Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

What does graduation rate tell you?

The graduation rate measures the share of students who complete their degree within 150% of normal program time — for a 4-year degree, that's 6 years. A higher rate signals stronger academic support, financial aid, and student services. Low graduation rates may indicate higher dropout risk, often tied to cost, academic fit, or institutional support gaps. Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University's 86% graduation rate places it in the Excellent tier — ranked among the top-completing colleges in the country.