The article is based on the results of research carried out under the RANLHE project in several Polish academic institutions. Applying the biographical research approach, the project aimed to explore and understand the access and retention-related experiences of non-traditional students. In a study of non-traditional students, three distinct patterns of retention practices have been identified. These have been investigated and discussed against the background of the students' habitus and institutional academic culture. In the article, we focus primarily on the key factors that influence retention and dropout rates in higher education.