BEYOND ACADEMIC SATISFACTION: FACTORS SHAPING FOUNDATION STUDENTS’ CHOICE FOR UNDERGRADUATE STUDY AT A PRIVATE ISLAMIC UNIVERSITY IN MALAYSIA

Abstract

This study investigates the factors influencing foundation students’ decisions to either continue their undergraduate studies at the same institution or transfer elsewhere. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, quantitative data was collected via a structured survey from 151 students at a private Islamic university in Malaysia and qualitative data was gathered through open-ended questions to gain deeper insights. The quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, specifically frequencies and percentages, while the qualitative responses were analysed using descriptive content analysis to identify recurring themes. The quantitative results revealed high levels of student satisfaction with academic quality, trust in the institution, and a strong commitment to remain, qualitative analysis revealed significant deterrents to retention including inadequate infrastructure such as overcrowded hostels, poor Wi-Fi, overwhelming academic pressure, financial constraints due to high tuition fees and limited aid, and a lack of attractive or relevant undergraduate program options. The study concludes that while institutional strengths in teaching foster initial loyalty, retention is jeopardized by deficiencies in the overall student experience. Universities must therefore adopt a holistic strategy that addresses these non-academic factors to successfully transition foundation students into their degree programs and ensure long-term sustainability. However, the study is limited by its reliance on a single institution and a cross-sectional design, which restricts the generalisability of the findings and does not capture changes in student perceptions over time.