Analysis of Factors Affecting Dependence on National Scholarships: A Focus on the Fiscal Sustainability of Private Universities

Objectives This study aims to analyze the factors influencing universities' dependence on national scholarships and derive measures to enhance the financial stability of higher education. Methods The analysis was conducted using data from 165 private universities in 2023, based on the academyinfo dataset. Multiple regression analysis was employed to identify the factors influencing dependence on national scholarships. Results Small and non-metropolitan universities, as well as those with a high reliance on tuition revenue, tended to have a higher dependence on national scholarships. In contrast, universities with greater external funding (such as donations and research grants) and higher student enrollment rates exhibited lower reliance on national scholarships. Additionally, regions with higher growth in the school-age population and stronger economic conditions were associated with lower national scholarship dependency. Conclusions While the national scholarship program effectively reduces students' tuition burdens, smaller universities and those located in non-metropolitan areas exhibit a higher dependence on such funding, highlighting the need for targeted policies. Additionally, support measures are required for universities in regions experiencing a decline in the school-age population.