Researchers found that 5.6% of undergraduate and graduate students surveyed identified as caregivers. 3.2% cared for someone who was chronically ill or aging, and 2.9% cared for a minor. These students were disproportionately women, graduate students, financial aid recipients, and enrolled part time. Such students had lower average GPAs and a higher likelihood to report depression and anxiety symptoms. It is recommended institutions proactively identify such students and design policies to minimize emotional and academic risk factors.
