Factors influencing students’ academic performance in Malaysian higher education institutions

The academic performance of students in higher education is influenced by various factors, particularly in Malaysia, where education is a key to socioeconomic advancement. Notable drivers of success include family influence, group discussions, peer interactions, and course assessments. Family influence, encompassing parental involvement and socioeconomic status, plays a crucial role by providing emotional and financial backing. Group discussions and peer interactions enhance collaborative learning and critical thinking, while positive peer influence motivates academic achievement. Course assessments also significantly affect student motivation and learning approaches. This study investigates the impact of these factors on academic performance among 448 students at higher education institutions. This quantitative research collected data through structured questionnaires, employing proportionate stratified random sampling and analysed with Smart PLS 3.2.1. The interplay of these elements in Malaysian higher education underscores the importance of personal, social, and institutional influences, offering insights for educators and policymakers to improve educational outcomes.