Student Financial Wellness Survey 2025
Overview
The?Trellis Strategies Student Financial Wellness Survey (SFWS) provides an overview of student wellbeing including financial security, basic needs, mental health, and perceptions of college support and value.
In fall 2025, 21,103 PCC students were invited to complete the online survey, with 2,409 students responding (11.4%).? In general, respondents reflected the overall population, although females and full-time students were more likely to respond.
Fall 2025 key findings
PCC faculty and staff can access the Trellis Strategies 40-page report and infographic for the 2025 findings, along with the same materials from the 2024 survey, on the Institutional Effectiveness Spaces page (Surveys section).? Below is an AI-assisted summary of key findings from the 2025 report.
- Financial Strain is Widespread:? Over half of respondents would struggle to cover a $500 emergency, and 71% report experiencing financial difficulties.? Many rely on credit cards or short-term borrowing to meet basic needs.
- Basic Needs Insecurity is Common:
- 45% of respondents experience food insecurity
- 47% face housing challenges
- 60% experience at least one form of basic needs insecurity
- Academic Impact:? Financial stress affects students’ ability to focus, with more than half of those facing challenges reporting difficulty concentrating on coursework.
- Mental Health Concerns:? 36% of respondents report symptoms of depression and 50% report anxiety, with many also experiencing loneliness.
- Support Gaps:? While most respondents believe support services exist, more than half have not sought help, and many are unaware of available resources.
- Education Still Valued:? Despite these challenges, respondents remain optimistic—76% believe college is a worthwhile investment in their future.