Association Between Financial Stress and Academic Performance Among Undergraduate Nursing Students in Private Nursing Institutions of Hyderabad, Sindh, Pakistan
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Abstract
Background: Financial stress is an important educational and psychosocial concern among nursing students, particularly in private institutions where tuition fees, accommodation, transport, study materials, and family responsibilities may create substantial financial pressure. Objective: This study aimed to assess the prevalence and sources of financial stress and evaluate its association with academic performance among undergraduate nursing students in private nursing institutions of Hyderabad, Sindh, Pakistan. Methods: The descriptive cross-sectional study design was conducted from January to March 2026 among 384 undergraduate Generic BSN students selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected using a structured self-administered online questionnaire and data were analyzed using SPSS version 25. Frequencies and percentages were calculated, and chi-square tests were applied to examine associations between CGPA and selected variables. Results: Overall, 58.1% of students reported financial stress and 31.8% reported financial stress sometimes. Frequent financial worry was reported by 49.4% of participants. Anxiety or emotional distress was reported by 63.5%, part-time work affecting academics by 63.3%, and reduced motivation by 54.7%. Financial stress was significantly associated with CGPA, χ²(6)=56.08, p<0.001. Conclusion: Financial stress was highly prevalent and significantly associated with academic performance among undergraduate nursing students. Institutional financial support, flexible fee plans, scholarships, and student wellbeing services are recommended
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