Examining the problems experienced by individuals benefiting from student loans during the repayment process

This study aims to evaluate the problems faced by university graduates who have benefited from the student loan program offered in Türkiye since 1962 during the repayment process. Many students choose to use scholarships or student loans to cover educational expenses such as accommodation, tuition, stationery, food, and social activities during their higher education. To evaluate the difficulties experienced in repaying these loans, a case study model, one of the qualitative research methods, was used. The interview technique, a qualitative data collection method, was used to identify the existing problems. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 11 university graduates who had received student loans and subsequently encountered repayment problems. These recordings were transcribed electronically by the researcher before a comprehensive analysis. Significant findings emerged regarding the participants' views on repaying student loans both during and after their studies; their views on various repayment methods; the specific problems they encountered; alternative strategies they used to fulfill their obligations; and the overall impact of borrowing and repayment on their lives. According to the results, unemployment was identified as the most significant obstacle to loan repayment. Based on these findings, recommendations are offered to practitioners and future researchers.