Glasgow Clyde College: Further education doesnât need to stop at college While university is often the popular choice for school leavers, it is not always the best next step for many young students. Increasing competition for spaces means that not everyone can get a place on their chosen course or at their preferred university. For those who do get in straight from school, many students lack the academic maturity required and the most recent figures show an 8.3% dropout rate in the first year. College provides an invaluable opportunity for young people to immerse in ‘student life’ without having to commit to a three or four-year full-time course. It allows crucial time for academic development as well as the chance to explore the many available pathways.