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Abstract
This study investigates the impact of hostel environments on the academic performance of university students in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR). A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative data from structured questionnaires with qualitative insights from in-depth interviews. The sample comprised 500 students, evenly split between hostel residents and day scholars. The findings reveal that hostel students have significantly higher GPAs, with a mean of 3.6 compared to 3.2 for day scholars. Statistical analyses indicate that this difference is significant (t = 8.49, p < 0.05). Hostel students reported greater satisfaction with academic resources and study environments, scoring a mean of 4.4 out of 5 for study spaces, while day scholars rated theirs at 3.8. Additionally, peer support was markedly higher among hostel students, with a mean score of 4.5 versus 3.9 for day scholars. Qualitative data highlighted benefits such as structured environments and supportive peer networks, although challenges like noise and lack of privacy were noted. These results underscore the critical role of hostel environments in fostering academic success. Universities should enhance hostel facilities and support systems to maximize student outcomes.