In 2024, the dropout rate among students enrolled in distance education (EAD) programs in Brazil's private institutions reached a historic high of 41.9%. This statistic was released by the Semesp (Union of Institutions Maintaining Higher Education), based on data from the Ministry of Education's Censo do Ensino Superior. The alarming figure sheds light on the challenges faced by students pursuing higher education through online platforms, especially given that over 95% of these students are attending private institutions.

In the same year, Brazil saw a significant shift in its education landscape, as for the first time in history, the number of students enrolled in EAD programs surpassed those in traditional in-person classes. Out of a total of 10.22 million higher education students in Brazil, 5.18 million, or 50.75%, were participating in online programs. This trend prompts a closer examination of the factors contributing to dropout rates in EAD courses, which nearly double those of traditional programs.

The rise in the dropout rate may be linked to various factors, including the quality of online education, the level of student support available, and the unique challenges faced by individuals balancing work and study. As more students opt for distance education, understanding and addressing the reasons for this high dropout rate will be crucial for the future of higher education in Brazil, particularly in ensuring the accessibility and sustainability of EAD programs.