Inspiring Reenrollment in Some College, No Credential Students

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The Education Reengagement Report 2024 highlights the growing need to support Some College, No Credential (SCNC) students—those who have started higher education but left without earning a degree. With 36.8 million individuals in this category, institutions must address their unique barriers, such as credit transfer policies, financial concerns, and flexible learning options. The report outlines key factors influencing re-enrollment, including the importance of clear credit transfer policies, affordability, and program flexibility, and provides recommendations for institutions to attract and support SCNC students effectively.

1. Credit Transfer Policies Drive Enrollment Decisions

One of the most significant barriers to re-enrollment for Some College, No Credential (SCNC) students is uncertainty about how many of their previously earned credits will transfer. Over 90% of respondents indicated that credit transfer policies play a crucial role in their decision to enroll at a new institution. Schools with more generous and transparent transfer policies are far more attractive to SCNC students, particularly since many have already invested significant time and money into their education.

Additionally, 67% of students stated that knowing exactly how many credits will transfer before applying is “very important,” and 50% of students said they would not apply at all if this information was unclear. This means institutions must make credit evaluation tools, transfer equivalency databases, and personalized advising easily accessible. Schools that offer clear course-to-course credit transfers and maximize credit retention will have a competitive advantage in attracting these students.

 

2. Cost is the Leading Barrier to Re-Enrollment
The rising cost of tuition remains the primary reason students stop out of college. According to the report, 41% of SCNC students left school due to financial reasons, with 32% identifying it as their main reason for leaving. The financial burden of education, combined with the fear of student loan debt, prevents many students from considering re-enrollment.

When looking at new institutions, 98% of students stated that understanding cost savings when transferring is a key factor in their decision. Schools must emphasize cost-effective pathways, such as:

– Maximizing transferable credits to reduce the number of classes students need to retake.
– Providing scholarships and grants specifically for returning students.
– Offering tuition discounts or employer tuition assistance programs.
– Promoting flexible payment plans and low-interest loan options.

By clearly communicating these financial benefits upfront, institutions can remove one of the biggest obstacles to re-enrollment and make returning to school a more feasible option for SCNC students.

 

3. Flexible Learning Options Are Essential
Unlike traditional first-time college students, SCNC students often balance multiple responsibilities, including full-time jobs, family obligations, and financial constraints. As a result, they seek out institutions that offer flexible learning options. The report found that nearly 75% of SCNC students prefer at least a partially online learning format, with 37% opting for fully online programs. In contrast, enrollment in fully on-campus programs dropped from 47% to just 22%.

Colleges and universities that wish to attract re-enrolling students must:

– Expand online, evening, and hybrid course offerings.
– Allow rolling admissions and multiple start dates per year.
– Provide asynchronous learning options so students can complete coursework on their own schedule.
– Offer credit for prior learning (work experience, military training, certifications).

By catering to the needs of adult learners with non-traditional schedules, institutions can improve accessibility and increase enrollment rates among SCNC students.

 

4. Understanding Credit Transfer Before Applying is Crucial
The uncertainty surrounding credit transfer can prevent students from even considering re-enrollment. The report found that 97% of SCNC students believe it is important to know how many of their previous credits will be accepted before they apply to a new institution. Half of them (50%) would not apply if they didn’t know how their credits would transfer.

This means schools must go beyond simply stating that they “accept transfer credits” and instead:

– Provide a clear, detailed credit transfer evaluation before students apply.
– Develop an online credit equivalency tool where students can check which of their courses will transfer.
– Offer transfer credit workshops or dedicated advisors to guide students through the process.
– Actively promote their transfer policies in marketing materials, website pages, and outreach campaigns.

By making the credit transfer process more transparent, institutions can remove a significant barrier to re-enrollment and build trust with potential students.

 

5. Financial Support and Transparent Tuition Information Matter
Since cost is one of the main deterrents for re-enrollment, students actively seek out institutions that provide financial incentives. The report found that:

– 44% of SCNC students cite tuition and fees as the most important factor in their enrollment decision.
– 98% of students say knowing about potential cost savings is crucial when deciding where to enroll.
– 46% of students expect to see tuition costs clearly listed on a school’s website before inquiring further.

To appeal to SCNC students, institutions should:

– Make tuition and financial aid information easy to find and understand.
– Offer targeted scholarships and tuition discounts for re-enrolling students.
– Provide employer tuition reimbursement partnerships.
– Emphasize potential savings through credit transfer and accelerated degree completion programs.

Colleges and universities that clearly communicate these financial benefits are more likely to convert interested prospects into enrolled students.

 

6. Career Alignment Influences Enrollment Choices
For SCNC students, returning to school is primarily a career-driven decision. The majority (84%) intend to enroll in the same subject field they previously studied, indicating a strong commitment to completing their original academic and career goals.

Because of this, institutions should:

– Highlight career-aligned pathways for returning students.
– Partner with industries to offer job placement, internships, and apprenticeships.
– Provide updated course offerings that reflect current job market needs.
– Offer stackable credentials so students can earn valuable certifications while working toward a degree.
SCNC students are looking for institutions that can help them advance their careers without unnecessary delays. Schools that provide clear career pathways, industry connections, and workforce-aligned programs will be the most successful in attracting these students.

 

7. Personalized Outreach and Support Increase Enrollment Success
Re-engaging SCNC students requires more than just marketing campaigns—it requires personalized support throughout the enrollment process. The report found that students respond positively to:

– One-on-one meetings with credit transfer advisors (29% said this was a key factor in their school choice).
– Frequent follow-ups from enrollment staff (31% found this helpful).
– Streamlined application processes that remove unnecessary barriers (such as standardized test requirements).
– Clear and responsive communication from institutions.

To increase enrollment rates, schools must go beyond generic advertising and instead:

– Assign dedicated advisors to assist SCNC students with credit evaluations and financial aid options.
– Offer virtual office hours and online chat support.
– Simplify the application and transfer process as much as possible.
– Follow up with students through multiple communication channels (email, phone, text).
By providing a more hands-on, supportive approach, institutions can guide students through the re-enrollment process and help them successfully return to higher education.

 

Conclusion
The Education Reengagement Report 2024 underscores the urgent need for higher education institutions to adapt their strategies to attract and retain SCNC students. By prioritizing transparent credit transfer policies, financial accessibility, flexible learning formats, and personalized support, colleges and universities can effectively re-engage this significant student population. Institutions that focus on streamlining re-enrollment processes and aligning educational offerings with career goals will be best positioned to grow enrollments and support student success. 

Download the full report here:

 

Inspiring Reenrollment in Some College, No Credential Students

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