The Reasons of School Dropouts in Higher Education: Babaeski Vocational College Case

Abstract

In Turkey, nearly 400.000 higher education student have left university education in the last 3 years. This figure is an indication of a negative situation. Turkey is in the first place in terms of school dropout rates within the European Higher Education Area (EHEA). After completing primary and secondary education and passing the necessary exams, high figures belonging to students who are placed in a higher education program but who terminate their education on various occasions must be justified. The research was carried out between March 2016 and June 2017 in order to create a projection about reasons for the school dropout with the participation of Kirklareli University Babaeski Vocational College students who requested the 'registration clearance'. According to research results, students usually ask for registration clearance for financial reasons. The research findings are important in terms of determining the causes of school dropouts at higher education level in Turkey and suggesting solution proposals. In order to prevent school dropouts at the higher education level, especially at vocational colleges, there is a need to establish an effective system for students, instructors and administrators.