Determinants of eHealth literacy among university students: a systematic review

Background

eHealth literacy is essential for navigating online health information, particularly among university students who are highly exposed to digital environments. However, determinants influencing eHealth literacy in this population remain fragmented, limiting the development of targeted public health interventions.

Objectives

To identify and synthesise quantitative evidence on determinants of eHealth literacy among university students.

Methods

This systematic review follows a PROSPERO-registered protocol (CRD420261330129; March 2026). Search was conducted between 7 and 17 March 2026 in PubMed, Scopus and SSCI, complemented by grey literature and citation tracking. A total of 67 studies have been identified for inclusion to date. Data extraction and quality appraisal are being conducted independently by two reviewers. Findings are being synthesised narratively, with meta-analysis where feasible.

Results

Preliminary findings identify four domains of determinants: sociodemographic, academic, digital/behavioral, and psychosocial. Across studies, digital competencies and patterns of internet use are consistently reported as positively associated with eHealth literacy. Lower socioeconomic status and academic performance are frequently linked to lower eHealth literacy levels. Although analyses are ongoing, the direction of associations is consistent across heterogeneous study settings.

Conclusions

eHealth literacy among university students is shaped by multiple, modifiable determinants, particularly digital skills and socioeconomic factors. These preliminary findings support public health actions such as integrating digital health literacy into higher education curricula and targeting interventions towards students with lower digital competencies and socioeconomic disadvantages. Strengthening collaboration between public health and education sectors may contribute to reducing digital health inequalities in this population.

Key messages

• eHealth literacy in university students is shaped by digital skills and socioeconomic factors, highlighting key targets for reducing digital health inequalities.

• Integrating digital health literacy into higher education can strengthen students’ ability to use online health information and support more equitable health outcomes.