Identifying Key Factors Affecting Academic failure among Mechanical Engineering Students at NEUST

Academic failure is a common problem in engineering programs because of heavy workloads and difficult subjects. This study examined the academic and non-academic factors that contribute to academic failure among Mechanical Engineering students at the Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST). A quantitative descriptive research design was used, with data collected from 270 respondents including students, alumni, and faculty members through a survey questionnaire. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, weighted mean, t-test, and one-way ANOVA. Results showed that difficult engineering subjects and heavy academic workload were the main academic reasons for failure. Financial problems, limited learning resources, and psychological stress were the most important non-academic factors. Differences were found across year level and academic status. The study suggests the need for academic, financial, and student support programs.