Many students are forced to drop out of college because they do not have enough money to pay for tuition, books, school supplies and other living expenses. As school tuition rates and the cost of living go up each year, many students find themselves unable to keep up with the rising costs. Many parents are unable or unwilling to support their children financially during their entire academic career, forcing many students to drop out. In addition, many college students work while attending school. These students are likely to quit school due to the stress of maintaining full-time employment and keeping up with their academic assignments.
Students unprepared for college academics often become overwhelmed and drop out. Students often find that their high school classes did not prepare them for the difficulty of college academics, or lack the self-discipline necessary to complete assignments without the aid of parents and teachers. Many students begin to receive bad grades and become so behind in their classes that they give up. Other students are bored or unhappy with the classes offered at their school, or are unmotivated to complete their program of study.
Poor mental health is a reason that college students drop out of school. According to The Princeton Review, some college students leave school due to clinical depression. These mental health issues may be caused by homesickness or an inability to feel comfortable in a new environment. Other students may find it difficult to deal with the academic stress of college life. Difficulties with living situations, particularly roommates, may also cause students to become depressed and drop out of school.
Without parental guidance, many college students find it difficult to manage the newfound freedom college offers. This confusion may lead to skipping classes, as well as excessive drinking or drug use. Students may find it difficult to balance their academic and social lives, resulting in poor grades. Students put on academic probation due to behavioral issues or academics may decide to drop out rather than do what is necessary to remain in school.
Students may choose to leave school in order to care for family members. Some students may support parents or spouses and children, and find it difficult to complete their college education. In addition, unforeseen family emergencies such as illness or death may force a student to quit school in order to support her family.