The author systematically performed a quantitative research study of the factors associated with academic  performance  from a socioeconomic  point  of view in students from Universidad de Costa Rica. Using multiple regression  models, the author  analyzed factors associated  with the academic  performance of students awarded  the  highest  level of scholarship  because  of their socioeconomic  status  and  students not  applying  for a scholarship  because  they  are enrolled  in majors with high or low demand at Universidad de Costa Rica. This paper provides an explanatory framework on the subject, as well as inputs for the management of public higher education. One of the  main findings indicates  that  academic  performance is a multicausal  and  highly complex phenomenon. The paper  also highlights  the  main  institutional, pedagogical, and  psychosocial factors associated with academic performance, taking into account the socioeconomic component.

Academic performance; higher education; academic performance in college students; academic performance and socioeconomic status; University of Costa Rica