Study goals
In this research, our objective was to identify the effect of financial problems on students' motivation to continue in a Higher Education Institution in the Distance Education modality.
Relevance / originality
Our results indicate that the stress that financial problems bring makes individuals move to study even if out of obligation to conclude as soon as possible and have the diploma.
Methodology / approach
We carried out a quantitative and exploratory research. 271 students from an HEI EAD participated in the research. We collected data using validated scales which were analyzed in SPSS for Windows version 23 and we used PROCESS.
Main results
The results indicate that the main factors that influence students' individual motivation and, consequently, their retention in the HEI, are financial problems, stress and social interaction.
Theoretical / methodological contributions
Financial problems generate stress, and this generates more extrinsic motivation. That is, no matter what or how the student is learning, it is the physical and external factors that influence their motivation.
Social / management contributions
Reviewing faculty and student body management policies and practices, paying more attention to the demands and expectations of new student profiles, with a view to promoting an environment conducive to learning, is important for student motivation and retention.