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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.

Ambiente en la Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF) el curso pasado.
Estudiantes universitarios en el campus de Tarongers de la Universitat de Valencia
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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.