The relationship between basic skills support, dropout rates, retention, and achievement in further education colleges was examined in a study of the 15,579 full-time students who were assessed at the time of their entry into 15 English and 3 Welsh general further education and tertiary colleges. On average, just under one-third of the students were identified as needing basic skills support. Compared to students who did not receive basic skills support, students who did were nearly three times as likely to complete their courses. Three-fourths of those who received support completed their first year of college successfully (compared to just over one-half of students who received no support). Among the barriers identified as deterring students from using basic skills support services were the following: scheduling difficulties, sensitivity to the stigma attached to having poor basic skills, and students' lack of recognition of the level of basic skills required for successful completion. Fewer than half of the students identified as needing basic skills support actually received it. It was recommended that initial assessment for basic skills difficulties be extended to part-time students. (Thirteen tables/figures are included.) (MN)