These are the reasons why 33% of US college students are considering withdrawing from their program of study
Nearly a third of students enrolled in a degree program are considering leaving it, with mental health issues and financial stress cited as major challenges.
Although the figure has declined since 2022, approximately one-third of bachelor’s, associate’s, or professional programs students have contemplated dropping out in the past six months. In 2022, 41 percent of students surveyed by Gallup indicated that they had considered leaving their studies.
However, one consistency in the data over the years has been mental health challenges and emotional stress, with close to half of the students citing these factors. Around a quarter also noted financial challenges and felt they did not fit in.
The students who are facing the most pressure
Gallup spoke with students of various academic programs, among those looking to obtain a bachelor’s degree, only 25 percent reported that they were considering dropping out. Levels were highest among students enrolled in Associate’s degrees (39 percent) and certificates (38 percent).
Black and brown students were also more likely than their white and Asian classmates to report that they were thinking about leaving their program. “Forty-two percent of Hispanic students and 35% of Black students say they have considered withdrawing in the past six months, compared with 27% of Asian students and 28% of White students,” read the Gallup report.
The stress some students face is evident from the results. Students who were caring for adults and children were the most likely to be considering abandoning their studies, which they may be looking to obtain to increase their income.
Caretaking responsibilities of students
- Cares for child under 18: 31 percent
- Cares for adult family member: 45 percent
- Cares for both an adult and child: 59 percent
- No caretaking responsibilities: 26 percent
Source: Gallup
Programs that could help a student facing financial troubles
Students in particularly challenging financial situations should contact their institution to see if there are any public or private grants or scholarships they may be eligible for. Additionally, if affordability and putting food on the table are concerns, students might consider applying for SNAP benefits, formerly known as food stamps. If their income—or their household’s income—falls within state eligibility criteria, receiving these benefits could provide some breathing room until their program is completed.
Though students are typically unable to claim SNAP benefits, there are exceptions, including students who:
- Care for a child under the age of 6.
- Care for a child age 6 to 11 and lack the necessary child care enabling you to attend school and work 20 hours a week or participate in work study.
- Are a single parent enrolled full-time in college and taking care of a child under 12.
Source: USDA
Other exceptions can be found listed on the US Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) webpage dedicated to SNAP benefit eligibility for students.
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