Institutional Determinants of College Choice Decisions Among Business Students in Nepal

Abstract

College choice remains a crucial concern for students and parents, particularly during admissions. The decision students make about their education has far-reaching consequences for their future. This topic has been explored extensively in the literature. However, few studies have focused on institutional factors of students’ college choice decisions in Nepal. Therefore, this study examines institutional determinants/factors which are more significant in college choice decisions. Based on a survey of 385 conveniently sampled undergraduate and postgraduate business students of Pokhara University, the factor analysis results demonstrate four institutional factors: university/college reputation, quality of educational facilities, cost and financial assistance, and employment opportunities as significant factors in college choice decisions. This research aids colleges in marketing themselves to prospective students and understanding what drives individuals to pursue higher education by revealing the most significant institutional factors. Moreover, the study's limitations are discussed and suggestions for further investigation are offered.