Academic Fatigue in Asian Higher Education: A Thematic Literature Review

Abstract

Academic fatigue is an emerging challenge in higher education across Asia, with far-reaching effects on students’ motivation, academic performance, and mental health. It is often driven by high academic pressure, competitive learning environments, and institutional constraints. Beyond individual struggles, academic fatigue impacts graduation rates, retention, and the global standing of Asian universities. Understanding its underlying causes is therefore essential to sustaining quality higher education in the region. This study aims to identify and analyze the key factors contributing to academic fatigue among students in Asian higher education institutions through a thematic literature review. A systematic search of 25 peer-reviewed articles indexed in Scopus and Web of Science (WoS) was conducted, focusing on publications between 2020 and 2025. Articles were selected based on inclusion criteria addressing academic fatigue in Asian university students. Data were analyzed using qualitative thematic analysis, which involved open coding, thematic grouping, and the construction of conceptual categories to generate an integrated understanding of recurring patterns. The findings of this review reveal eight central themes contributing to academic fatigue: (1) sociodemographic influences such as gender, socioeconomic status, and family background; (2) pressures related to field of study selection and academic pathways; (3) academic stress stemming from workload, exams, and performance expectations; (4) psychosocial stress linked to anxiety, emotional exhaustion, and depression; (5) financial and economic constraints that exacerbate student vulnerability; (6) safety-related stress including campus security and public health concerns; (7) the influence of social media on academic distraction and psychological strain; (8) time management difficulties, including the emerging impact of scopophobia (fear of being observed), which further hinders student engagement and performance. Academic fatigue significantly increases the risk of student dropout, compromises well-being, and reduces the effectiveness of long-term learning in higher education. Although this study is limited by its reliance on secondary data, the findings emphasize the urgent need for holistic interventions. Higher education institutions in Asia should adopt inclusive education policies and mental health strategies that balance academic achievement with student well-being. By addressing the diverse stressors identified, institutions can improve retention, foster resilience, and ensure the sustainability of higher education in the region.