Financial stress is a persistent challenge for students from economically disadvantaged households and can negatively impact their academic performance and overall well-being. This study examined the level of financial stress experienced by junior high school students and its relationship with academic performance and selected demographic variables, namely age, sex, grade level, and family monthly income. A quantitative descriptive-correlational research design was employed involving 100 junior high school students from Samar National Pilot Opportunity School of Agriculture. Data were gathered using a validated Financial Stress Scale and official academic records. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the respondents’ profile, level of financial stress, stress-related symptoms, and academic performance, while Pearson Product–Moment Correlation was applied to determine relationships among variables. Results revealed that the overall level of financial stress among students was low; however, school-related expenses such as projects, uniforms, and activity contributions emerged as the primary sources of financial strain. Despite the low perceived level of financial stress, a substantial number of students reported experiencing stress-related symptoms, including difficulty concentrating, fatigue, headaches, irritability, and sleep disturbances. The academic performance of the respondents was generally satisfactory to very satisfactory. Correlation analysis indicated a statistically significant relationship between financial stress and academic performance, suggesting that higher levels of financial stress are associated with lower academic performance. Among the demographic variables, family monthly income showed a significant relationship with financial stress, while age, sex, and grade level did not. The findings highlight that financial stress, even at low to moderate levels, remains a relevant factor affecting students’ academic outcomes and well-being. Based on the results, a school-based financial assistance and student support framework is proposed to address both the financial and psychosocial needs of students and to promote sustained academic success in economically disadvantaged school settings.