What's happened
Recent British Social Attitudes data show a rise in people who question the worth of university study, with 34% saying it is not worth the time and money in 2025, up from 14% in 2005. The share believing graduates will be better off has fallen to 36%. The survey highlights concerns over fees, debt, and the labour market, while still noting that degree holders are more likely to be employed and earn more on average.
What's behind the headline?
In-Depth Analysis
- The data show a clear shift in public confidence in the value of a degree, driven by rising debt and a slower return on investment in the job market. The share believing university will reliably boost lifetime earnings has declined from 50% to 36%, even as the majority of graduates still report better employment prospects historically.
- This is likely to intensify policy debates over student loan terms and the balance between funding for higher education and the aims of social mobility.
- Expect ongoing pressure on universities to adapt, with potential emphasis on vocational pathways and more transparency about graduate outcomes. The next steps will involve policymakers, higher education leaders, and student groups negotiating reforms that address both affordability and employability.
How we got here
The British Social Attitudes survey has tracked public views on higher education since 1983. Since the expansion of student numbers and the introduction of tuition fees in 1998, perceptions have fluctuated as costs and loan terms have evolved. The 2025 findings come amid ongoing debates over loan interest, repayment thresholds, and the role of AI in the job market, prompting calls for reform and greater scrutiny of the higher education system.
Our analysis
The Guardian (Sally Weale, Guardian community team), The Guardian (news article), The Independent (Christopher McKeon) provide the underlying data from the British Social Attitudes survey conducted by NatCen Social Research. Direct quotes: "There’s no getting away from the fact that it’s a challenging labour market" (Guardian) and "universities are engines of social mobility" (Weale).
Go deeper
- Is your degree still worth it given the cost and debt?
- What changes would you like to see in student loan repayment terms?
- Would you consider vocational routes or apprenticeships in light of these findings?