Can studying be considered a substitute for Qiyam al-Layl and other acts of worship, especially during Ramadan, and what is the extent of its effect on the soul?

Ramadan is a season for worship, and preoccupation with studying worldly sciences does not equate to acts of worship. Some of the pious predecessors would stop studying Hadith in Ramadan and busy themselves with the Qur’an, so what about worldly sciences? You are not required to dedicate all your time to worship; rather, read what you can and pray as much as you are able. Combining worship with studying lessons is not difficult.