Impact of stress on academic performance among international degree students at Savonia UAS

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between stress and academic performance among International Degree students at Savonia University of Applied Sciences. International students often face unique stressors which affect their ability to perform academically. The research employed a cross-sectional survey approach, combining quantitative survey data with qualitative insights to capture both the prevailing and the lived experiences of stress and its effect on academic performance as well as highlighting the availability and usability of the institution support systems. The findings reveal that stress significantly affects academic performance for international students with factors like Finnish language barrier, practical training and/or internships, financial difficulties, heavy academic workload, poor social life, loneliness, and homesickness identified as the major stressors. The most utilized support systems included personal study plan (PSP), health services (e.g., FSHS, YTHS), Language support (e.g., Finnish/English courses), students/peer tutoring, while the least utilized support systems included international students’ office, Students Union activities (SAVOTTA), study welfare counsellor services and study counseling and career guidance. however, despite the availability of support systems at the university, results reveal that these systems need improvement to be effective in supporting international students. The research findings contribute to a wider understanding of the academic experience of international degree students at Savonia UAS and for the institution to provide practical implications to maintain Savonia UAS as a great place for learning.