Shrinking graduate premium sours views on value of a university education, UK poll shows
A recent British Social Attitudes survey reveals a significant decline in public confidence regarding the value of a university education. Only 36% of respondents believe that graduates are financially better off compared to non-graduates, a drop from 50% in 2005. Concerns over rising student debt and the impact of AI on job prospects contribute to the growing skepticism about the worth of degrees.
- ▪The proportion of people who think degrees are not worth the time and money has increased from 14% in 2005 to 34% in 2025.
- ▪Tuition fees for English students have risen from £1,000 a year in 1998 to up to £9,535 a year now.
- ▪The salary threshold for student loan repayments has been frozen multiple times, exacerbating concerns about graduate debt.
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Cambridge University students on graduation day. A British Social Attitudes survey shows only 36% of people think graduates end up being financially a lot better off. Photograph: Hazy Pics/AlamyView image in fullscreenCambridge University students on graduation day. A British Social Attitudes survey shows only 36% of people think graduates end up being financially a lot better off. Photograph: Hazy Pics/AlamyUniversitiesShrinking graduate premium sours views on value of a university education, UK poll showsWorries over AI and loan debt mean 34% of people think degrees are usually not worth the time and moneySally Weale Education correspondentTue 2 Jun 2026 01.00 EDTLast modified on Tue 2 Jun 2026 01.01 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleThere was a time when going to university seemed a…
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