William & Mary Athletics has once again demonstrated its commitment to academic excellence. On November 19, 2023, the NCAA released its annual graduation rate reports, revealing that for the 21st consecutive year, the Tribe achieved a Federal Graduation Rate (FGR) of 87%. This impressive figure ranks among the top two for Division I public institutions in the United States and significantly surpasses the national average of 68% for all student-athletes.
The Tribe’s performance places them eighth overall among all Division I schools, marking the highest rate in the state of Virginia. Alongside the FGR, the NCAA also provides a Graduation Success Rate (GSR), which accounts for students who transfer into an institution while excluding those who transfer out in good academic standing. William & Mary’s GSR stands at a remarkable 96%, an increase from last year’s score and matching its historical best since the report’s inception.
Exceptional Achievements in Graduation Rates
The NCAA’s overall GSR average for this reporting year is 90%, placing William & Mary’s score in a distinguished position. The Tribe ranks fourth nationally among Division I public schools for GSR and third within the state of Virginia. The consistency of the Tribe’s success is evident, as 14 of their teams reported a perfect GSR of 100%, including all women’s programs. This achievement marks the 16th time in the report’s 21-year history that at least ten William & Mary programs have reached a GSR of 100%.
Four teams, including men’s and women’s gymnastics, men’s tennis, and women’s golf, have maintained a perfect GSR every year since the report began. Additionally, teams such as men’s golf, women’s soccer, and women’s lacrosse have also achieved streaks of over five consecutive years with 100% GSRs.
Federal Graduation Rate Highlights
In terms of the FGR, six programs at William & Mary achieved a perfect score, including women’s cross country and track & field, men’s gymnastics, and both men’s and women’s swimming. Overall, 18 of the Tribe’s 19 programs exceeded the national averages for their respective sports in GSR.
The data reflects the cohort of students who began their higher education in the fall of 2018, alongside the four-year average for those who first enrolled between the fall of 2015 and the fall of 2018. This consistent academic performance underscores William & Mary’s dedication not only to athletic success but also to ensuring that student-athletes excel in their academic pursuits.
As the NCAA continues to evaluate graduation rates, William & Mary Athletics sets a commendable standard, showcasing the importance of education in the realm of college sports.
