How to Calculate Graduation Rate

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Graduation Rate Calculator

function calculateGraduationRate() { var initial = parseFloat(document.getElementById('initialCohort').value); var tIn = parseFloat(document.getElementById('transfersIn').value) || 0; var tOut = parseFloat(document.getElementById('transfersOut').value) || 0; var excluded = parseFloat(document.getElementById('exclusions').value) || 0; var grads = parseFloat(document.getElementById('graduates').value); var resultDiv = document.getElementById('gradRateResult'); if (isNaN(initial) || isNaN(grads) || initial <= 0) { resultDiv.style.display = "block"; resultDiv.style.backgroundColor = "#f8d7da"; resultDiv.style.color = "#721c24"; resultDiv.innerHTML = "Please enter valid numbers for the cohort and graduate counts."; return; } // Formula: Adjusted Cohort = Initial + Transfers In – Transfers Out – Exclusions var adjustedCohort = initial + tIn – tOut – excluded; if (adjustedCohort <= 0) { resultDiv.style.display = "block"; resultDiv.style.backgroundColor = "#f8d7da"; resultDiv.style.color = "#721c24"; resultDiv.innerHTML = "Error: Adjusted cohort size must be greater than zero."; return; } var rate = (grads / adjustedCohort) * 100; resultDiv.style.display = "block"; resultDiv.style.backgroundColor = "#d4edda"; resultDiv.style.color = "#155724"; resultDiv.innerHTML = "

Graduation Rate: " + rate.toFixed(2) + "%

" + "Adjusted Cohort Size: " + adjustedCohort + ""; }

How to Calculate Graduation Rate

The graduation rate is a key performance indicator for educational institutions, measuring the percentage of students who complete their degree or diploma within a specific timeframe. While a simple percentage of graduates out of the total student body provides a snapshot, the Adjusted Cohort Graduation Rate (ACGR) is the gold standard for reporting in the United States and globally.

The Basic Graduation Rate Formula

In its simplest form, the calculation is:

Graduation Rate = (Number of Graduates / Total Number of Students) × 100

Calculating the Adjusted Cohort Graduation Rate (ACGR)

Modern educational reporting uses an "adjusted cohort" to account for the fact that students move between schools or may have legitimate reasons for leaving the system. The calculation involves four main steps:

  1. Identify the Initial Cohort: This includes all students entering the 9th grade (for high schools) or the first year of a degree program (for colleges) for the first time.
  2. Add Transfers In: Include any students who join the school or program after the start date but are expected to graduate with the same group.
  3. Subtract Transfers Out: Remove students who officially transferred to another school or program that leads to a degree.
  4. Remove Exclusions: Subtract students who passed away or were called to active duty military service.

Calculation Example

Imagine a high school with the following data:

  • Initial 9th Grade Cohort: 500 students
  • Transfers In: 20 students
  • Transfers Out: 15 students
  • Exclusions: 2 students
  • Total Graduates: 420 students

Step 1: Calculate the Adjusted Cohort

500 (Initial) + 20 (In) – 15 (Out) – 2 (Exclusions) = 503 Adjusted Cohort

Step 2: Calculate the Rate

(420 Graduates / 503 Adjusted Cohort) × 100 = 83.50%

Why Graduation Rates Matter

Graduation rates are more than just statistics; they are used to evaluate school effectiveness, secure government funding, and assist parents and students in choosing an institution. High graduation rates typically indicate strong student support systems, quality instruction, and high levels of student engagement. Conversely, low rates may trigger administrative reviews or policy changes aimed at improving student retention.

Difference Between 4-Year and 6-Year Rates

In higher education, you will often see "4-year" and "6-year" graduation rates. The 4-year rate measures those who finish on time, while the 6-year rate (often used by the National Center for Education Statistics) provides a more comprehensive look at students who may work while studying or change majors, reflecting the reality of modern degree completion timelines.

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