EVASION IN PUBLIC HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS IN BRAZIL: A QUANTITATIVE ANALYSIS

Abstract

Dropout is a major problem for higher education. In addition to knowing the factors that contribute to the loss of students, it is also necessary to know the data and indices that quantify dropout rates. Furthermore, the lack of consensus on how to calculate dropout student rates makes it difficult to implement effective public policies to reduce this problem. After a bibliographical survey, this study calculated dropout rates in Brazilian higher education in the period from 2016 to 2020, using data from the National Institute of Educational Studies and Research (INEP) that are made available annually through the Statistical Synopses of Higher Education (SEES). The analysis focused on public Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), calculating dropout rates for Brazil, Brazilian regions and states. The methodology applied used an adapted formula to calculate dropout rates and analyze available data, demonstrating the need for more specific approaches and quantitative studies to understand regional particularities and formulate effective strategies for reducing dropout rates in Brazilian higher education. The results revealed a national average of annual dropout rates of 17.19%, with significant variations between regions. The north, south and central-west regions presented rates above the national average. On the other hand, the northeast and southeast had rates below average.