The Effect of Administrative Mechanisms of Higher Education Financing Students’ Loan Scheme on Equitable Access to University Education in Uganda

This study examined the effect of loan administration mechanisms on equitable access to university education in Uganda. The study was driven by the neoliberal notion of equitable access rooted in the social inclusion theory. It was quantitative, cross-sectional survey research design. Data was collected using a closed ended questionnaire from 217 students who were beneficiaries of the loan scheme, randomly selected from four universities. Analysis of data at univariate level was done using measures of central tendency. At bivariate level, Pearson’s correlation and simple linear regression analysis was used. Findings revealed that mechanisms of loan administration had a positive significant effect on equitable access to university education in Uganda. The study concludes that effective mechanisms of loan administration enhances access to university education. It is recommended that to improve equitable access to university education, the Uganda Higher Education Financing Board should improve on loan administration mechanisms by addressing information needs of prospective applicants; promote equity in loan among loan beneficiaries. Key words: Access to higher education, Student loan, Loan administration DOI: 10.7176/JEP/16-11-18 Publication date: October 30th 2025