Background:

Access to higher education is a crucial factor in achieving sustainable development and inequality. However financial constraints often pose significant barriers to students particularly in developing countries [1] Numerous studies have highlighted the impact of financial challenges on students who are studying at university as the problem has become globally. [1]

The current economic climate in Tanzania is influenced by various factors, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, government policies, global market conditions, and internal economic climate and its impact on the cost of education in Tanzania. The Tanzanian government has been increasing its investment in education in recent years. However, limited resources and competing priority like health sectors affects the extent of funding allocated to the education sector, thus affecting the availability and quality of education resources. ([2]

A study by Johnson et al.2019) in the United States found that financial stress negatively affects student’s mental health and academic performance [3]. Teshome (2008) assessed the challenges facing higher education in Africa. Inadequate finance and inability to diversify funding were some of the notable challenges.[4]
According to Ahmad (2019), the majority of respondents in a study on financial management trends among students who received students’ loan at university Putra Malaysia (UPM) felt that the amount of loans they obtained was insufficient to cover the cost of living and education.[5]

Also previous research conducted in Tanzania has shown that a significant number of university face financial difficulties [6].

These challenges include higher tuition fees, limited access to scholarships and grants, and the rise in cost of living. A study done by Mwangoka (et al 2008) found that financial constraints were one of the main reasons of university dropouts in Tanzania. [6]

This research aimed to shed light on specific challenges faced by university student at Catholic University of Health and Allied Science (CUHAS)Bugando in Mwanza. This understanding helped to identify key areas where support is needed the most. It also contributed to the development of targeted interventions and policies that can alleviate these challenges and ensure equitable access to higher education.