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Perceived Barriers to Academic Success Among University Students: A Cross-Sectional Study

Author

Listed:
  • Nur Faezah Jamal

    (Faculty of Computer and Mathematical Sciences, University Technology MARA, Perak Branch, Tapah Campus, Malaysia)

  • Nurhasniza Idham Abu Hasan

    (Faculty of Computer and Mathematical Sciences, University Technology MARA, Perak Branch, Tapah Campus, Malaysia)

  • Isma Liana Ismail

    (Faculty of Computer and Mathematical Sciences, University Technology MARA, Perak Branch, Tapah Campus, Malaysia)

  • Mohd Zaki Awang Chek

    (Faculty of Computer and Mathematical Sciences, University Technology MARA, Perak Branch, Tapah Campus, Malaysia)

Abstract

University students must overcome numerous obstacles that greatly challenge their academic success. Understanding the factors and triggers of barriers to academic success is essential for enhancing the academic achievement and well-being of university students. A cross-sectional study was conducted to identify the most common types of barriers and assess their severity among university students. Data were collected through an online questionnaire provided to 320 university students in Malaysia. The response was analyzed using descriptive statistics, and this study also used Likert scale items that measure the severity of various obstacles to academic success. This study reveals that personal and academic barriers, including a lack of motivation, mental health challenges, difficulty understanding course materials, and a heavy workload, are among the most commonly reported challenges. On the other hand, financial barriers and institutional barriers present minor to moderate challenges for students. Therefore, understanding the obstacles that these students face can guide educators and policymakers to plan a more conducive learning environment for student success.

Suggested Citation

  • Nur Faezah Jamal & Nurhasniza Idham Abu Hasan & Isma Liana Ismail & Mohd Zaki Awang Chek, 2025. "Perceived Barriers to Academic Success Among University Students: A Cross-Sectional Study," International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), vol. 9(9), pages 1378-1386, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:bcp:journl:v:9:y:2025:issue-9:p:1378-1386
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Daniel Lovin & Denis Bernardeau-Moreau, 2022. "Stress among Students and Difficulty with Time Management: A Study at the University of Galați in Romania," Social Sciences, MDPI, vol. 11(12), pages 1-13, November.
    2. Naneh Apkarian & Charles Henderson & Marilyne Stains & Jeffrey Raker & Estrella Johnson & Melissa Dancy, 2021. "What really impacts the use of active learning in undergraduate STEM education? Results from a national survey of chemistry, mathematics, and physics instructors," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 16(2), pages 1-15, February.
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