The COVID-19 pandemic caused unprecedented disruptions in the education sector, significantly impacting the academic experiences of Indian school-going students. This scoping review examines the direct and indirect factors that contributed to challenges encountered by students during the pandemic. A systematic search across PubMed and Scopus identified 367 articles. Following the screening process, a total of 12 articles were analysed. The key themes emerging from the review include challenges posed by technology and online classes, lack of motivation, limited educational resources, self-management difficulties, and emotional distress. Additionally, factors such as the absence of socialization and motivation, increased screen time, and rising reliance on social media were significant contributors to negative academic experiences. The shift to online learning environments intensified pre-existing inequalities, particularly for marginalized and low-income students, amplifying disparities in their educational access. The findings emphasize the need for strengthened mental-health support, integration of cognitive and behavioural skills into curricula, and equitable access to educational resources to address both immediate and long-term difficulties. Consequently, the study calls for future research that prioritises regional and cultural inclusivity to develop strategies that support students’ academic recovery and overall well-being. Such efforts are essential in creating a resilient and inclusive educational framework that alleviates the lingering effects of the pandemic.