Abstract:
This study attempts to provide a structured framework for designing student loan systems by identifying the perquisites for establishing an effective program and the factors that should be avoided to prevent inefficiency and misuse. It draws on a comparative analysis of public and private student loan models in 23 countries and includes detailed case studies of four selected countries. The study examines the institutional and structural challenges that shape these systems and analyzes how variations in subsidy levels, financial need assessments, and eligibility criteria influence access to higher education across different contexts. The aim is to highlight best practices that support fair, effective, and sustainable financing models. The study is organized into three main sections in addition to the introduction. Section 1 presents a global overview of student loan systems, followed by four country case studies in Section 2, while Section 3 concludes, offering the core design elements needed for developing a robust student loan system.
