Completion Targets Policy for Low-Income Students
Policy Statement
An-Najah National University is committed not only to admitting students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds but also to ensuring that these students successfully complete their degree programs. The University sets clear graduation targets, provides comprehensive support services, and implements initiatives to remove financial, academic, and social barriers. This approach ensures that low-income students can thrive and achieve their educational goals.
Scope
This policy applies to all undergraduate and graduate students admitted from the lowest 20% of household income across all governorates. It covers all programs and disciplines offered at the University.
Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to:
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Maintain a graduation/completion target of at least 85% for students from low-income backgrounds.
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Reduce dropout rates caused by financial hardship, academic challenges, or social pressures.
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Provide tailored support that empowers students to succeed academically, socially, and professionally.
Definitions
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Economically Disadvantaged Students: Students from the lowest 20% of household income as identified by national statistics.
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Completion Targets: The percentage of these students expected to graduate within the standard timeframe.
Procedures
1. Graduation/Completion Targets
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The University aims for a minimum of 85% of admitted low-income students to complete their programs within the standard timeframe.
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Academic departments will monitor and report students’ progress each semester.
2. Tracking and Intervention
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Early warning systems identify students at risk of falling behind or dropping out.
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Academic advisors provide personalized support plans, including mentoring, tutoring, or referrals to support services.
3. Support Services to Enable Completion
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Financial Support: Scholarships, emergency grants, and work-study programs to reduce financial barriers.
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Housing and Meals: Affordable accommodation and meal plans to ensure students’ basic needs are met.
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Transportation: Assistance for students who need support commuting to campus.
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Counseling and Wellbeing: Mental health services, career counseling, stress management, and life skills workshops.
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Legal and Administrative Support: Guidance for navigating University policies, procedures, and related documentation.
4. Programs and Initiatives
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Academic Programs: Tutoring centers, study groups, remedial courses, and peer mentoring.
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Faculty Development: Training staff to support diverse socioeconomic backgrounds and inclusive teaching practices.
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Community and Networking Initiatives: Programs that connect students with mentors, alumni, and professional networks to enhance success and retention.
Principles
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Student-Centered Approach: Focus on student success and well-being.
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Equity in Outcomes: Strive for similar graduation rates across all income groups.
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Accountability: Clear responsibilities and reporting lines for departments and University leadership.
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Continuous Improvement: Regularly use data, student feedback, and evaluation results to enhance support programs.
Monitoring and Evaluation
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Annual reports on graduation rates for low-income students, disaggregated by income and program.
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Surveys, focus groups, and feedback mechanisms to assess the impact of support services.
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Policy and program updates every three years to respond to emerging challenges and improve outcomes.
Accountability
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Deanship of Student Affairs: Overall responsibility for monitoring support services and student outcomes.
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Academic Departments: Implement retention and academic support strategies.
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University Administration: Ensure resources, coordination, and alignment with the University’s mission.
Related Policies
Effective Date: December 17, 2022
Review Date: Jun 26, 2024