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Record Low Importance of College Education Revealed in New Gallup Poll
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Gallup Poll Shows Decline in Perceived Value of College
A Gallup poll released this week found that only 31 percent of U.S. adults consider a college education “very important,” a four-point drop from the previous year and the lowest level recorded since Gallup began asking the question in 1978. At the same time, 29 percent now view college as “not too important,” while 39 percent say it is “fairly important.” The shift reflects a near-even split between those who see college as essential and those who do not.
Historical Context of the Trend
In 2013, 70 percent of adults rated college as “very important.” Gallup’s data show a steady erosion over the past 13 years, with the 64-point gap between “very important” and “not too important” narrowing to just two points today. The decline spans all major demographic groups, including women, middle-aged and older adults, Democrats, Black and Hispanic respondents, and college graduates, each of which has experienced double-digit drops from earlier years.
Key Numbers from the Survey
- Very important: 31 % (record low)
- Fairly important: 39 % (up from 23 % in 2013)
- Not too important: 29 % (up from 6 % in 2013)
- Affordability perception: 12 % of adults consider a four-year college affordable (Lumina Foundation-Gallup survey)
- Parental preference: 73 % of adults still prefer their children pursue a degree after high school.
Explanations Offered by Gallup and Partners
Gallup hypothesizes that rising cost concerns are a primary driver of the shift, citing the Lumina Foundation-Gallup survey in which only a small minority view college as affordable. Despite cost worries, the same study reported that 73 % of adults without a degree and 69 % of college graduates still regard earning a degree as at least as important as it was two decades ago. Most parents also express a preference for their children to obtain a two- or four-year degree immediately after high school.
Potential Implications for Higher Education
The poll’s findings suggest a growing public skepticism toward the value of higher education, which could influence policy discussions about tuition pricing, financial aid, and alternative credential pathways. As cost concerns rise, institutions may face pressure to demonstrate clearer returns on investment and to expand affordable options for prospective students.