First-year Students’ University and Programme Selection at a South African University: Choice or Compulsion?
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This article examines factors influencing university and programme selection among first-year students at a historically disadvantaged university in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Qualitative focus groups and convenience sampling were used. Residential proximity, institutional reputation, programme image, entry requirements, affordability and funding influenced university selection. Programme selection was shaped by background dynamics, subjects, unmet requirements, family and peer influence, not being selected for first-choice programmes, limited career guidance and funding availability. University selection was principally informed by choice, while programme selection was largely influenced by external factors.