Exploring Motivational Factors Influencing Senior High School Students' Aspirations Toward Higher Education: Evidence from Sukamara Regency, Indonesia

Muhammad Toasin Asa (Politeknik Negeri Pontianak)
Muhammad Ali (Politeknik Negeri Pontianak)
Liliyana (Politeknik Negeri Pontianak)
Evi Sofiana (Politeknik Negeri Pontianak)

International Journal of Research in Vocational Studies (IJRVOCAS)
Vol. 6 No. 2 (2026): IJRVOCAS - August

This study investigates the internal and external factors associated with senior high school students' interest in pursuing higher education in Sukamara Regency, Indonesia. Data were collected from 277 Grade XI and XII students across 14 schools using a structured questionnaire. Grounded in Expectancy-Value and Self-Determination Theories, 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, medium-sized association between gender and higher education interest, with female students displaying stronger aspirations (p < .001, Cramér’s V = 0.254). While parental education and school type did not show significant categorical differences, a significant monotonic trend indicated that student interest tends to increase with higher parental education levels. The findings highlight strong intrinsic motivation among students in this region, despite external challenges. Policy implications emphasize enhancing institutional credibility, strengthening familial support systems, and expanding accessible higher education infrastructure.