This study used data for a representative sample of 8th graders from the National Educational Longitudinal Study of 1988. The intent was to (1) compare student's dropout status with variables such as demographics, academic and economic factors, limited English proficiency status, and other risk factors of dropping out, (2) distinguish factors associated with four different levels of dropout status (returned to high school, received GED, continued postsecondary studies without high school degree, no further schooling), (3) examine the relationship between subsequent education decisions of dropouts and postsecondary school attainment, and (4) contrast the economic and life satisfaction outcomes of different types of dropouts. Socioeconomic status, academic aspirations and achievement, and family parent interactions were found to be the best determining factors between one-time dropouts who finished education and those who did not. A weak correlation was found between ethnicity and return to high school versus receipt of a GED. Students who completely quit school were found to be unlikely to receive postsecondary education. There were no significant differences in life satisfaction between former dropouts who received a diploma and those who received a GED, but there were significant differences between those who completed their education and those who did not. (Contains five data tables and 26 references.) (SLR)