Retention of First-Year Students

The retention rate is an indicator of how well first-year students acclimate to an institution's academic and social life. Ninety-six percent (96%) or more of the University's first-year students consistentily return their second year, a rate comparable with that of our peer institutions and among the highest levels in the nation. W&L students typically persist to their second year at rates that are among the highest in the nation among all institutions including University peers.

Minimum - 95%

Target - 96%

Actual:

First-Year Retention Rates
Fall Cohort	Washington and Lee	Peer Average
2012	97	95
2013	97	95
2014	96	95
2015	95	95
2016	97	96
2017	96	96
2018	98	96
2019	97	89
2020	96	95
2021	98	95
2022	95	95
2023	97