IntroductionIn recent years, a growing number of researchers have begun to study fertility awareness (FA). Evidence suggests that college students in their reproductive years have a common understanding of fertility, risk factors for infertility, and assisted reproductive technologies. Therefore, this systematic review summarizes these studies and explores the factors affecting college students’ fertility awareness.MethodsA systematic literature search of databases (PUBMED/MEDLINE, Cochrane, Web of Science, Embase, and EBSCO) was conducted from inception to September 2022. Studies that assessed the levels of fertility awareness and factors influencing college students were considered for the review. The qualities of the included studies were evaluated using the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology guidelines. This systematic review is reported according to the preferred reporting items for systematic review (PRISMA) guidelines.ResultsTwenty-one articles met the eligibility criteria and were included. The preliminary results showed that participants reported low to moderate FA. Female medical students demonstrated higher levels of fertility awareness. The association between age, years of education, and FA was insufficient.ConclusionThe results of the current study suggest that increased FA interventions are warranted, especially for the male, non-medical student population. Governments and educational institutions should strengthen education programs for young students on reproductive health to help them raise awareness about childbirth, and society should provide family support for young people.Supplementary InformationThe online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12978-023-01628-6.