Rising rents and their impact on student mental health

The study aims to examine how rising rental housing costs impact the academic performance of Hanoi college students through two mediator variables and to explore potential qualitative factors that may also play a role.

Given the increasing rental prices in Hanoi, students may face financial burdens influencing  their ability to focus on academics.

The research employs both qualitative and quantitative methods, including in-depth interviews with ten university students in Hanoi, and collecting data from a sample of more than 700 students.

Research model

Research Results

The study reveals some interesting findings. First, rising rental fees significantly affect students’ financial stability, leading to stress, anxiety, and reduced study efficiency. Financially disadvantaged students struggle more with educational equity, as they may lack access to resources such as private tutoring or high-quality study environments.

Second, while existing literature suggests that financial stress can negatively impact academic outcomes, our study does not find any direct relationship between rental fees and Hanoi college students’ academic performance. However, it does confirm that students from lower-income backgrounds face greater challenges.

Third, family conditions, including family income and family status significantly influence academic performance. Students from higher-income families report better academic outcomes compared to those from lower-income households

Hypothesis testing results

Research Implications

The study provides several practical recommendations:

●          For Students: Budgeting strategies, seeking scholarships, and sharing rental costs can help alleviate financial pressure. Universities should provide more financial literacy programs.

●          For Universities: Expanding dormitory facilities, offering rental assistance, and collaborating with landlords to secure affordable housing options can support students.

●      For Policymakers: Government agencies should regulate rental markets and introduce financial aid programs for students affected by rising rental fees.

Conclusion

Living condition of Hanoi college students

The study examined the impact of rising rental fees on Hanoi college students’ mental health, educational equity, and academic performance through mediating variables.

Contrary to expectations, increased rental fees did not directly affect these outcomes; instead, only family conditions—particularly income and status—significantly influenced academic performance, highlighting the importance of socioeconomic background.

Analysis of 685 respondents showed that while many students already manage financial strain through part-time work and family support, factors like tuition and living conditions did not directly correlate with academic success.

However, limitations such as the geographically limited sample and potential measurement challenges suggest that future research should use broader samples and refined instruments. Collaboration among policymakers, universities, and community organizations—especially through supporting family stability and financial literacy programs—is recommended to enhance student well-being and academic achievement