The relationship between academic achievement, health behaviors, and school climate among university students

This study aimed to examine whether academic achievement among university students is associated with school climate, health-promoting and protective behaviours, demographic characteristics, accommodation, and employment status. The study population consisted of 1,155 s- and third-year students enrolled at Karabük University. Categorical variables were analyzed using the chi-square test, and relationships between variables were examined with Spearman’s correlation coefficient. Logistic regression analysis was conducted with subjective and objective academic achievement as the dependent variables. Students who were employed, smoked, consumed alcohol, skipped regular breakfast or exercise, or reported irregular sleep patterns were less likely to have higher academic achievement (p < 0.05). Students with a history of consulting a doctor for mental health reasons also reported lower academic achievement (p < 0.05), whereas those living with their families reported higher achievement (p < 0.05). Third-year students had lower academic performance compared to second-year students (p < 0.05). School climate and its subdimensions, as well as health-promoting behaviours, were positively associated with both subjective academic achievement and grade point average (p < 0.05). These findings suggest that academic achievement may be related to healthy lifestyle habits, a positive school climate, and social support. Universities may consider developing programs that promote healthy living and implementing policies that foster a supportive school environment to help support students’ academic engagement and well-being.