The survey, conducted by higher education virtual health provider TimelyCare, highlights the significant challenges threatening student success across American campuses.
The research, which gathered responses from 740 students at two- and four-year institutions, found that 53% of current college students have contemplated taking a temporary break from their studies, while 17% have considered abandoning their education altogether. These statistics paint a concerning picture of the state of higher education in America, where completion rates are increasingly threatened by external factors.
Financial strain emerged as a leading concern, with nearly one-third (31%) of respondents citing economic pressures as their primary reason for considering withdrawal. Many students reported relying on a complex patchwork of financial aid, scholarships, and employment to cover their educational expenses. The burden of balancing academic responsibilities with work commitments creates additional stress for these students, potentially compromising their ability to focus on their studies.
Mental health challenges matched financial concerns in severity, with an overwhelming 95% of students identifying at least one obstacle impacting their academic success. Mental health issues (53%) and financial difficulties (49%) topped the list, followed by physical health problems (33%), academic struggles (28%), and social belonging challenges (26%). This multifaceted web of challenges suggests that many students face compounding pressures that make academic success increasingly difficult.
“This study makes it crystal clear that many students are slipping through the cracks due to unmet financial, academic, and emotional needs,” said Dr. Nicole Guerrero Trevino, vice president for student success at TimelyCare. “Our institutions must rise to the occasion to ensure no student is left behind.”
Despite widespread availability of campus resources, with 90% of students having accessed at least one school-provided service, significant barriers remain. Students reported challenges including lack of awareness about available support, inconvenient office hours, and inaccessible locations. These findings suggest that merely offering services is insufficient if students cannot effectively access them when needed.
When asked how institutions could better support student success, respondents offered several concrete suggestions. Many called for more transparent and accessible communication about available resources, with one student suggesting institutions “make a comprehensive list of all resources in one place.” Others emphasized the importance of destigmatizing help-seeking behaviors, noting that it “still feels almost taboo to seek out help in most situations.”
Non-traditional and first-generation students face unique challenges that require tailored approaches. Respondents suggested flexible scheduling options, including evening classes and virtual services, to accommodate those balancing education with work and family responsibilities. “Offer different hours for people who work full time during regular work hours,” recommended one student.
The survey also revealed how students define success, with GPA, knowledge acquisition, and course completion ranking as top priorities, though non-traditional students placed greater emphasis on graduation and knowledge gain over grade point averages. This distinction highlights the diverse perspectives and goals within student populations.
TimelyCare offers virtual success coaching to supplement on-campus resources through an integrated care model, aiming to address the critical gaps identified in the study. Their approach includes mental health counseling, on-demand emotional support, medical care, and various coaching services, providing students with accessible options beyond traditional campus hours.
As colleges and universities navigate these challenges, experts add that the study’s findings underscore the urgent need for innovative approaches to student support that address both mental health concerns and financial pressures while removing barriers to accessing existing resources.
