Student retention is a cornerstone of higher education success. Every student who completes their degree represents a victory—not just for them but for the institution as well. Yet, many colleges and universities face challenges in keeping students engaged throughout their academic journey.
With the right strategies and tools, like Meritto’s CRM in higher education, institutions can address these retention challenges effectively. Here’s a guide to six proven ways to improve student retention, leveraging the power of a purpose-built higher education CRM.
1. Intervene Early with Targeted Support Programs
Students often face challenges that can derail their academic progress. Identifying and addressing these issues early is critical to preventing dropouts.
How Meritto Helps:
Meritto’s higher education CRM software uses predictive analytics to identify at-risk students based on key metrics. Early alerts enable academic advisors to provide timely support, whether through tutoring, mentorship, or counseling services. This proactive approach ensures small problems don’t escalate into significant barriers.
By streamlining intervention programs, Meritto helps institutions build a strong foundation for student success.
2. Improve Retention with a Personalized Admission Process
Retention starts long before a student steps onto campus. A personalized admissions process helps build trust and sets the tone for a positive experience.
How Meritto Helps:
Meritto’s CRM for universities creates 360° student profiles, enabling enrollment teams to engage with students on a personal level. From tailored messaging to understanding individual goals, admissions staff can provide a customized experience.
This personal touch fosters a sense of belonging, increasing the likelihood that students will persist through their studies.
3. Address Financial Concerns Early
For many students, financial challenges are a significant barrier to degree completion. Addressing these concerns proactively can reduce dropout rates.
How Meritto Helps:
Meritto’s unified payment stack simplifies fee management and offers flexible financing options, including zero-interest EMIs. Automated reminders ensure students stay on top of payment deadlines, reducing financial stress.
Additionally, Meritto’s CRM integrates scholarship and financial aid workflows, helping students access resources efficiently. When finances are less of a worry, students can focus on their studies.
4. Build a Thriving Campus Community
A strong sense of community can make all the difference for students navigating the challenges of college life. Encouraging participation in campus life builds connections and resilience.
How Meritto Helps:
Meritto’s higher education CRM enables institutions to manage and promote events seamlessly. From club sign-ups to sports and extracurriculars, students receive personalized invites based on their interests.
By fostering meaningful peer connections, institutions can enhance the overall campus experience and improve retention rates.
5. Clearly Communicate Student Support Options
Even the most robust support services are ineffective if students don’t know how to access them. Clear communication is key.
How Meritto Helps:
Meritto’s 360° communication suite centralizes email, WhatsApp, SMS, and chatbot interactions. This ensures students receive timely updates about available resources, from academic advising to mental health counseling.
Automated engagement campaigns help institutions keep students informed, reducing the likelihood of them feeling unsupported or lost.
6. Offer Adaptive, Flexible Learning Experiences
Today’s students expect flexibility in their education, from online learning options to part-time schedules. Meeting these expectations is crucial to retaining diverse student populations.
How Meritto Helps:
Meritto’s higher education CRM software streamlines the management of flexible learning programs. Students can enroll in online or hybrid courses, track their progress, and receive reminders about deadlines—all through a single platform.
This adaptability ensures students can continue their education, even when life throws curveballs their way.
Measuring Retention Success with Key Metrics
Retention efforts are most effective when backed by data. Meritto’s CRM provides insights into critical metrics, helping institutions make informed decisions.
Metrics to Track:
- Retention Rate: Percentage of students who remain enrolled year-over-year.
- Predictive Risk Scores: Early warnings for at-risk students based on academic and behavioral data.
- Time to Degree: Average time students take to complete their degrees.
- Withdrawal Rates: Identifying patterns in course or program withdrawals to address systemic issues.
With real-time analytics, Meritto empowers institutions to track progress, identify trends, and refine strategies for improved retention.
Why Institutions Trust Meritto
Meritto is trusted by over 1,000 educational organizations worldwide for its ability to simplify enrollment and retention processes.
Key Stats:
- 1 Billion student engagements powered annually
- 100 Million inquiries processed every year
- 5 Million applications managed annually
- 50,000 business users across departments
Meritto’s CRM combines powerful automation with user-friendly tools, ensuring every student’s journey is smooth, personalized, and supported.
Final Thoughts
Improving student retention requires a multifaceted approach, addressing academic, financial, and social challenges. With Meritto’s CRM in higher education, institutions can take proactive steps to support students at every stage of their journey.
From early intervention to flexible learning options, Meritto’s platform provides the tools needed to build a thriving academic community. Ready to transform your retention strategies? Schedule a demo today and see how Meritto can help your institution succeed.
