Introduction: This article aims to explore models, references, or best practices in the management of electronic documents in higher education institutions through a systematic review. Methodology: The literature review was conducted using the Systematic Literature Review (SLR) protocol proposed by Kitchenham et al. (2009). Results: Results: 667 articles were found in 4 academic databases. Then, 25 articles were accepted and finally the works most closely related to the review object were selected. Discussion: The research identified models, references, best practices, proposals, and recommendations that contribute important components to the management of electronic documents in higher education institutions. Conclusions: There is no single or specific model for the management of electronic documents in higher education institutions. This will depend on government regulations, the policies of each institution, and the documentary reality of the institution. The management of electronic documents is advancing and transforming with the support of technology, but there needs to be more integration of processes and greater awareness for long-term digital preservation to avoid the loss of the documentary heritage of higher education. © 2024, HISIN (History of Information Systems). All rights reserved.