Lucy Bulmer

• The Perceived Impact of Financial Constraints on Academic Performance Among Medical Students
• MBBS

In 2024, the British Medical Association found that 43% of medical students had considered leaving their course due to financial pressures. Few studies, however, have examined how those who remain in medicine manage the academic demands alongside such financial hardship. This study explored the perceived impact of financial constraints on the academic performance of medical students in Years 3 -5 at Newcastle University.

The findings suggest that financial stress can impact students across all backgrounds, influencing concentration, exam outcomes, and access to academic opportunities. Notably, 62% reported that finances limited their ability to engage in academics and extracurriculars. Coping strategies varied; students with family support, bursaries, or flexible work reported greater stability, while others described skipping meals, working long hours, or resitting exams.

This research highlights financial stress as an academic issue and calls for targeted institutional support, flexible work opportunities, and policy changes to promote equity in medical education.