Educational equality during COVID-19: A study of socioeconomic disparities in higher education access and outcomes in Guangxi, China

This study examines how COVID-19 affected educational disparities among 652 university students in Guangxi, China, through quantitative cross-sectional analysis. Data collected via online survey in spring 2022 captured demographic variables, resource access, and academic performance across diverse institution types. Results show significant differences: 28.3% of low-income students lacked adequate digital tools versus 8.7% of high-income peers; 37.8% of low-SES students reported grade declines-nearly double the high-SES rate. Regression analysis identifies SES as a significant predictor of learning effectiveness (β = 0.25, p < 0.001), with teacher and family support moderating its impact. Psychological distress was prevalent, particularly among rural and female students, yet only 15% accessed institutional support services. Findings align with social reproduction theories and identify potential policy interventions to address these disparities in higher education during emergency contexts.