Impact of Emotional Intelligence on Student Well-Being in Higher Education in Latin America: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

Emotional intelligence has gained increasing attention in educational research due to its relationship with student well-being, academic performance, and retention. However, within Higher Education -particularly in the Latin American context- research remains limited and fragmented. This study aims to conduct a systematic review of emotional intelligence and its impact on student well-being in higher education institutions in Latin America. The review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines and included studies retrieved from Scopus, Web of Science, and SciELO databases. A total of 86 articles published between 2010 and 2025 were initially identified, of which 30 met the established inclusion criteria. The analysis reveals that most studies emphasize general emotional skills and academic outcomes, while limited attention is given to individualized and holistic approaches to student development. In particular, the absence of a biopsychosocial perspective restricts the design of comprehensive educational strategies aimed at promoting student well-being, strengthening the educational environment, and reducing dropout rates. The findings highlight the need for higher education institutions to integrate emotional intelligence into broader institutional policies that address students’ emotional, social, and psychological dimensions.