Budgeting Strategies and Financial Challenges of Student Boarders in Negros Oriental State University

Financial management has become a critical concern among college students, particularly student boarders who independently manage limited financial resources while pursuing higher education. This study examined the budgeting strategies and financial challenges of student boarders at Negros Oriental State University (NORSU). Specifically, the study identified the respondents’ demographic profiles, budgeting strategies, financial management practices, financial challenges, and coping mechanisms. A descriptive-correlational research design was employed involving 85 student boarders residing in boarding houses, dormitories, and apartments near the university. Data were gathered through a validated structured questionnaire and analyzed using frequency counts, percentages, weighted mean, standard deviation, Pearson Product-Moment Correlation, and regression analysis. Findings revealed that most respondents were aged 23–24 years old, predominantly female, and primarily residing in boarding houses with monthly allowances ranging from ₱4,001–₱5,000. Student boarders generally demonstrated effective budgeting strategies, particularly in prioritizing essential expenses, monitoring expenditures, and planning for unexpected expenses. However, respondents also experienced considerable financial management challenges caused by limited allowances, increasing living costs, and difficulty balancing academic and personal expenses. Despite these challenges, students employed adaptive coping mechanisms such as reducing unnecessary expenditures, saving portions of their allowances, and seeking affordable alternatives. The study concluded that budgeting strategies significantly influence the financial stability and resilience of student boarders. The findings emphasize the importance of strengthening financial literacy programs, budgeting education, and student financial wellness initiatives in higher education institutions. The study recommends that universities implement contextualized financial capability programs to support student boarders in managing financial pressures and sustaining academic success.