Introduction Sleep disturbances have been associated with an increased risk of health problems among higher education students. The purpose of this survey was to determine the prevalence and identify the factors that influence the sleep quality in dormitory students.

Materials and Methods We applied a descriptive and cross-sectional survey. The participants consisted of 249 health sciences students at Semnan University of Medical Sciences. Data were collected through a self-reported reliable and validated questionnaire.

Results the students aged 21.7±1.1 years. In overall, 80.7% of female and 72.1% of male students revealed insufficient sleep. Mental engagement commonly reported as a frequent risk factor for sleep disturbance (53.8%). Uncomfortable sleeping environment in dormitories (p=0.03) and behaviours that cause arousal till midnights (p=0.05) were significantly associated with poor sleep quality. Approximately half of students perceived daytime somnolence as sleep disorder consequence.

Conclusion Our results indicated high prevalence of poor sleep quality among university students. Sleep disorders should be considered a major health concerns among dormitory students. Providing better environmental conditions, training and advisory programs may help to improve students’ sleep quality and academic achievement.