This study reviews the methods used to implement energy management systems (EnMS) in higher education institutions (HEIs) and their impact on improving energy performance considering their relationship with the requirements for an EnMS according to ISO 50001. From 2310 articles, 136 articles and 5 technical reports related to EnMS and energy efficiency were selected and analyzed. A synthesis of the major actions taken by HEIs to enhance their energy performance is presented, including energy management strategies, methods for measuring and estimating consumption, occupant behavior models that influence energy use, barriers to energy efficiency in HEIs buildings, and future challenges. It was found that studies on building energy management systems often do not incorporate an analysis of CO₂ emissions reduction. Funding for this research is driven by directives and policies related to energy performance. These results should assist HEIs seeking to implement an EnMS to improve their energy performance and reduce CO₂ emissions, thereby contributing to energy security, climate change mitigation, and fostering a new culture of energy use and consumption. It was also found that, although most studies do not explicitly mention the ISO 50001 standard, all of them comply with at least one of its requirements. Additionally, 27% of energy management strategies focus on operational aspects, while 26% involve energy audits, primarily through measurement, estimation, forecasting, energy reviews, and the establishment of an energy baseline (EnBL).