FORECASTING COLLEGE STUDENT RETENTION: IDENTIFYING SELECTED FACTORS IN SOUTHEASTERN COLLEGE

This study utilized the quantitative descriptive research to determine the college students' retention in Southeastern College, Pasay City. The respondents of this study were composed of 160 students from the three College Departments at the Southeastern College, Pasay City. This includes students from the different programs offered by the school from 1st year to 4th year level. It was found that the age distribution may have implications for student retention strategies, as younger students may exhibit different academic needs, motivational factors, and levels of independence compared to their older counterparts. While the institution primarily serves middle-income families, there is still a notable proportion of students from both ends of the economic spectrum, underscoring the importance of inclusive policies and financial assistance programs to support retention across all income groups. The regression analysis reveals nuanced enrollment trends in Southeastern College. While student retention remains strong, the observed decline in total enrollment emphasizes the importance of strategic interventions to sustain and improve retention rates across all programs, ensuring that students continue to be supported throughout their academic careers in Southeastern College. The institution should provide academic counseling and peer mentoring programs to help students overcome challenges related to academic adjustment, study habits, and social networks. It is also recommended to expand financial aid options, such as scholarships, grants, and emergency funds, to help alleviate the financial burden and ensure that students can continue their studies without interruption.