Purpose: The application of Lean principles, tools and practices to Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) can bring great advantages to public HEIs, since this type of organization has budgetary limitations and challenges in managing processes efficiently. However, it is important to understand the difficulties involved in the implementation in public HEIs. Therefore, the objective of this study is to carry out a systematic literature review on the implementation of Lean in public HEIs to identify the main barriers. Study design/methodology/approach: The method used was a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) which encompassed the search in two databases, Scopus and Web of Science. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, 21 papers were selected for data analyses. Findings: The results are composed of a quantitative analysis of the chronological evolution of literature, main sources and countries that study the topic. A thematic analysis was carried out to identify the barriers encountered by public HEIs in Lean implementation. Among the main barriers are the lack of involvement of leadership and public servants, as well as lack of communication between the different sectors of the HEIs. Originality/value: The results allow an analysis of the application of Lean in HEIs in addition to presenting results compiled on pertinent information for researchers on the topic. The study presents originality when observing the application of Lean in public HEIs, indicating challenges related to lack of resources and slow adoption of changes. The theoretical implications are related to the adaptations necessary for the application of Lean in this context, highlighting specific barriers for public HEIs. The research also provides practical implications, since the study indicates to public HEI managers what are the main barriers, possible ways to overcome them and how to adapt the Lean approach to the public context.