Reasons Not to Go to College: 52 Statistics on Barriers to Tertiary Education for 2026

by Imed Bouchrika, PhD

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Global participation in higher education continues to grow, but unevenly across regions. According to the UNESCO, global tertiary enrollment reached 264 million students worldwide by 2025. This reflects sustained expansion in access to higher education, although disparities between regions persist (UNESCO, 2025).

There are many factors contributing to declining college enrollment in the United States. One of the most significant is the rising cost of higher education, which has fueled the ongoing student debt crisis. As of 2025, total student loan debt in the U.S. has reached over $1.7 trillion, reflecting the growing financial burden on students and families (EducationData.org, 2025).

Another key factor is the changing value of a college degree in the labor market. Data from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York show that many graduates face challenges securing jobs aligned with their field of study. Recent estimates indicate that underemployment among college graduates remains around 40% or higher across several majors, suggesting that a diploma is no longer a guaranteed pathway to career success (Federal Reserve Bank of New York, 2025).

Other countries, however, have different reasons, including the extent of poverty experienced in less developed regions and the lack of access to a well-equipped college institution. Other extreme cases, such as living in conflict areas are also a barrier to obtaining a college degree. In some countries, gender also plays a role in whether you can pursue a college education. And just recently, the coronavirus pandemic added to the growing number of reasons not to go to college.

In this article, we will look into the relevant statistics behind the reasons for not going to college either by choice or by circumstances.

Which College Degrees Yield the Best Return on Investment?

In today’s dynamic labor market, prospective students increasingly evaluate the financial benefits of degree programs against their associated costs. Assessing potential lifetime earnings, job stability, and long-term career growth is essential when considering an investment in higher education. Detailed research on the highest paying majors offers insights that can help inform strategic decisions about which academic fields may deliver the most favorable economic outcomes.

Background: College Enrollment Statistics

Before we delve into the barriers that hinder students from pursuing college education, let us take a look at relevant global statistics for an overview of what higher education is like in different parts of the world:

• Europe and Central Asia came second with 62.07% tertiary education GER.
• Sub-Saharan Africa had the lowest tertiary education GER at only 8.9%.

Asia

• In China, tertiary enrollment has grown rapidly, reaching over 60 million students by 2025, making it the largest higher education system in the world (Ministry of Education of China, 2024).
• Nations such as Afghanistan continue to report fewer than 500,000 tertiary students, reflecting ongoing barriers related to infrastructure, funding, and political instability (UNESCO, 2024).
• Recent data from the UNESCO indicate that tertiary gross enrollment ratios vary widely, with East Asia and the Pacific exceeding 50% participation, while South and West Asia remain significantly lower, generally below 30%.

Europe

The following statistics reflect the enrollment and attendance of tertiary level students in European Union countries:

• The gross enrollment rate for tertiary education in the European Union was about 79.5 % in 2024, according to the latest World Bank data published in 2025. This represents the share of people enrolled in tertiary education relative to the official age group for that level.
• By 2024/2025, 35 % of EU regions had already met or surpassed the EU’s tertiary educational attainment target of at least 45 % of 25‑34‑year‑olds having completed tertiary education.
• In 2024, 44.2 % of young adults (aged 25–34) in the EU had attained tertiary education, approaching the EU’s 2030 target of 45 %.
• By 2024, the share of non‑EU citizens aged 25–34 with tertiary education in the EU increased by 12.5 percentage points, reaching 36.7 % in 2024 (a metric published in 2025).
• According to UNESCO, the total number of students enrolled in higher education worldwide reached a record 264 million in 2025 (global data), reflecting continued global expansion of tertiary education participation.
• The OECD’s Education at a Glance 2025 highlights that bachelor’s programmes remain the dominant entry point into tertiary education in developed countries, with policies focusing on access and participation — a key factor shaping EU tertiary education trends.

North and South America

• In 2024, North America had a gross enrollment ratio (GER) in tertiary education of approximately 101 %, the highest among world regions, based on UNESCO data compiled by the World Bank.
• In 2024, total enrolments in Canadian public post‑secondary institutions reached approximately 2.3 million students, up 5.8 % from the previous year. This figure includes about 1,152,105 students in universities and 611,718 in colleges, with significant growth driven by international student enrolments.
• In the United States, total college enrollment reached approximately 19.4 million students in 2025, reflecting a slight increase in participation among young adults.
• In Mexico, the number of students enrolled in higher education institutions reached approximately 5.39 million in 2024 academic year, marking one of the highest recorded totals.
• In Latin America and the Caribbean, inequality remains severe, with the poorest 10 % of the population receiving only 1.7 % of total income, highlighting persistent disparities that also affect access to higher education (Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean, 2025).

Africa

• Africa’s GER in tertiary education remains low, at approximately 9 % in 2025, far below the global average of 38 %. (UNESCO Institute for Statistics, 2025)
• Africa has over 400 million people aged 15–35, highlighting strong demand for higher education. (UNESCO, 2025)
• By 2040, the number of young Africans completing secondary or tertiary education is expected to more than double from 103 million to 240 million, reflecting projected growth in higher education participation. (OECD, 2024)
• Only about 9 % of the African population currently has access to higher education, emphasizing persistent participation gaps. (UNESCO, 2025)
• Female students now represent approximately 44 % of all tertiary students in Africa in 2025, showing progress toward gender parity. (UNESCO Institute for Statistics, 2025)

Barriers to Pursuing College Education

While some students are bent on attending college and even endure AP vs dual enrollment to get a head start, others are hindered by certain circumstances to continue their education.

Despite the increase in enrollment rate in some regions and countries, the growing population of students who are not pursuing higher education is becoming more apparent. In the U.S., one of the main reasons behind the decline in college enrollment and attendance is the high cost of college education. Even with the attraction of the most beautiful colleges in the U.S., the cost will be a barrier to students who want to enroll. In fact, the rapidly increasing costs of higher education are causing widespread anxiety about student loans among American households, including an emerging concern of a likely higher education “bubble." These circumstances can be considered as reasons why you should not go to college.

High Cost of College

• In 2025–26, the average published tuition and fees at public four‑year institutions for in‑state students is about $11,950 per year.
• Out‑of‑state students at public four‑year colleges pay higher tuition, averaging about $31,880 in 2025–26.
• Private nonprofit four‑year colleges charge an average of roughly $45,000 in tuition and fees for the 2025–26 academic year.
• Including room and board and other expenses, the average total student budget for a public four‑year in‑state college student is around $30,990 in 2025–26.
• For private nonprofit four‑year institutions in 2025–26, the average total cost of attendance (tuition, fees, room and board, etc.) is about $65,470 per year.

Poverty

Research indicates that poverty in the United States continues to disproportionately affect students from racial and ethnic minority groups, and students from high‑poverty families are significantly more likely to attend schools with concentrated disadvantage.

• In recent education data, a substantial share of U.S. students attend high‑poverty schools — for example, nearly 39 % of students of color attend schools where most students come from low‑income backgrounds — reflecting high concentrations of economic disadvantage across the nation’s classrooms.
• In 2024, the median estimated poverty rate for children ages 5 to 17 across U.S. school districts was about 12.5 %, indicating a continued high level of economic disadvantage experienced by students nationwide.

Recent evidence shows that students from high‑poverty high schools have lower postsecondary enrollment outcomes than those from more affluent schools. According to the 2025 High School Benchmarks report, only about 51.4 % of graduates from high‑poverty high schools (where at least 75 % of students are economically disadvantaged) enrolled in college immediately after graduation, compared to 74.2 % of graduates from low‑poverty schools, highlighting persistent gaps in college access related to school poverty level.

This lack of access to postsecondary pathways can contribute to increased school disengagement and decisions not to pursue further education. Moreover, disparities in college enrollment by income persist: for the class of 2024, 52.3 % of graduates from low‑income high schools enrolled in college right away, compared with 64.2 % from higher‑income high schools, illustrating ongoing socioeconomic gaps in higher education access.

• The access to advanced placement courses such as calculus and physics decreased as the level of school poverty increased.
• Four-year public college institutions expect student applicants to have completed three to four math and science credits in high school.

In other parts of the globe, poverty also plays a key role in preventing a significant portion of the population from having access to tertiary education, among other reasons like gender discrimination, political conflict, and disabilities.

• In 2025, an estimated 272 million children and youth worldwide were out of school, and wealth‑related disparities remain among the strongest barriers to education; many low‑income learners in low‑ and middle‑income countries are still far less likely to complete upper secondary education than their richer peers, underscoring persistent global inequality in education access and attainment.

Gender

Despite the global effort for education to be accessible to all, there still are countries where women are marginalized (OECD Better Life Index, n.d.):

• In 2024, global upper secondary completion rates show stark wealth and location disparities: in low‑income countries, only about 20% of youth complete upper secondary education, compared with much higher rates globally, highlighting how disadvantaged groups—especially those in rural and low‑resource settings—are far less likely to finish higher levels of schooling and therefore have limited opportunities to continue to tertiary education.

An interesting reversal of the historical pattern, however, is witnessed in the countries that belong to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). OECD is an international organization currently made up of 37 countries whose contributions to the improvement of global education include helping individuals and nations identify and develop the knowledge and skills to improve employment, personal and financial status, as well as promote social inclusion. In the majority of OECD countries, the percentage of women who complete tertiary education is higher than men (OECD, n.d.).

• 39% of women in most OECD countries between the ages of 25 and 64 are more likely to have a college degree compared to 33% of men in the same age range.

Disability

As of 2025, an estimated 1.3 billion people worldwide—about 16 % of the global population—live with a significant disability, and persons with disabilities continue to face exclusion from education and other opportunities due to barriers in accessibility, stigma, and lack of inclusive support systems.” Persons with disabilities often encounter disproportionate obstacles to enrolling in and completing education, especially where schools lack appropriate facilities, accommodations, or trained educators, which can contribute to lower rates of college attendance and completion.

In the United States, the most recent 2025 Youth Transition Report shows that disparities in postsecondary enrollment and completion persist for youth with disabilities. Nationally, only about 29.1 % of young adults with disabilities ages 18–24 were enrolled in college, compared with 42.1 % of their peers without disabilities, indicating a significant gap in access to higher education for individuals with disabilities.

Moreover, just 6.5 % of young adults with disabilities had completed college, compared with a higher rate among those without disabilities, further highlighting persistent obstacles in progressing through postsecondary education. These findings illustrate how barriers in support, accessibility, and inclusive services continue to disadvantage students with disabilities in their transition to and completion of college:

• 60% of young adults with disabilities were reported to have continued on to post-secondary education within an eight-year period after graduating from high school.
• Only 19% of young adults with disabilities were reported to have enrolled in 4-year colleges or universities.

Percentage of U.S. students with disabilities who pursued post-secondary education

Source: Source: NLTS2

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Meanwhile, in some countries, the practice of segregation continues to exist.

• As of 2024–2025, an estimated 273 million children, adolescents, and youth worldwide were out of school, and the out‑of‑school rate remains disproportionately high among older adolescents and vulnerable groups, reflecting ongoing global inequities in education access.

Military Service and Conflict Areas

In some countries, enlistment in the armed forces also affects a student’s decision to pursue college or not.

• The vast majority of active‑duty military personnel held at least a high school diploma or GED (96 %), and nearly a quarter (about 23.7 %) held a bachelor’s degree or higher, indicating that higher education remains less common than high school completion among U.S. service members.
• As of late 2024, about 15.3 % of active‑duty U.S. armed forces personnel held a bachelor’s degree, compared with considerably higher rates of college degree attainment in the civilian U.S. adult population (e.g., more than 40 % of U.S. adults aged 25–39 held a bachelor’s degree or higher)

In conflict areas across the globe, the opportunity for children to obtain college education has been cut short at the primary and secondary levels.

• According to UNICEF, 17 million school-age children and youth are refugees in countries hit by conflicts.
• In Yemen, more than 1,200 academic institutions have been damaged by the conflict and occupied by armed groups.
• In Uganda, 82% of the 1.5 million refugees are women and children whose access to education has been cut because of the war.
• Syria’s “lost generation" is made up of 335,000 children who have missed out on education for years after they became refugees in Jordan.
• In Nigeria, Boko Haram violence has displaced 1.8 million people, including school-age children.

How can an online college free application eliminate entry barriers?

A streamlined, fee-free online application process can reduce initial financial and administrative burdens that often deter prospective students from applying. By leveraging solutions such as the online college free application, institutions can simplify the enrollment process and attract a broader, more diverse applicant pool. This approach minimizes logistical challenges and promotes greater accessibility, effectively complementing alternative pathways in higher education while fostering competitive diversity in enrollment.

Is an Accelerated Master’s Degree a Strategic Career Investment?

Accelerated master’s programs can offer professionals a focused pathway to advanced competencies without the extended time commitment of traditional graduate studies. These programs address evolving employer demands by delivering industry-relevant curricula in condensed formats, enabling quick career transitions and targeted skill development. Evaluating factors such as accreditation, curriculum design, and partnership opportunities is crucial for determining a program’s ability to enhance career prospects and deliver a strong return on investment. For further insights, prospective students may consider exploring online 1 year masters programs.

• 86% of presidents claim that their biggest concern is the number of fall and summer enrollment.
• 65% of presidents state that they are worried about long-term financial viability.
• 54% of presidents at public four-year institutions are most concerned about providing emergency aid to students.
• Meanwhile, 45% of presidents at private four-year institutions choose “laying off faculty and/or staff" as the third pressing issue they have.
• 49% of presidents are considering merging or eliminating academic programs as part of the actions they might deem necessary to take.

• 50.9% of respondents reveal that they are facing tuition financing problems.
• As of 2025, individuals with a master’s degree earn a median of about 16–20% more per week than those with only a bachelor’s degree, highlighting the continued economic value of graduate education.
• 7.3% of the students are “changing gears" and do something else.
• 1.5% of students who can no longer afford their tuition are leaving college to seek full-time employment.

What are viable alternatives to traditional college education?

Alternative education pathways offer focused, career-oriented training that addresses today’s evolving labor market. Many students explore vocational programs, professional certifications, and portfolio-based learning to obtain industry-specific skills without committing to a traditional four-year degree. Enrollment in programs such as the easiest associates degree provides a streamlined route into the workforce by delivering specialized training in a condensed timeframe. These options also leverage online platforms and micro-credentialing to tailor education to immediate job market needs while reducing time and financial commitments.

Are accelerated online doctoral programs a competitive alternative?

Accelerated online doctoral programs offer an efficient pathway for professionals seeking advanced expertise without the prolonged commitment of traditional doctoral studies. These programs emphasize practical, industry-relevant skills through rigorous yet condensed curricula. Analysis of program outcomes and strategic academic partnerships demonstrates that students can attain a competitive advantage by leveraging innovative formats such as short doctoral programs, which streamline the trajectory toward a doctoral credential while addressing evolving workforce demands.

Are alternative bachelor's programs competitive in today’s job market?

Alternative bachelor's programs present a cost-effective pathway designed to address skill-specific demands in today’s competitive labor market. Studies indicate that graduates from such streamlined programs can access comparable career opportunities while mitigating long-term financial burdens. Evaluating these programs involves examining accreditation standards, industry partnerships, and career support services to ensure sustainable workforce readiness. Prospective students are encouraged to review detailed program outcomes and institutional benchmarks, including insights on easy bachelor degrees, to make data-driven decisions aligned with their professional goals.

Are dual degree programs a suitable route to balance cost and career advancement?

Dual degree programs integrate two distinct academic disciplines, enabling students to acquire diverse skill sets while effectively managing higher education expenses. This integrated approach can respond to the modern employer’s demand for multifaceted expertise without the extended duration and cost commonly associated with traditional pathways. Institutions that offer these programs often provide targeted curricula aligned with industry needs, facilitating a smoother transition into the competitive workforce. For an in-depth analysis on these options, refer to the best undergraduate dual degree programs.

How are changing employer requirements impacting college enrollment trends?

As job markets evolve, employer requirements increasingly affect students' decisions to pursue college, impacting overall enrollment trends. Many companies are moving away from requiring four-year degrees for roles that traditionally mandated higher education. This shift, motivated by skill shortages and the high cost of education, influences whether students view college as essential for career success.

• Increase in Skills-Based Hiring: Companies are focusing more on skills and certifications rather than degrees. For example, the tech industry often accepts candidates with coding bootcamp or certificate program backgrounds, reducing reliance on traditional degrees.
• Internships and Apprenticeships: There is a growing emphasis on internships and apprenticeships, offering direct pathways to employment without needing a degree. Industries like manufacturing, technology, and trade sectors prioritize practical experience and hands-on training.
• Emphasis on Alternative Credentials: Many employers now recognize alternative credentials, such as professional certifications, online courses, and micro-credentials from platforms like LinkedIn Learning and Coursera. This shift encourages students to consider faster, more affordable training options.
• Impact on High School Graduates: Students increasingly assess the ROI of college versus direct workforce entry. High school graduates may opt for immediate work or alternative training due to the financial burden and uncertain job prospects tied to a degree.

The Future of College Education

A large share of the global student population continues to face disruptions in their education due to structural and economic challenges. Millions of college students encounter barriers such as limited access to resources, inadequate institutional support, and financial constraints that hinder their ability to continue their studies. While some colleges and universities can offer flexible learning options such as online education, this is still not feasible for many institutions, particularly in countries with limited economic capacity and digital infrastructure. At the same time, unstable employment conditions and rising costs of education create additional pressure for students to prioritize immediate income over long-term academic goals. Moreover, the availability of jobs that do not require a college degree can make it seem more practical for some individuals to forgo completing higher education altogether.

Nevertheless, just recently, the UNESCO International Institute for Educational Planning launched an international research project, which aims to help countries identify possible policies and instruments supporting flexible learning pathways or FLPs. But with the pandemic still ongoing, the implementation of possible proposed actions will have to wait. Meanwhile, it is a good idea to stay motivated with these employee engagement quotes that are suitable for students, too, as opportunities to study may present themselves.

Key Insights

• Worldwide tertiary enrollment reached 264 million students by 2025, yet access varies significantly by region, with high participation in Europe and North America and very low rates in Sub-Saharan Africa.
• With student loan debt exceeding $1.7 trillion and high tuition costs, financial pressure continues to discourage college enrollment and completion.
• Around 40% of graduates are underemployed, indicating a mismatch between degrees and labor market needs, which affects the perceived value of higher education.
• Students from low-income backgrounds and high-poverty schools are significantly less likely to enroll in college, highlighting persistent gaps tied to income and resources.
• Factors such as poverty, conflict, gender inequality, and disability continue to restrict higher education access, particularly in developing regions with limited infrastructure and opportunities.

References

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• World Bank. (2025). Tertiary education, gross enrollment ratio (% of tertiary-age population) – North America. World Bank Data. https://data.worldbank.org/indicator/SE.TER.ENRR?locations=NA
• Eurostat. (2025). Tertiary education statistics: Tertiary educational attainment and student mobility. European Commission. https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/product?code=ddn-20251006-2
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