<![CDATA[Despite a relatively high Human Development Index, the Gross Enrollment Ratio in Higher Education (APKPT) in Bangka Belitung Province, Indonesia, remains stagnant and is below the national average. This study aims to identify the socio-economic and psychological factors influencing high school graduates from vulnerable families in their choice between higher education and immediate employment. A quantitative survey was conducted on 210 respondents aged 17–23, selected through stratified random sampling. Data were analyzed using binary logistic regression. The findings reveal that 64.3% of respondents prefer working to continuing their education, while only 44.8% express interest in pursuing higher education. Among all variables examined, intrinsic motivation emerged as the only statistically significant factor influencing the decision to pursue higher education. Family income, parental education, access to educational information, perception of the benefits of college, and self-efficacy did not have significant effects. The study concludes that low participation in higher education among vulnerable youth is driven primarily by low intrinsic motivation rather than by financial constraints or limited access to information. Strengthening students' intrinsic motivation and passion for learning is therefore essential for improving college enrollment in the region.]]>
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