Transfer-out rate is the percentage of a full-time, first-time degree-seeking cohort that transfers to another institution within 150 percent of normal time without having completed a credential at the original institution.
How it works
The institution tracks members of the full-time first-time cohort who leave and enroll at another institution within the 150 percent window, using National Student Clearinghouse or similar data. Those who did not receive an award at the original institution are counted as transfers-out. The rate is transfers-out ÷ cohort. The figure is submitted to IPEDS and, when required, published in consumer disclosures.
Example: of 400 full-time first-time students at a community college, 120 completed an award and 80 transferred to a four-year institution without completing. The transfer-out rate is 20 percent. Both figures appear in the institution’s Student Right-to-Know disclosure.
How it differs
Graduation rate counts completers. Transfer-in student describes incoming students. Outcome Measures focuses on awards conferred by the reporting institution and does not primarily feature transfer-out. Retention rate measures return to the same institution.
Common errors
Counting students who completed a credential before transferring as transfers-out. Assuming every institution is required to disclose a transfer-out rate. Interpreting a high transfer-out rate as failure when the institution’s mission is transfer preparation.
References
- 1. IPEDS Graduation Rates transfer-outReporting requirements
- 2. Student Right-to-Know transfer-out disclosureConsumer information
Transfer-out rate is the percentage of a full-time, first-time degree-seeking cohort that transfers to another institution within 150 percent of normal time without having completed a credential at the original institution.