Academic Performance and Quality of Life among University Students

Abstract

Objective: To examine the relationship between academic performance (AP) and quality of life factors among students from universities in Sonora, Mexico, specifically in terms of physical well-being, psychological well-being, social relationships, and the environment. Methods: A quantitative, non-experimental, cross-sectional study with a correlational design was conducted. A non-probabilistic convenience sample of 112 university students from Administration, Psychology, and Social Work programs was included. The University Academic Performance Scale (RAU) and the WHOQOL-BREF were used to assess academic performance and quality of life, respectively. Results: Moderate levels of both AP and quality of life were found. No significant differences in AP were observed based on sex; however, significant differences were found in the dimensions of psychological health and environment. Positive and significant associations were identified between AP and quality of life. Psychological health was the strongest predictor of AP. Physical health showed a significant association with AP in the initial model; however, its effect decreased after incorporating psychological and social variables into the hierarchical regression model. Conclusions: Psychological well-being was identified as a relevant factor associated with academic performance, highlighting the importance of emotional conditions and contextual factors in students’ academic development.