SOCIOECONOMIC FACTORS AND THEIR IMPACT ON ACCESS TO HIGHER EDUCATION IN RURAL AND URBAN COMMUNITIES

Abstract

This paper explores the socioeconomic factors that influence access to higher education in rural and urban communities, with a particular focus on how disparities in income, parental education, access to resources, and geographic location impact students' ability to enroll in and complete tertiary education. Through a quantitative analysis, the study compares rural and urban students across several indicators, revealing significant barriers to college enrollment for rural students. The findings highlight that despite similar socioeconomic statuses, rural students consistently face lower college enrollment rates due to limited access to educational infrastructure, financial constraints, and geographic challenges. The paper calls for targeted policy interventions to improve access to higher education for rural students, including enhanced financial support, better access to technology, and efforts to address the geographical distribution of educational institutions. By examining these disparities, this study provides valuable insights into the persistent challenges faced by rural students and offers recommendations for fostering equitable access to postsecondary education.