Is College Still Worth It? Changes in Student Preferences and Applications

TLDRElite colleges like Brown and Harvard saw a decrease in applications this year, while public schools in the South saw a significant increase. Students are increasingly questioning the value of an Ivy League education due to high costs, restrictive policies, and alternative options like trade schools. The percentage of Fortune 500 CEOs with Ivy League education is lower than commonly believed. Factors such as COVID-19 restrictions and the desire for a normal college experience also play a role in students' decisions.

Key insights

💼Elite colleges experienced a decrease in applications, while public schools in the South saw a significant increase.

💸Students are increasingly questioning the value of an Ivy League education due to high costs and the perception that it may not lead to better job opportunities.

🎓The percentage of Fortune 500 CEOs with Ivy League education is lower than commonly believed.

✈️Factors such as COVID-19 restrictions and the desire for a normal college experience influence students' decisions to attend college.

👩‍💼Alternative options like trade schools are becoming more attractive to students.

Q&A

Did Ivy League schools see a decrease in applications this year?

—Yes, elite colleges like Brown and Harvard experienced a decrease in applications.

Why are students questioning the value of an Ivy League education?

—Students are questioning the high costs and the perception that an Ivy League education may not lead to better job opportunities.

Are Ivy League graduates more likely to become Fortune 500 CEOs?

—No, the percentage of Fortune 500 CEOs with Ivy League education is lower than commonly believed.

What factors influence students' decisions to attend college?

—Factors such as COVID-19 restrictions and the desire for a normal college experience influence students' decisions.

Are students considering alternative options to college?

—Yes, alternative options like trade schools are becoming more attractive to students.

Timestamped Summary

00:02Elite colleges like Brown and Harvard saw a decrease in applications this year, while public schools in the South saw a significant increase.

01:01Students are increasingly questioning the value of an Ivy League education due to high costs and the perception that it may not lead to better job opportunities.

02:01The percentage of Fortune 500 CEOs with Ivy League education is lower than commonly believed.

04:23Factors such as COVID-19 restrictions and the desire for a normal college experience influence students' decisions to attend college.

08:10Alternative options like trade schools are becoming more attractive to students.

Browse more