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Catalan Universities Face Growing Inequities and Rising Student Struggles

A new report highlights widening socioeconomic gaps, financial strain, and mental health challenges among students, prompting calls for urgent reform.

Overview

  • The percentage of students balancing work and studies surged from 16.9% to 26% over three years, driven by economic pressures.
  • High-income students now make up 62% of university enrollments, while middle-class representation has dropped to 29%.
  • The scholarship system is critically underperforming, covering only 16–16.7% of students and failing to adequately support those in need.
  • Average study time per credit has fallen to 22.8 hours, below European benchmarks, raising concerns about learning quality.
  • Mental health issues are on the rise, with 25.9% of students reporting experiences of anxiety, emphasizing the need for increased support.