This thesis, “Improving Student Loans in Zimbabwean Higher Education: A Case Study of Midlands State University,” addresses critical issues in the accessibility and effectiveness of student loans at MSU. The study explores barriers to accessing student loans, such as bureaucratic inefficiencies, stringent requirements, procedural delays, high interest rates, inflexible repayment schedules, and lack of transparency, all of which are exacerbated by Zimbabwe’s economic instability. The study uses qualitative research methods. To improve loan accessibility, the study recommends reformulating eligibility criteria to focus on students’ financial need and academic performance, introducing alternative repayment options such as work-study programs, improving communication through workshops, and offering fixed-rate loans and emergency funds. Collaboration with government and the private sector for loan guarantees or subsidies is also proposed. Drawing on Credit Rationing Theory, the study provides a framework for policymakers and administrators to create a more inclusive and supportive financial environment, encouraging higher educational attainment and economic mobility.

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This thesis, "Improving Student Loans in Zimbabwean Higher Education: A Case Study of Midlands State University," addresses critical issues in student loan accessibility and effectiveness at MSU. The study explores the obstacles to accessing student loans, such as bureaucratic inefficiencies, stringent requirements, procedural delays, high-interest rates, inflexible repayment schedules, and a lack of transparency, all exacerbated by Zimbabwe's economic instability. The study used qualitative research method. To improve loan accessibility, the study recommends reformulating eligibility criteria to focus on students' financial needs and academic performance, introducing alternative repayment options such as work-study programs, enhancing communication through workshops, and offering fixed-rate loans and emergency funds. Collaborations with the government and private sector for loan guarantees or subsidies are also proposed. Grounded in Credit Rationing Theory, this research provides a framework for policymakers and administrators to create a more inclusive and supportive financial environment, promoting higher educational attainment and economic mobility.