Factores asociados al fracaso académico en estudiantes universitarios de Barranquilla (Colombia)

academic failure is a problem faced by students with deficient academic performance. this eventually leads them to drop out or to be expelled of the academic system. this is considered a multi-causal problem, but in order to face it, it is necessary to find out among the affected students, what is the main reason for this. in order to search for the associated factors, a descriptive study was developed with psychology students in a private university of barranquilla. 38 students assisting to a special program for low performance students at risk of being expelled of their programs were interviewed, as well as some others who had been submitted by their teachers. results indicate that these students had not received professional orientation before starting their undergraduate studies, which would have allowed them to analyze their capabilities and abilities with respect to a professional career. they also report some limitations in their concentration and attention abilities, in time distribution, deficient use of study techniques, low class assistance due to lack of motivation in academic activities. they rated as satisfactory their family relations. it was observed that the actions to be taken to reduce failure must be developed before registering at the university. they should include study and management strategies that would offer students better opportunities to develop their interests and abilities in the options offered by the society in which they will live.