Systematic Literature Review on Academic Satisfaction

Academic satisfaction is a key indicator of higher education quality, reflecting students’ overall evaluation of their academic experiences. This systematic review synthesizes research from 2014 to 2025, exploring definitions, measurement tools, determinants, and outcomes of academic satisfaction globally. Grounded in Expectation-Disconfirmation, Social Cognitive, and Self-Determination theories, it highlights the multidimensional nature of satisfaction influenced by individual, institutional, and socio-cultural factors. Academic satisfaction strongly correlates with academic performance, well-being, retention, and career readiness. Emerging research focuses on digital learning, cross-cultural differences, and academic emotions. The review provides evidence-based recommendations for enhancing teaching, curriculum, support services, and institutional policies to improve student satisfaction and educational effectiveness.