Problems associated with determining attrition rates and causes of attrition in the Regents External Degree Program of the University of the State of New York were studied. Students were defined as having dropped out of the program if they had not paid their annual records fee (registration fee). Data are provided to compare attrition figures to the total number of active and graduated students. Inactive students were surveyed to determine why they had become inactive and how satisfied they were with the program. In addition, as part of a larger survey (1981 candidate/graduate study), information was collected on characteristics of inactive students, previous education, occupation, and views of selected program policies. In 1982, a survey form was sent to respondents of the 1981 candidate/graduate study to determine how they had progressed in their studies. Active candidates were categorized as those becoming inactive during the last year and those who had graduated during the last year. Finally, in 1983, students were surveyed as they become inactive. The findings of the surveys are summarized, and the most important reasons for being inactive are identified (e.g., finances, time) for students from five college degree programs. (SW)