The OECD’s Education at a Glance 2025 report, released today, highlights the UK’s continued strength in higher education, emphasising its competitiveness in talent development, internationalisation, and graduate outcomes. For business schools, the findings reinforce the UK’s position as a global hub for skills, innovation, and workforce readiness.

Rosalind Gill, Director of Policy, Analysis and External Affairs at the National Centre for Universities and Business (NCUB), noted that the UK is delivering sustained progress across access, attainment, and graduate performance. Nearly 60% of young adults in the UK now hold a higher-education qualification, substantially above the OECD average.

England’s success in widening participation is particularly significant for future talent pipelines. Attainment among individuals from families without upper-secondary education has increased by 12 percentage points since 2012, reflecting the impact of long-term investment in inclusive pathways into higher education.

The report also highlights strong completion and employment outcomes. Around 80% of bachelor’s students complete their degrees within the expected timeframe, placing the UK among the global leaders. Employment prospects remain robust: in 2024, 90% of tertiary-educated adults were in work, with an unemployment rate of just 2.3%, one of the lowest across OECD economies.

The economic returns to higher education remain compelling. Young graduates earn on average 35% more than those with upper-secondary qualifications, and the earnings premium increases to 57% for master’s and doctoral graduates strengthening the business case for advanced study.

The UK’s position as the world’s second-largest destination for international students underscores its global education leadership and its critical role in attracting high-potential learners, researchers, and future business innovators. However, the report also signals risks. Proposed restrictions in the Immigration Bill particularly around Graduate Visas may weaken the UK’s ability to compete for international talent.

Investment levels present a mixed picture. At USD 35,350, total expenditure per tertiary student ranks third in the OECD. Yet government spending per student remains significantly lower than the OECD average, raising questions about long-term sustainability without renewed public investment.

Overall, the Education at a Glance 2025 findings reaffirm that the UK higher education system supported by its business schools continues to deliver world-class outcomes for students, employers, and the wider economy. Sustained investment, strong industry partnerships, and a globally competitive visa regime will be essential to maintaining this strategic advantage.

Source : NCUB