New NCSEHE-funded research has found high-achieving students from regional South Australia transitioned from school to university at lower rates than students in metropolitan areas, despite ATAR students’ higher education aspirations.
The project, led by Professor Sharron King from the University of South Australia, showed this cohort were less likely to complete high school; less likely to apply to university; less likely to accept a university offer and; for those who do, are twice as likely to defer their place and less likely to complete their degree.
Geographical isolation; costs and finances; lack of knowledge about financial support; reluctance to leave their local area; and lack of access to adequate career advice and information were identified as key barriers.
The research informed recommendations including collaboration with regional schools and communities; proactive provision of information about cost, financial support and attending university; increased government funding to allow for on-campus visits; expansion of peer mentoring programs; working closely with Regional University Centres and regional campuses; and maintaining contact with students who have deferred university place.
This research was funded by the NCSEHE through the Research Grants Program.
Read the full report, Investigating transitions to university from regional South Australian high schools
This research was conducted under the NCSEHE Research Grants Program, funded by the Australian Government Department of Education, Skills and Employment.
