The Determinant Factors of Academic Performance of University Students in Ecuador. A Multilevel Longitudinal Study

Abstract

This study examines determinants of academic performance at a major Ecuadorian university. Results show that sex, parental education, and secondary school type strongly influence achievement, while early low performance predicts dropout risk. Significant variance across schools reflects institutional effects. Practical implications include early academic support, preparatory programs, and early alert systems to improve retention and promote equity in higher education.