Exploring Financial Challenges and University Support Systems for Student Financial Well-Being: A Scoping Review

Joanna Russell, Kylie Austin, Karen E. Charlton, Ezinne O. Igwe, Katherine Kent, Kelly Lambert, Gabrielle O’Flynn, Yasmine Probst, Karen Walton and Anne T. McMahon ()
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Joanna Russell: School of Health and Society, Faculty of the Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
Kylie Austin: Student, Equity, and Success, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
Karen E. Charlton: School of Medical, Indigenous, and Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, Medicine, and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
Ezinne O. Igwe: School of Medical, Indigenous, and Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, Medicine, and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
Katherine Kent: School of Medical, Indigenous, and Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, Medicine, and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
Kelly Lambert: School of Medical, Indigenous, and Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, Medicine, and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
Gabrielle O’Flynn: School of Education, Faculty of the Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
Yasmine Probst: School of Medical, Indigenous, and Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, Medicine, and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
Karen Walton: School of Medical, Indigenous, and Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, Medicine, and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
Anne T. McMahon: School of Medical, Indigenous, and Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, Medicine, and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia

IJERPH, 2025, vol. 22, issue 3, 1-15

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Financial stress among university students has been widely documented, impacting academic performance, mental health, and overall well-being. This scoping review explores and synthesizes the existing evidence on the extent and impact of financial challenges experienced by university students in Australia and New Zealand and examines approaches implemented by universities in these countries to address these challenges. Methods: The Arksey and O’Malley framework was utilized for comprehensiveness, structure, and reproducibility. Four scientific databases (Scopus, ProQuest, Web of Science, and Informit) were searched until 30 June 2024, and 3542 articles were identified. Following extensive screening, 19 studies were included. The studies were summarized using a narrative synthesis approach. Results: This review suggests that financial stress continues to be experienced by Australian/New Zealand university students. Some studies indicate that over half (8–68%) of students face significant financial issues and 96% of students report high emotional stress. Some groups are more vulnerable than others. Notably, students from low socio-economic status (SES) backgrounds and international students have increased vulnerability due to factors such as inadequate financial support and limited access to job opportunities and support services. Support services available for students included emergency grants, food pantries (including international students), and community gardens but with limited impact in addressing underlying financial hardships. Conclusion: This review highlights the persistent financial challenges faced by vulnerable university students in Australia and New Zealand. It calls for comprehensive strategies to enhance support services and address structural issues in government and institutional policies. Addressing these needs will enable improved student academic success and mental and physical well-being in these vulnerable groups.

Keywords: financial challenges; food insecurity; student well-being; university students; support services (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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