This book combines findings of existing research with fresh evidence supplied from a sample of institutions regarding noncompletion rates of mature students in postcompulsory education. Chapter 1 considers the changes that have taken place in postcompulsory education and the implications of having an expanded and more diverse student population. Chapter 2 indicates that difficulty in obtaining a clear and reliable picture of student retention and withdrawal patterns is partly to do with problems of definitions. Chapter 3 considers procedures currently used by institutions for collecting student data and measuring and recording withdrawals. Chapter 4 offers research findings regarding noncompletion rates. Chapter 5 discusses variables that affect completion rates: type of course and learning mode, student characteristics, previous qualifications, and different student cohorts. Chapter 6 explores research and institutional evidence regarding reasons for noncompletion. Chapter 7 examines variations in reasons for withdrawal according to cohort differences, gender differences, age, and integration into the learning environment. Chapters 8-11 outline strategies for dealing with the most common causes of withdrawal and for improving retention rates: precourse contact and transition, ongoing support, academic support, and provision of student support services. Chapter 12 offers conclusions. (Contains 160 references. Three appendixes include the questionnaire used in an institutional survey, leaver codes, and a transition into higher education questionnaire.) (YLB)