Data Dictionary

4-Year Graduation Rate

The share of a first-time, first-year cohort earning a bachelor's degree within four years (100% of normal time).

6-Year Graduation Rate

The share of a first-time, first-year cohort earning a bachelor's degree within six years (150% of normal time).

Degree

An award conferred by a postsecondary institution for completing a program of study.

Also: Degrees awarded, Degrees conferred

Freshman Retention Rate

The share of fall freshmen who are still enrolled the following fall.

Also: First-year retention, Retention rate

National Average 6-Year Graduation Rate

The IPEDS 6-year graduation rate for 4-year public institutions, used as a benchmark.