Exploring Barriers to University Exit Exams from the Perspective of Students at Dire Dawa University in Ethiopia: A Qualitative Study

Background: University students face different challenges on the exit exam. However, since it is new in Ethiopia (started in 2023), there is a lack of data about their specific challenges, both nationally and in the study region. Purpose: This study aimed at exploring barriers to university exit exams from the perspective of students at Dire Dawa University in Ethiopia, which can help with interventions. Methods: This qualitative study was conducted at Dire Dawa University between August and September 2023. Study setting, and participants selected using the purposive and convenience sampling techniques respectively. Participants interviewed individually between 45 and 60 minutes using a semi-structured interview guide with the assistance of a voice recorder and field notes. The data were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using a thematic approach. Results: Five main themes emerged from the data: limited awareness, opposing arguments, lack of motivation, commitment, and time, quality of the exit exam questions, and ineffective higher education institution. Conclusion: University students face various challenges that emanate from students, higher education institutions, and the Federal Ministry of Education. Therefore, the Federal Ministry of Education, higher education leaders, and teachers recommended improving the barriers and conducting multi-perspective research to better address these barriers.