What Defines the University Choice? The Case of Higher Education in Kyrgyzstan

This study analysed the effectiveness of university promotion methods and factors affecting applicants' choices. The study used a quantitative approach with a sample of 7839 university applicants. Results show that the most influential factor affecting university choice is the economic factors such as tuition fees, scholarships, etc.; nevertheless, family income is not among them. Education quality and academic staff also affect the choice. Besides, there were differences in the factors such as gender, region, family structure and secondary school background of the applicants.