Rising Burnout and Dropout Risk Among Working Students in the Philippines
The challenges faced by working university students in the Philippines are becoming increasingly severe. A new report published by Mapúa Malayan Digital College (MMDC) reveals that a significant number of students experience burnout due to the combined pressures of work and education, and many are considering dropping out.
According to the study, 45.2% of respondents reported having seriously considered leaving school due to work or personal pressures. At the same time, 56.1% of students said they sleep five hours or less per night, while 58.1% reported feeling overwhelmed and 49.7% experiencing emotional and mental exhaustion.
The report highlights that Filipino working students are living a “dual full-time” reality. More than 80% of respondents hold full-time jobs while pursuing a university degree. In addition, 43.9% manage a full academic course load alongside a 40-hour work week. This intense schedule leads to time constraints, which 52.9% of students identify as the biggest academic barrier.
The challenges extend beyond academic and professional demands. The report found that 45.2% of respondents are required to work on-site, adding to their already tight schedules and long commuting times. Meanwhile, 41.3% have caregiving responsibilities for family members, and 77.4% provide financial support to others.