Statistical analysis of university student retention strategies during the COVID-19 pandemic

This study presents a statistical analysis of the actions implemented to retain university students. Data from the engineering dean’s office of a private higher education institution in the state of Puebla-Mexico were considered. Nine strategies were implemented to retain students; a 13-item survey was also applied to determine the students’ perception of the support received. It was found that the actions that do favor retention are: Student Support and Follow-up Program (PASE) and solidarity support. On the other hand, the survey was answered by 95 students, of which 70.5% are men and 29.5% are women, who perceive that the support was good and that receiving the economic benefit or maintaining it during the pandemic helped them to remain in the institution and continue with their studies. In this way, it is determined that solidarity and financial support contribute to university students’ retention.