Premarital guidance based on the prepare model (premarital preparation and relationship enhancement) to improve students’ readiness for marriage

The low level of marriage readiness among college students is a significant issue in the field of Guidance and Counseling, as it is linked to high rates of marital conflict and divorce among young married couples. Research on PREPARE-model-based premarital guidance services for college students remains relatively limited, particularly in the context of higher education institutions in Indonesia. This study aims to test the effectiveness of PREPARE (Premarital Preparation and Relationship Enhancement)-based premarital guidance in improving students’ readiness for marriage. The study employs a quantitative approach using a pre-experimental method through a one-group pretest-posttest design. The sample consisted of 20 students from Muhammadiyah University of Tasikmalaya selected using purposive sampling. Data collection was conducted using a marriage readiness scale, while data analysis was performed using a paired sample t-test, effect size, and the Reliable Change Index (RCI) using the JASP application. The results of the study indicate an increase in students’ marriage readiness after participating in PREPARE-model-based premarital guidance services. These findings reinforce the relationship education approach as part of preventive services in Guidance and Counseling and can serve as a foundation for the development of premarital education programs in higher education settings.