University students in the northern West Bank encounter academic, social, and political pressures that can undermine mental health. Mindfulness—defined as non-judgmental awareness of the present moment—has proven benefits for psychological well-being, yet its prevalence among Palestinian first-year students is largely unknown. This study investigated mindfulness levels among first-year undergraduates in northern West Bank universities and examined variations by gender, place of residence, monthly family income, and academic major. A quantitative descriptive–analytical approach was employed using an electronic questionnaire that included the Arabic version of the 15-item Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS). The sample consisted of 431 first-year students drawn from multiple universities. Descriptive statistics and inferential tests were used to assess group differences. Results revealed a relatively low mean mindfulness score (3.06/5). No significant differences emerged by gender or residence, whereas family income showed a significant effect: students from households earning 2,000–2,900 shekels reported higher mindfulness than other income groups. Academic major was also significant, with humanities students exhibiting greater mindfulness than peers in scientific or medical programs. The overall low mindfulness levels suggest a tendency toward mental distraction and limited present-moment engagement, likely influenced by academic demands, socioeconomic stressors, and the broader context of political instability. Universities are encouraged to integrate structured mindfulness activities into curricular and extracurricular programs, particularly within high-pressure fields such as medicine and engineering, to enhance students’ focus, stress management, and resilience.

Keywords: Mindfulness, First-Year Students, Palestinian Universities, Northern West Bank.