A distinguishing characteristic of Knox, courtesy of it being independently owned, is the freedom it has to accept students back for a second, or even third, year. Students are not obliged to leave the college at the end of their first year. Returners play a role in setting the tone of the college, passing on traditions, and making incoming students feel welcome. In recent years, the male:female ratio has approximated 40:60, which is reflective of the male:female student ratio throughout the University.