The central theme of this topic is ensuring that every student ends up in the right place. A closely related challenge is the high number of students who drop out or switch programmes. Every year, between 25% and 30% of students drop out or switch programmes. The ISO advocates measures to reduce (unnecessary) dropouts and switches.

The highest priority within the portfolio is the abolition of the binding study advice (BSA). Research shows that 13% of students who drop out or switch courses indicate that a negative BSA was the reason for this. The ISO has long been of the opinion that the BSA is no longer being used for its original purpose. Instead of supporting students in their study progress, it has become an instrument that puts pressure on students. That is why the ISO remains committed to abolishing the BSA.

In addition, the ISO advocates moving the dropout deadline from 1 February to 1 March. Students currently have until 1 February to decide whether to continue their studies or drop out. Feedback from students indicates that this deadline is too early: many results are not yet known at that point, making it difficult to make an informed choice. Moving this deadline by one month would give students more time to assess their situation.

The ISO will therefore advocate for moving this deadline, including maintaining the right to convert the grant into a gift until 1 March.

The ISO has set the following goals:

• To work towards the abolition of the binding study advice (BSA).
• To advocate for the postponement of the dropout deadline from 1 February to 1 March, including maintaining the conversion of student grants into gifts.