What is the ruling regarding a father refusing to marry off his Muslim daughter to a religious man, due to his insistence that she complete her studies?

It is not permissible for a father to refuse to marry off his daughter to someone whose religious commitment and character are pleasing, under the pretext of completing her studies. This is considered an act of 'adhl (unjust prevention of marriage), based on the saying of the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him: "If someone whose religious commitment and character you approve comes to you, then marry [your daughter] to him. If you do not do so, there will be tribulation on earth and widespread corruption." It is advisable to try to convince the father through mediation by someone who holds influence with him. If he refuses, the matter can be raised with the Sharia courts or Islamic centers to compel him to accept or to transfer the guardianship.