you can decide if dropping out of college is your right choice. So, take the time to assess your situation, consider all of your options, and make the decision that will serve you best in the long run. Good luck!