Overview
- A British Social Attitudes survey found a record 34% of people in 2025 said going to university is not worthwhile and only 36% believe graduates end up better off long term.
- Research cited by multiple outlets shows about 700,000 degree-holders are now unemployed and claiming benefits, roughly 200,000 more than in 2019.
- The Student Loans Company reports average government loan balances for recent graduates are around £53,000, a rise that graduates say makes repayment unlikely and unfair under current interest rules.
- MPs on the Treasury Select Committee opened hearings on Tuesday to review Plan 2 loans and whether repayment terms are reasonable, drawing testimony from student groups and experts.
- Public pressure for policy change includes strong support for limits on foreign student recruitment and lower fee caps, and analysts warn falling confidence could weaken university finances by reducing applications and income from overseas students.