A decision support system for university admission policies

This paper presents the methodology and the components of a decision support system (DSS) for developing student admission policies to the university. The university decision makers’ needs and the DSS components are identified. The DSS is based on three modelling components: (i)The academic performance analysis model. (ii)Models to estimate secondary school graduates supply and demand for university graduates. (iii)Student allocation model. The academic performance model consists of two parts: a multi-Classification analysis (MCA) and cohort analysis. The estimation models are based on demographic growth and regression analysis. A linear programming model is used for student allocation. Loose coupling of, instead of single linked, model(s) is adopted to provide the DM with an iterative and flexible linkage approach of the DSS modelling components. On the basis of three years use, the DSS has received positive reaction from the university’s decision makers.