Exploring Motivational Factors Influencing Rural Students’ Aspirations Toward Higher Education: Evidence from Indonesia

This study investigates the internal and external factors influencing high school graduates’ interest in pursuing higher education in Sukamara Regency, Indonesia—a rural region with limited tertiary education access. Data were collected from 277 final-year students across 14 schools using a structured questionnaire. Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) revealed seven key motivational dimensions, with Aspirational Drive and Confidence and Initiative emerging as dominant factors. Chi-square analyses demonstrated a significant association between gender and higher education interest, with female students displaying stronger aspirations (p < .001), while parental education and school type were not significant predictors. Logistic regression analysis identified Institutional Trust and Access, Social/Family Influence, and Community Responsibility as significant drivers of student aspirations. The findings highlight strong intrinsic motivation among rural students, despite external challenges. Policy implications emphasize enhancing institutional credibility, strengthening familial support systems, and expanding accessible higher education infrastructure in remote areas.