What is the legitimate intention for studying, and is it permissible to study for high marks and to secure one's financial future, and what is the ruling on competition in studying and seeking high grades?

It is permissible for a student to strive diligently in their studies to excel and achieve high grades. Studying becomes an act of worship and a means of drawing closer to God if one intends by it the service of Islam, the benefit of Muslims, the fulfillment of communal obligations (furood al-kifayat), and then earning a lawful livelihood.

There is no harm in feeling sadness and shedding tears when one's grade drops after putting in effort, as long as it does not lead to forbidden words or actions, for "Indeed, Allah does not punish for the tears of the eye or the grief of the heart."

Competition in studying and achieving high grades is permissible, provided it is not accompanied by any religiously forbidden acts such as enmity and hatred, or if it leads to malice and envy. Rather, it should revolve around the meaning of ghibta (envy in a positive sense), which is wishing to have what others have without wishing for the blessing to be removed from them. Thus, competition in obedience is praiseworthy, in sin it is blameworthy, and in permissible matters it is allowed.