Despite the fact that your earning potential and employment opportunities increase substantially after you earn a college degree, there is a large percentage of people who drop out before they complete their degree program. In fact, some colleges estimate that less than 10% of those who enroll in a degree program actually finish that program.

So, what is causing so many college students to drop out before they finish their degree programs? While there isn’t one answer to summarize the phenomenon, there are several different potential causes. Here’s a look at a few.

“I Don’t Fit In”

For some college students, getting adjusted to the college life and getting to know other students can be a difficult task. While some people view the “college experience” as a positive one, others never feel comfortable or suffer from homesickness. So, after giving it a try, they may ultimately decide to pack up their bags and go home before finishing the degree program.

If you feel this way, you can help make yourself more comfortable by participating in clubs and other activities. Or, you might want to consider attending an online school or a community college, which will allow you to live at home while still pursuing a higher education.

“I Can’t Stay Focused”

While some people have difficulty fitting in at college, others fit in a little too much. As a result, they spend more time partying and having fun than they do on their studies. These individuals may get placed on academic probation or may otherwise be forced to leave due to poor academic performance.

To avoid this problem, be certain to set a schedule before heading off to school. Set aside a healthy amount of time to spend with your friends, but make certain to plan enough time for your studies as well.

“I’m Sick of School”

Some people never really enjoyed going to school in the first place, and heading off to college doesn’t make it any better! For some, dealing with a demanding schedule and the seemingly never-ending stream of homework can lead to serious burnout.

To help prevent educational burnout, you might want to consider taking a lighter load. Instead of going full time, think about going part time instead. Sure, it will take you a little longer to reach graduation, but taking 6 years instead of 4 years to complete your degree is better than dropping out and never completing a degree program.

“I Can’t Keep Up”

Whether their high school failed them or they failed to push themselves with the more challenging courses, some simply become frustrated by college because they can’t keep up with the academics.

If you are still in high school, you can better prepare yourself for college academics by taking the most challenging courses possible. If you have already finished high school, you may want to take some lower level refresher courses before delving into the courses required for your degree program. This way, you will be better prepared and more likely to succeed.

“It’s Too Expensive”

Unfortunately, some people who are academically and mentally prepared to head back to college run into financial problems that put their college pursuits on hold. As tuition prices continue to soar, finding the money for college can sometimes be difficult.

Although it is difficult to completely plan for the financial aspect of going to college, you should sit down and create a budget before you head to school that will put you in the best position for being able to handle the financial burden of college. In addition, look into scholarships, grants and other financial resources before you sign up for classes. It is easier to look for funding assistance now than it will be while you are actually in school.

“I Chose the Wrong School”

In some cases, the school a person chooses may not be a good match for the student. For example, if the school has a scientific focus, but you are more of a creative-type person, you may never feel comfortable at that school.

To avoid this problem, make certain to research all of your college options thoroughly and to be honest with yourself about the type of school you should attend. The more you and the school gel together, the more successful you will likely be.

“My Major is Not Right for Me”

Some people realize after heading to college that the major they selected is not quite right for them. As a result of this dissatisfaction, they choose to drop out of the program completely rather than exploring other options.

Before you sign up for a degree program, be certain to explore your career interests and to choose the program that is best suited to your interests. While there is still a possibility that you will get involved with the program and then realize that it is not right for you, you will reduce the chances of this happening if you thoroughly explore your interests and career goals before enrolling in a program.

“Personal Issues Got in My Way”

Personal issues have a tendency to occur unexpectedly. Whether the problem is with work or with family, juggling personal issues while going to school at the same time can be quite difficult. In some cases, the personal issues may be so extreme that it is impossible to stay on track with a degree program while tending to those issues as well.

Sometimes, it is impossible to keep from getting steered off course when personal issues happen. But, you can decrease the chances of this happening by setting up a strong network of friends and family who can help you out when times get tough. This way, you will have people to lean back on when personal issues hit, which will make it easier for you to stay on track.