Global Student Survey - A survey of the lives, hopes and fears of undergraduate students across 21 countries in the age of COVID and beyond.
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| Global Student Survey 1
Global
Student
Survey STRICTLY EMBARGOED UNTIL 00.01 GMT
THURSDAY 25 FEBRUARY 2021
A survey of the lives, hopes and fears
of undergraduate students across 21
countries in the age of COVID
and beyond.
| Global Student Survey 2 About Chegg.org Chegg.org is the impact, advocacy, and research arm of Chegg: addressing the issues facing the modern student. For more information, visit www.chegg.org Chegg: A Smarter Way to Student® We strive to improve educational outcomes by putting the student first. We support students on their journey from high school to college and into their careers with tools designed to help them learn their course materials, succeed in their classes, and save money on required materials. Our services are available online, anytime and anywhere. Chegg is a publicly held company based in Santa Clara, California, and trades on the NYSE under the symbol CHGG. For more information, visit www.chegg.com
| Global Student Survey 3
Contents
04 Foreword
05 Methodology
06 Global findings
• Online education
• The cost of living and learning
• Learning to earning
• Mental health and wellbeing
• Social attitudes
48 Key country findings
People photo created by katemangostar - www.freepik.com| Global Student Survey Foreword | 4
Foreword
At the outset of 2021, the world’s empowering them in their lives, their career plans, and in
their responses to the complex challenges of today’s world.
pandemic. Over half (56%) of students say their mental
health has suffered during COVID-19, most of whom
create new solutions and potentially influence millions
of people with their new ideas. Changing the world no
students are under greater There is also little data on whether the pandemic has reported heightened stress and anxiety. Alarmingly, 22% longer requires a position of power in a large institution
changed students’ attitudes to their studies, or their future of students surveyed around the world struggled to afford – it can be as simple as devising a new app, or building a
pressure than at any time in direction. food over the last year. During the pandemic, students following for a neglected cause on social media. Today’s
across the globe have shown great strength, focus and students also have an instinctive grasp of how to use the
living memory. Despite the fact That is why we launched the Chegg.org Global Student determination to keep learning and keep fighting for their tools available to them to make a difference in others’ lives:
that technology now puts a Survey – a new 21-country study of the views, hopes and
fears of students around the world that attempts to bridge
future. They deserve huge praise and recognition for never
giving up.
without received assumptions that things must be “done in
a certain way”, they are free to break new ground and let
boundless world of information this gap. It provides authoritative national and global data their minds stray beyond the beaten path.
that will help answer many of these questions, and its Paying for college is also more than a number to students.
instantly at their disposal, today’s findings will help for education professionals, policymakers The financial stress is now affecting them outside of the In order for undergraduates to thrive in this new landscape,
undergraduates face unique and leaders alike. classroom. Over a third (35%) of students surveyed who
have a student loan say they lose sleep over it, while 21%
however, we need to listen to them. Only then will we be
able to provide an education that is relevant to their needs
challenges that leave their path Our survey reveals that students want more options, say it makes them so anxious they have sought medical and acts as a springboard for their success. After all, it is
including those that would lower tuition and provide more help. This concern is further reflected in students’ wider their dreams, their insights and their creativity that will help
to success less certain than for targeted learning. Around two-thirds of students (65%) priorities. According to our respondents, the two biggest to rebuild the future.
across the countries surveyed say they would like their issues facing their generation are not, as one might have
previous generations. university to offer the choice of more online learning if expected, climate change or conflict – but access to good Lila Thomas,
it means paying lower tuition fees. Meanwhile, over half quality jobs and “the rich getting richer and the poor Chegg’s Director of Social Impact and Head of Chegg.org
The reasons are complex. The COVID-19 pandemic, and of students (54%) say they would prefer their university getting poorer”, both of which were chosen by around a
the vast shifts our education system has undergone to course to be shorter, if it was also cheaper. Higher quarter of respondents globally.
adapt to it, have had a destabilizing effect on learning. education needs to be democratized, made more flexible
Many students have struggled to adjust from a system of and, crucially, more affordable. Clearly something has to Despite all the obstacles they experience in their
mainly face-to-face learning to one that is almost entirely change. education, today’s students remain resilient, embracing
online. This is a challenge that no other generation of their opportunities and looking to the future with hope.
students has faced. But, even before the pandemic, life for Students agree that they are primarily going to college They know that in the years ahead they will be charged
students was tough - with student debt soaring beyond for the career benefit that it brings. More than half (54%) with solving some of the greatest challenges in history -
any realistic level, and an uncertain economy resulting of undergraduates polled say their main motivation for reckoning with increasing automation, widening global
in an ultra-competitive jobs market. Students also faced studying is to broaden their job prospects, increase their inequality, and climate change. Yet over half (56%) of
an increasing disconnect between college curricula and earning potential, or to fulfill the requirements for a all students we surveyed still felt optimistic. And in
the real-world requirements of the modern workplace. In specific career. Educators therefore need to give attention every single country, more students felt optimistic than
other words, the education sector as a whole has not been to how well their teaching prepares graduates for the pessimistic. They are ready and prepared for the challenge.
listening to what students and graduates need from higher modern professional landscape. Yes, they need technical
education. This has to change. expertise, but also lifelong learning, leadership and soft Finally, we should remember that although the pressures
skills like teamwork and collaboration. facing today’s students are intense, the opportunities they
But how? Regrettably, there is a lack of comprehensive have to change things for the better are also greater than
quality global-level research on how undergraduates The global data also highlights the intense pressure placed any previous generation’s. Technology and social media
experience their education – and how they see it upon students around the world, compounded by the have given them a voice, making it possible for them to| Global Student Survey Methodology | 5
Methodology
About the research
Chegg.org commissioned polling The countries included in
company Yonder (formerly Populus) to the research are:
conduct the survey. Yonder interviewed
16,839 undergraduate students aged Argentina Kenya
18-21 in 21 countries between 20th of Australia Malaysia
October and 10th of November 2020. Brazil Mexico
Canada Russia
Sample sizes ranged from 500 to 1,007 China Saudi Arabia
in each country. Global results represent France South Korea
the combined findings of the 21 countries Germany Spain
studied. In the ‘Global findings’ section of India Turkey
this report, the text on the left hand side Indonesia UK
of the pages refers to the global averages Italy US
across all 21 countries, while the graphs Japan
on the right hand side of the pages break
these results down by country. Yonder is
a member of the British Polling Council
and abides by its rules. For more details
go to www. yonderconsulting.com| Global Student Survey Global findings | 6 Global findings
| Global Student Survey Online education | 7
Online
education
Photo by Dylan Ferreira on Unsplash| Global Student Survey Global findings Online education | 8
Online education
To what extent do you agree
or disagree with the following
statement: I would rather my
university offered the choice of more
online learning if it meant paying
lower tuition fees
Around two-thirds (65%) of students across all
the surveyed countries say they would rather their
university offered the choice of more online learning if
it meant paying lower tuition fees.
In all of the 21 countries surveyed, more students would
rather their university offered the choice of more online
learning if it meant lower fees than students who do
not want the choice.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statement: I would rather my university offered
the choice of more online learning if it meant paying lower tuition fees. Base: all respondents from: Argentina
(500), Australia (1005), Brazil (1000), Canada (1007), China (1000), France (1000), Germany (511), India (1000),
Indonesia (700), Italy (700), Japan (1002), Kenya (500), Malaysia (500), Mexico (1004), Russia (901), Saudi Arabia
Net: Strongly/slightly disagree Don’t pay fees Neutral Net: Strongly/slightly agree
(503), South Korea (500), Spain (500), Turkey (1004), UK (1002), US (1000).| Global Student Survey Global findings Online education | 9
Online education
To what extent do you agree
or disagree with the following
statement: After the COVID-19
pandemic, I would like my college/
university course to incorporate
more online learning
After the COVID-19 pandemic, 48% of students
surveyed would like their university course to
incorporate more online learning, versus only 34% who
would not.
In 14 out of the 21 countries surveyed, there are
more students who want their university course to
incorporate more online learning post-pandemic than
those who do not.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statement: After the COVID-19 pandemic, I would
like my college/ university course to incorporate more online learning. Base: all respondents from: Argentina
(500), Australia (1005), Brazil (1000), Canada (1007), China (1000), France (1000), Germany (511), India (1000),
Indonesia (700), Italy (700), Japan (1002), Kenya (500), Malaysia (500), Mexico (1004), Russia (901), Saudi
Arabia (503), South Korea (500), Spain (500), Turkey (1004), UK (1002), US (1000). NOTE: the term ‘college’
was displayed to respondents in the US, ‘university’ was displayed to respondents in Canada, India, Indonesia,
Net: Strongly/slightly disagree Neither agree nor disagree Net: Strongly/slightly agree
Kenya and the UK.| Global Student Survey Global findings Online education | 10
Online education
Please answer yes or no to the
following questions: Have you
or your parents paid for online
educational platforms/ tools/ apps
to aid your college/ university tuition
that were not provided by your
college/ university?
Nearly four in 10 (39%) students polled say they or their
parents have paid for online educational platforms/
tools/ apps to aid their university tuition that were not
provided by their college university.
Please answer yes or no to the following questions: Have you or your parents paid for online educational
platforms/ tools/ apps to aid your college/ university tuition that were not provided by your college/ university?
Base: all respondents from: Argentina (500), Australia (1005), Brazil (1000), Canada (1007), China (1000),
France (1000), Germany (511), India (1000), Indonesia (700), Italy (700), Japan (1002), Kenya (500), Malaysia
(500), Mexico (1004), Russia (901), Saudi Arabia (503), South Korea (500), Spain (500), Turkey (1004), UK (1002),
US (1000). NOTE: the term ‘college’ was displayed to respondents in the US, ‘university’ was displayed to
Yes No Don’t know
respondents in Canada, India, Indonesia, Kenya and the UK.| Global Student Survey Global findings Online education | 11 Online education Please answer yes or no to the following questions: Do you think that your teachers/ professors know how to teach effectively online? Around half (51%) of students polled across all 21 countries during the COVID pandemic say their teachers/ professors know how to teach effectively online, while 37% say they do not. Please answer yes or no to the following questions: Do you think that your teachers/ professors know how to teach effectively online? Base: all respondents from: Argentina (500), Australia (1005), Brazil (1000), Canada (1007), China (1000), France (1000), Germany (511), India (1000), Indonesia (700), Italy (700), Japan (1002), Kenya (500), Malaysia (500), Mexico (1004), Russia (901), Saudi Arabia (503), South Korea (500), Spain (500), Yes No Don’t know Turkey (1004), UK (1002), US (1000).
| Global Student Survey Global findings Online education | 12 Online education How would you rate the quality of your college’s/ university’s online learning provision during lockdown? Over eight in 10 (82%) of students surveyed say their university stopped in-person teaching during the COVID-19 pandemic. Of those whose university stopped in-person teaching during the COVID-19 pandemic, 86% of students say their university provided online learning resources during this time. 50% of these students rate their university’s online learning provision as excellent or good, while 35% say they learned as much if not more from online learning during lockdown as they would have in face-to-face classes. How would you rate the quality of your college’s/ university’s online learning provision during lockdown? Base: college/ university stopped in person teaching during COVID-19 pandemic and college/ university provided any kind of online learning resources: Argentina (235), Australia (812), Brazil (788), Canada (718), China (759), France (665), Germany (371), India (634), Indonesia (612), Italy (515), Japan (777), Kenya (333), Malaysia (433), Mexico (480), Russia (562), Saudi Arabia (273), South Korea (424), Spain (326), Turkey (766), UK (682), US (645). NOTE: the term ‘college’ was displayed to respondents in the US, ‘university’ was displayed to respondents in Canada, Net: Excellent/ good Average Net: Very poor/ poor India, Indonesia, Kenya and the UK.
| Global Student Survey Global findings Online education | 13 Online education On average, how many hours per week would you say you devoted to your studies during the COVID-19 lockdown? On average how many hours per week would you say you devoted to your studies during the COVID-19 lockdown? Base: college/ university stopped in person teaching during COVID-19 pandemic: Argentina (293), Australia (916), Brazil (929), Canada (848), China (789), France (770), Germany (430), India (755), Indonesia (640), Italy (645), Japan (952), Kenya (447), Malaysia (448), Mexico (614), Russia (678), Saudi Arabia (306), South Korea (446), Spain (397), Turkey (883), UK (794), US (783). NOTE: the term ‘college’ was displayed to respondents in the Hours US, ‘university’ was displayed to respondents in Canada, India, Indonesia, Kenya and the UK.
| Global Student Survey Global findings Online education | 14
Online education
Would you say you devoted more or
fewer hours to your studies during
the COVID-19 lockdown as you did
before?
Would you say you devoted more or fewer hours to your studies during the COVID-19 lockdown as you did
before? Base: college/ university stopped in person teaching during COVID-19 pandemic: Argentina (293),
Australia (916), Brazil (929), Canada (848), China (789), France (770), Germany (430), India (755), Indonesia (640),
Italy (645), Japan (952), Kenya (447), Malaysia (448), Mexico (614), Russia (678), Saudi Arabia (306), South Korea
Fewer hours Wasn’t studying degree before Same number More hours
(446), Spain (397), Turkey (883), UK (794), US (783).| Global Student Survey The cost of living and learning | 15 The cost of living and learning
| Global Student Survey Global findings The cost of living and learning | 16 The cost of living and learning If it was cheaper, would you prefer your university degree take a shorter amount of time to complete? Over half (54%) of the undergraduate students across all the surveyed countries say if it was cheaper, they would prefer their university degree take a shorter amount of time to complete. Please answer yes or no to the following questions: If it was cheaper, would you prefer your university degree take a shorter amount of time to complete? Base: all respondents from: Argentina (500), Australia (1005), Brazil (1000), Canada (1007), China (1000), France (1000), Germany (511), India (1000), Indonesia (700), Italy (700), Japan (1002), Kenya (500), Malaysia (500), Mexico (1004), Russia (901), Saudi Arabia (503), South Korea (500), Yes No Don’t know Spain (500), Turkey (1004), UK (1002), US (1000).
| Global Student Survey Global findings The cost of living and learning | 17 The cost of living and learning Do you have a debt or loan related to your college/ university studies? Over three in 10 (31%) students across the surveyed countries have a debt or loan related to their university studies. The proportion of students with debt tended to be considerably lower in continental European (11%) and Latin American countries (12%) surveyed compared with the Anglo-Saxon countries (61%). Do you have a debt or loan related to your college/ university studies? E.g. for tuition fees and/ or living costs. Base: all respondents from: Argentina (500), Australia (1005), Brazil (1000), Canada (1007), China (1000), France (1000), Germany (511), India (1000), Indonesia (700), Italy (700), Japan (1002), Kenya (500), Malaysia (500), Mexico (1004), Russia (901), Saudi Arabia (503), South Korea (500), Spain (500), Turkey (1004), UK (1002), US (1000). NOTE: the term ‘college’ was displayed to respondents in the US, ‘university’ was displayed to Yes No Prefer not to say respondents in Canada, India, Indonesia, Kenya and the UK.
| Global Student Survey Global findings The cost of living and learning | 18
**
The cost of living and learning
To what extent do you agree
or disagree with the following
statement about your college/
university debt?: I lose sleep over it/ **
it keeps me up at night
**
35% of students surveyed who have a debt or loan
related to their studies lose sleep over it.
*
*
*
Q13. To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statements about your college/ university
debt?: I lose sleep over it/ it keeps me up at night. Base: have a debt or loan related to their college/ university
studies: Argentina (35**), Australia (672), Brazil (134), Canada (453), China (194), France (132), Germany (94*),
India (267), Indonesia (132), Italy (43**), Japan (314), Kenya (274), Malaysia (260), Mexico (137), Russia (56*),
Saudi Arabia (201), South Korea (87*), Spain (42**), Turkey (391), UK (838), US (483). NOTE: the term ‘college’
was displayed to respondents in the US, ‘university’ was displayed to respondents in Canada, India, Indonesia,
Kenya and the UK. *CAUTION: Low base size, use with caution. **CAUTION: Very low base size, use with
Net: Strongly/slightly disagree Prefer not to say Neutral Net: Strongly/slightly agree
extreme caution.| Global Student Survey Global findings The cost of living and learning | 19
The cost of living and learning
To what extent do you agree
or disagree with the following
**
statement about your college/ **
university debt?: It has made me so
anxious I have sought medical help
over it
**
21% of students surveyed who have a debt or loan
related to their studies say it makes them so anxious
they have sought medical help.
*
*
*
Q13. To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statements about your college/ university
debt?: It has made me so anxious I have sought medical help over it. Base: have a debt or loan related to their
college/ university studies: Argentina (35**), Australia (672), Brazil (134), Canada (453), China (194), France (132),
Germany (94*), India (267), Indonesia (132), Italy (43**), Japan (314), Kenya (274), Malaysia (260), Mexico (137),
Russia (56*), Saudi Arabia (201), South Korea (87*), Spain (42**), Turkey (391), UK (838), US (483). NOTE: the term
‘college’ was displayed to respondents in the US, ‘university’ was displayed to respondents in Canada, India,
Indonesia, Kenya and the UK. *CAUTION: Low base size, use with caution. **CAUTION: Very low base size, use
Net: Strongly/slightly disagree Prefer not to say Neutral Net: Strongly/slightly agree
with extreme caution.| Global Student Survey Global findings The cost of living and learning | 20
The cost of living and learning
To what extent do you agree
or disagree with the following **
statement about your college/ *
university debt?: It makes me wish
I’d made a different choice
38% of students polled who have a debt or loan related
to their studies say it makes them wish they’d made a
different choice.
**
**
*
*
Q13. To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statements about your college/ university
debt?: It makes me wish I’d made a different choice. Base: have a debt or loan related to their college/
university studies: Argentina (35**), Australia (672), Brazil (134), Canada (453), China (194), France (132), Germany
(94*), India (267), Indonesia (132), Italy (43**), Japan (314), Kenya (274), Malaysia (260), Mexico (137), Russia (56*),
Saudi Arabia (201), South Korea (87*), Spain (42**), Turkey (391), UK (838), US (483). NOTE: the term ‘college’
was displayed to respondents in the US, ‘university’ was displayed to respondents in Canada, India, Indonesia,
Net: Strongly/slightly disagree Prefer not to say Neutral Net: Strongly/slightly agree
Kenya and the UK. *CAUTION: Low base size, use with caution. **CAUTION: Very low base size, use with
extreme caution.| Global Student Survey Global findings The cost of living and learning | 21
The cost of living and learning
To what extent do you agree
or disagree with the following
statement about your college/
university debt?: I don’t think I’ll ever
pay it off *
Over three in 10 (31%) students polled who have a debt **
or loan related to their studies think they will never pay
their debt off.
**
**
*
*
Q13. To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statements about your college/ university
debt?: I don’t think I’ll ever pay it off. Base: have a debt or loan related to their college/ university studies:
Argentina (35**), Australia (672), Brazil (134), Canada (453), China (194), France (132), Germany (94*), India (267),
Indonesia (132), Italy (43**), Japan (314), Kenya (274), Malaysia (260), Mexico (137), Russia (56*), Saudi Arabia
(201), South Korea (87*), Spain (42**), Turkey (391), UK (838), US (483). NOTE: the term ‘college’ was displayed to
Net: Strongly/slightly disagree Prefer not to say Neutral Net: Strongly/slightly agree
respondents in the US, ‘university’ was displayed to respondents in Canada, India, Indonesia, Kenya and the UK.
*CAUTION: Low base size, use with caution. **CAUTION: Very low base size, use with extreme caution.| Global Student Survey Global findings The cost of living and learning | 22
The cost of living and learning
To what extent do you agree
or disagree with the following
statement?: My university education
is good value for money
To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statements?: My university education is good value
for money. Base: all respondents from: Argentina (500), Australia (1005), Brazil (1000), Canada (1007), China
(1000), France (1000), Germany (511), India (1000), Indonesia (700), Italy (700), Japan (1002), Kenya (500),
Malaysia (500), Mexico (1004), Russia (901), Saudi Arabia (503), South Korea (500), Spain (500), Turkey (1004),
Net: Strongly/slightly disagree Neutral Net: Strongly/slightly agree
UK (1002), US (1000).| Global Student Survey Global findings The cost of living and learning | 23
The cost of living and learning
Which, if any, of the following things
have you struggled to afford in the
last 12 months?
Over half (53%) of students polled have struggled with
their living costs in the last year. 23% have struggled
with their rent / mortgage, 23% with utility bills, 22%
with food, and 16% with medical treatment / services.
Which, if any, of the following things have you struggled to afford in the last 12 months? Base: all respondents
from: Argentina (500), Australia (1005), Brazil (1000), Canada (1007), China (1000), France (1000), Germany
(511), India (1000), Indonesia (700), Italy (700), Japan (1002), Kenya (500), Malaysia (500), Mexico (1004), Russia
Rent/ mortgage Utility bills Food Medical treatment/ services None of these Prefer not to say
(901), Saudi Arabia (503), South Korea (500), Spain (500), Turkey (1004), UK (1002), US (1000).| Global Student Survey Global findings The cost of living and learning | 24
The cost of living and learning
To what extent do you agree
or disagree with the following
statement?: I feel hopeful about my
finances in the future
Over six in 10 (63%) students surveyed say they feel
hopeful about their finances in the future. Students in
emerging economies were more likely to feel hopeful
about their finances in the future than students in
developed economies, with China (84%), Kenya (84%)
and India (80%) polling highest and Japan (31%), Italy
(45%), South Korea (46%) and Spain (50%) polling
lowest.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statements? I feel hopeful about my finances in the
future. Base: all respondents from: Argentina (500), Australia (1005), Brazil (1000), Canada (1007), China (1000),
France (1000), Germany (511), India (1000), Indonesia (700), Italy (700), Japan (1002), Kenya (500), Malaysia
(500), Mexico (1004), Russia (901), Saudi Arabia (503), South Korea (500), Spain (500), Turkey (1004), UK (1002),
Net: Strongly/slightly disagree Neutral Net: Strongly/slightly agree
US (1000).| Global Student Survey Global findings The cost of living and learning | 25
The cost of living and learning
To what extent do you agree
or disagree with the following
statement?: I believe I will own my
own home before I am 35
Two-thirds (66%) of students polled believe they will
own their own home by the age of 35. Students in
emerging economies are more confident they will own
their own home before the age of 35 than students in
developed economies, with Kenya (92%), Indonesia
(86%), India (84%) and Brazil (78%) polling highest and
Japan (31%) and South Korea (39%) polling lowest.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statements?: I believe I will own my own home
before I am 35. Base: all respondents from: Argentina (500), Australia (1005), Brazil (1000), Canada (1007),
China (1000), France (1000), Germany (511), India (1000), Indonesia (700), Italy (700), Japan (1002), Kenya (500),
Malaysia (500), Mexico (1004), Russia (901), Saudi Arabia (503), South Korea (500), Spain (500), Turkey (1004),
Net: Strongly/slightly disagree Neutral Net: Strongly/slightly agree
UK (1002), US (1000).| Global Student Survey Learning to earning | 26
Learning to
earning
Medical photo created by prostooleh - www.freepik.com| Global Student Survey Global findings Learning to earning | 27
Learning to earning
Which one of the following best
describes your main motivation for
going to college/ university? Part 1
Jobs are the main motivation for students going
to university. Across all 21 countries polled, 21% of
undergraduate students say their main motivation was
that the specific career they want requires a degree,
while 19% say it was to broaden their job prospects.
Another 19% say it was because they are passionate
about their subject. Meanwhile, 14% say to increase
their earning potential, 7% say they felt they were
expected to go, 5% say to experience the social life of
a student, 5% to network or meet contacts that might
help them in the future, and 4% say there were few job
opportunities available, so they chose to continue their
studies.
Q8. Which one of the following best describes your main motivation for going to [college/ university]? We
understand there may be many reasons you chose to go to [college/ university] but would like you to pick
the main motivation below. Base: all respondents from: Argentina (500), Australia (1005), Brazil (1000), I felt I was expected to go To experience the social life of a student To network/ meet contacts that might help me in future
Canada (1007), China (1000), France (1000), Germany (511), India (1000), Indonesia (700), Italy (700), Japan
There were few job opportunities available, so I chose to continue my studies I didn’t want to enter the working world yet
(1002), Kenya (500), Malaysia (500), Mexico (1004), Russia (901), Saudi Arabia (503), South Korea (500), Spain
(500), Turkey (1004), UK (1002), US (1000). NOTE: the term ‘college’ was displayed to respondents in the US, I wanted to meet new people Other To broaden my job prospects The specific career I want requires a degree
‘university’ was displayed to respondents in Canada, India, Indonesia, Kenya and the UK. I am passionate about my subject To increase my earning potential| Global Student Survey Global findings Learning to earning | 28
Learning to earning
Which one of the following best
describes your main motivation for
going to college/ university? Part 2
(continued)
Which one of the following best describes your main motivation for going to [college/ university]? We
understand there may be many reasons you chose to go to [college/ university] but would like you to pick
the main motivation below. Base: all respondents from: Argentina (500), Australia (1005), Brazil (1000), I felt I was expected to go To experience the social life of a student To network/ meet contacts that might help me in future
Canada (1007), China (1000), France (1000), Germany (511), India (1000), Indonesia (700), Italy (700), Japan
There were few job opportunities available, so I chose to continue my studies I didn’t want to enter the working world yet
(1002), Kenya (500), Malaysia (500), Mexico (1004), Russia (901), Saudi Arabia (503), South Korea (500), Spain
(500), Turkey (1004), UK (1002), US (1000). NOTE: the term ‘college’ was displayed to respondents in the US, I wanted to meet new people Other To broaden my job prospects The specific career I want requires a degree
‘university’ was displayed to respondents in Canada, India, Indonesia, Kenya and the UK. I am passionate about my subject To increase my earning potential| Global Student Survey Global findings Learning to earning | 29
Learning to earning
Which one of the following best
describes your main motivation for
going to college/ university? Part 3
(continued)
Which one of the following best describes your main motivation for going to [college/ university]? We
understand there may be many reasons you chose to go to [college/ university] but would like you to pick
the main motivation below. Base: all respondents from: Argentina (500), Australia (1005), Brazil (1000), I felt I was expected to go To experience the social life of a student To network/ meet contacts that might help me in future
Canada (1007), China (1000), France (1000), Germany (511), India (1000), Indonesia (700), Italy (700), Japan
There were few job opportunities available, so I chose to continue my studies I didn’t want to enter the working world yet
(1002), Kenya (500), Malaysia (500), Mexico (1004), Russia (901), Saudi Arabia (503), South Korea (500), Spain
(500), Turkey (1004), UK (1002), US (1000). NOTE: the term ‘college’ was displayed to respondents in the US, I wanted to meet new people Other To broaden my job prospects The specific career I want requires a degree
‘university’ was displayed to respondents in Canada, India, Indonesia, Kenya and the UK. I am passionate about my subject To increase my earning potential| Global Student Survey Global findings Learning to earning | 30
Learning to earning
To what extent do you agree
or disagree with the following
statements?: My education is
preparing me well for the job market
Over three-quarters (76%) of students in emerging
economies say their education is preparing them well
for the job market, compared with 63% in developed
economies.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statements?: My education is preparing me well
for the job market. Base: all respondents from: Argentina (500), Australia (1005), Brazil (1000), Canada (1007),
China (1000), France (1000), Germany (511), India (1000), Indonesia (700), Italy (700), Japan (1002), Kenya (500),
Malaysia (500), Mexico (1004), Russia (901), Saudi Arabia (503), South Korea (500), Spain (500), Turkey (1004),
Net: Strongly/slightly disagree Neutral Net: Strongly/slightly agree
UK (1002), US (1000).| Global Student Survey Mental health and wellbeing | 31 Mental health and wellbeing
| Global Student Survey Global findings Mental health and wellbeing | 32
Mental health and wellbeing
To what extent do you agree
or disagree with the following
statement: My mental health has
suffered during the period of
COVID-19
Over half (56%) of students say their mental health has
suffered during the period of COVID-19.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statement: My mental health has suffered during
the period of COVID-19. Base: all respondents answering this section: Argentina (452), Australia (867), Brazil
(884), Canada (782), China (437), France (830), Germany (450), India (868), Indonesia (573), Italy (651), Japan
(888), Kenya (441), Malaysia (465), Mexico (873), Russia (784), Saudi Arabia (230), South Korea (440), Spain (457),
Net: Strongly/slightly disagree Prefer not to say Neutral Net: Strongly/slightly agree
Turkey (673), UK (828), US (889).| Global Student Survey Global findings Mental health and wellbeing | 33
Mental health and wellbeing
In what way(s) do you feel your
mental health has suffered during
the period of COVID-19? Part 1
Of these, 3% have attempted to end their own life,
15% have contemplated ending their life, 8% have self-
harmed, 17% have sought help for their mental health
and 81% say their stress and anxiety have increased.
In what way(s) do you feel your mental health has suffered during the period of COVID-19? Base: answering
this section and agree or strongly agree their mental health has suffering during the period of COVID-19:
Argentina (312), Australia (581), Brazil (668), Canada (567), China (166), France (382), Germany (220), India (493), My stress and anxiety have increased I have sought help for my mental health I have considered ending my life
Indonesia (295), Italy (164), Japan (419), Kenya (248), Malaysia (207), Mexico (554), Russia (226), Saudi Arabia
I have self-harmed I have attempted to end my life None of these Prefer not to say
(144), South Korea (171), Spain (306), Turkey (388), UK (580), US (670).| Global Student Survey Global findings Mental health and wellbeing | 34
Mental health and wellbeing
In what way(s) do you feel your
mental health has suffered during
the period of COVID-19? Part 2
(continued)
In what way(s) do you feel your mental health has suffered during the period of COVID-19? Base: answering
this section and agree or strongly agree their mental health has suffering during the period of COVID-19:
Argentina (312), Australia (581), Brazil (668), Canada (567), China (166), France (382), Germany (220), India (493), My stress and anxiety have increased I have sought help for my mental health I have considered ending my life
Indonesia (295), Italy (164), Japan (419), Kenya (248), Malaysia (207), Mexico (554), Russia (226), Saudi Arabia
I have self-harmed I have attempted to end my life None of these Prefer not to say
(144), South Korea (171), Spain (306), Turkey (388), UK (580), US (670).| Global Student Survey Global findings Mental health and wellbeing | 35
Mental health and wellbeing
To what extent do you agree
or disagree with the following
statement?: In general, all things
considered, I feel happy
Seven in 10 (70%) undergraduate students across all
the countries polled say all things considered they feel
happy.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statements?: In general, all things considered, I feel
happy. Base: all respondents from: Argentina (500), Australia (1005), Brazil (1000), Canada (1007), China (1000),
France (1000), Germany (511), India (1000), Indonesia (700), Italy (700), Japan (1002), Kenya (500), Malaysia
(500), Mexico (1004), Russia (901), Saudi Arabia (503), South Korea (500), Spain (500), Turkey (1004), UK (1002),
Net: Strongly/slightly disagree Neutral Net: Strongly/slightly agree
US (1000).| Global Student Survey Global findings Mental health and wellbeing | 36
Mental health and wellbeing
To what extent do you currently feel
optimistic or pessimistic?
Over half (56%) of students across all the surveyed
countries feel optimistic, versus only a quarter (26%)
who feel pessimistic. In every country surveyed, there
are more students who feel optimistic than pessimistic.
The first questions in this section are about your mental health and wellbeing. To what extent do you currently
feel optimistic or pessimistic? Base: all respondents answering this section: Argentina (452), Australia (867),
Brazil (884), Canada (782), China (437), France (830), Germany (450), India (868), Indonesia (573), Italy (651),
Japan (888), Kenya (441), Malaysia (465), Mexico (873), Russia (784), Saudi Arabia (230), South Korea (440), Spain
Net: Pessimistic Prefer not to say Neither optimistic nor pessimistic Net: Optimistic
(457), Turkey (673), UK (828), US (889).| Global Student Survey Global findings Mental health and wellbeing | 37
Mental health and wellbeing
Have you experienced any of
the below during the period of
COVID-19? Part 1
14% of students have experienced verbal abuse
during the period of COVID-19, 5% have experienced
cyberbullying, 3% physical violence, and 3% sexual
harassment. While 1% of male students surveyed
experienced sexual harassment during the period of
COVID-19, 4% of female students experienced it.
Have you experienced any of the below during the period of COVID-19? Base: all respondents answering this
section: Argentina (452), Australia (867), Brazil (884), Canada (782), China (437), France (830), Germany (450),
India (868), Indonesia (573), Italy (651), Japan (888), Kenya (441), Malaysia (465), Mexico (873), Russia (784), Saudi
Verbal abuse Cyberbullying Physical violence Sexual harassment None of these Prefer not to say
Arabia (230), South Korea (440), Spain (457), Turkey (673), UK (828), US (889).| Global Student Survey Global findings Mental health and wellbeing | 38
Mental health and wellbeing
Have you experienced any of
the below during the period of
COVID-19? Part 2
(continued)
Have you experienced any of the below during the period of COVID-19? Base: all respondents answering this
section: Argentina (452), Australia (867), Brazil (884), Canada (782), China (437), France (830), Germany (450),
India (868), Indonesia (573), Italy (651), Japan (888), Kenya (441), Malaysia (465), Mexico (873), Russia (784), Saudi
Verbal abuse Cyberbullying Physical violence Sexual harassment None of these Prefer not to say
Arabia (230), South Korea (440), Spain (457), Turkey (673), UK (828), US (889).| Global Student Survey Social attitudes | 39
Social attitudes
Photo by Trung Thanh on Unsplash| Global Student Survey Global findings Social attitudes | 40 Social attitudes Out of the below items, which ONE do you feel is the biggest issue facing your generation? Part 1 The rich getting richer and the poor getting poorer, and access to good quality jobs, are the two biggest issues students feel are facing their generation, chosen by 27% and 25% of respondents respectively across the 21 countries surveyed. This is followed by climate change (20%), ensuring every child gets an education (8%), war and conflict (7%), healthcare provision (7%), and access to good quality housing (6%). Climate change tended to be a bigger concern to students in developed economies, whereas the rich getting richer and the poor getting poorer tended to be a bigger concern in emerging economies. In developed economies, 28% of students say climate change was the biggest issue, compared with only 11% in emerging economies. In emerging economies 31% of students say the rich getting richer and the poor getting poorer was the biggest issue, compared with 23% in developed economies. Out of the below items, which ONE do you feel is the biggest issue facing your generation?, Base: all respondents from: Argentina (500), Australia (1005), Brazil (1000), Canada (1007), China (1000), France (1000), The rich getting richer and the poor getting poorer Access to good quality jobs Climate change Germany (511), India (1000), Indonesia (700), Italy (700), Japan (1002), Kenya (500), Malaysia (500), Mexico (1004), Russia (901), Saudi Arabia (503), South Korea (500), Spain (500), Turkey (1004), UK (1002), US (1000). Ensuring every child gets an education Healthcare provision War and conflict Access to good quality housing
| Global Student Survey Global findings Social attitudes | 41 Social attitudes Out of the below items, which ONE do you feel is the biggest issue facing your generation? Part 2 (continued) Out of the below items, which ONE do you feel is the biggest issue facing your generation?, Base: all respondents from: Argentina (500), Australia (1005), Brazil (1000), Canada (1007), China (1000), France (1000), The rich getting richer and the poor getting poorer Access to good quality jobs Climate change Germany (511), India (1000), Indonesia (700), Italy (700), Japan (1002), Kenya (500), Malaysia (500), Mexico (1004), Russia (901), Saudi Arabia (503), South Korea (500), Spain (500), Turkey (1004), UK (1002), US (1000). Ensuring every child gets an education Healthcare provision War and conflict Access to good quality housing
| Global Student Survey Global findings Social attitudes | 42
Social attitudes
To what extent do you agree or
disagree with this statement: “I
believe I live in an open and free
society that supports diversity, the
less fortunate, and gives everyone
equal opportunities”
A third (33%) of all students surveyed do not believe
they live in an open and free society that supports
diversity, the less fortunate, and gives everyone equal
opportunities.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement: “I believe I live in an open and free society that
supports diversity, the less fortunate, and gives everyone equal opportunities”. Base: all respondents from:
Argentina (500), Australia (1005), Brazil (1000), Canada (1007), China (1000), France (1000), Germany (511), India
(1000), Indonesia (700), Italy (700), Japan (1002), Kenya (500), Malaysia (500), Mexico (1004), Russia (901), Saudi
Net: Strongly/slightly disagree Prefer not to say Neutral Net: Strongly/slightly agree
Arabia (503), South Korea (500), Spain (500), Turkey (1004), UK (1002), US (1000).| Global Student Survey Global findings Social attitudes | 43
Social attitudes
To what extent do you agree
or disagree with the following
statements?: My country is a good
place to live
The three Latin American countries surveyed, alongside
Russia, saw the lowest proportion of students saying their
country was a good place to live.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statements?: My country is a good place to live.
Base: all respondents from: Argentina (500), Australia (1005), Brazil (1000), Canada (1007), China (1000), France
(1000), Germany (511), India (1000), Indonesia (700), Italy (700), Japan (1002), Kenya (500), Malaysia (500),
Mexico (1004), Russia (901), Saudi Arabia (503), South Korea (500), Spain (500), Turkey (1004), UK (1002), US
Net: Strongly/slightly disagree Neutral Net: Strongly/slightly agree
(1000).| Global Student Survey Global findings Social attitudes | 44
Social attitudes
Do you think, all things considered,
the country you currently live in is a
better or worse place to live in than it
was 5 years ago?
In all the Latin American countries polled, more students
thought their country was a worse place to live compared
with five years ago than students who thought it was
a better place to live. In most Asian countries, with the
exception of South Korea, more students thought their
country was a better place to live compared with five years
ago than students who thought it was a worse place to live.
57% of students in Asian countries surveyed thought their
country was a better place to live than five years ago
compared with 26% in Latin American countries, 29% in
European countries and 39% in North American countries
surveyed.
Do you think, all things considered, the country you currently live in is a better or worse place to live in than it
was 5 years ago? Base: all respondents from: Argentina (500), Australia (1005), Brazil (1000), Canada (1007),
China (1000), France (1000), Germany (511), India (1000), Indonesia (700), Italy (700), Japan (1002), Kenya (500),
Malaysia (500), Mexico (1004), Russia (901), Saudi Arabia (503), South Korea (500), Spain (500), Turkey (1004),
Net: Much worse/ a bit worse Prefer not to say Neither better nor worse Net: Much better/ a bit better
UK (1002), US (1000).| Global Student Survey Global findings Social attitudes | 45
Social attitudes
In terms of the number of students
present, how well or poorly
represented do you feel the
following groups are in your college/
university?: Women
In terms of the number of students present, how well or poorly represented do you feel the following groups
are in your college/ university?: Women. Base: all respondents from: Argentina (500), Australia (1005), Brazil
(1000), Canada (1007), China (1000), France (1000), Germany (511), India (1000), Indonesia (700), Italy (700),
Japan (1002), Kenya (500), Malaysia (500), Mexico (1004), Russia (901), Saudi Arabia (503), South Korea (500),
Spain (500), Turkey (1004), UK (1002), US (1000). NOTE: the term ‘college’ was displayed to respondents in the
Net: Very poorly/ quite poorly represented Not sure Neither well nor poorly represented Net: Very well/ quite well represented
US, ‘university’ was displayed to respondents in Canada, India, Indonesia, Kenya and the UK.| Global Student Survey Global findings Social attitudes | 46
Social attitudes
In terms of the number of students
present, how well or poorly
represented do you feel the
following groups are in your college/
university?: Ethnic minorities
In terms of the number of students present, how well or poorly represented do you feel the following groups
are in your college/ university?: Ethnic minorities. Base: all respondents from: Argentina (500), Australia (1005),
Brazil (1000), Canada (1007), China (1000), France (1000), Germany (511), India (1000), Indonesia (700), Italy
(700), Japan (1002), Kenya (500), Malaysia (500), Mexico (1004), Russia (901), Saudi Arabia (503), South Korea
(500), Spain (500), Turkey (1004), UK (1002), US (1000). NOTE: the term ‘college’ was displayed to respondents
Net: Very poorly/ quite poorly represented Not sure Neither well nor poorly represented Net: Very well/ quite well represented
in the US, ‘university’ was displayed to respondents in Canada, India, Indonesia, Kenya and the UK.| Global Student Survey Global findings Social attitudes | 47
Social attitudes
In terms of the number of students
present, how well or poorly
represented do you feel the
following groups are in your college/
university?: People from low income
backgrounds
In terms of the number of students present, how well or poorly represented do you feel the following groups
are in your college/ university?: People from low income backgrounds. Base: all respondents from: Argentina
(500), Australia (1005), Brazil (1000), Canada (1007), China (1000), France (1000), Germany (511), India (1000),
Indonesia (700), Italy (700), Japan (1002), Kenya (500), Malaysia (500), Mexico (1004), Russia (901), Saudi
Arabia (503), South Korea (500), Spain (500), Turkey (1004), UK (1002), US (1000). NOTE: the term ‘college’
was displayed to respondents in the US, ‘university’ was displayed to respondents in Canada, India, Indonesia,
Net: Very poorly/ quite poorly represented Not sure Neither well nor poorly represented Net: Very well/ quite well represented
Kenya and the UK.| Global Student Survey Key country findings | 48 Key country findings
| Global Student Survey Key country findings Argentina | 49
Highlights for Argentina
Only 16% of Argentinian undergraduate students think the
country is a good place to live – the lowest of any country Outlook on Career & Goals (% agree with each statement)
surveyed.
My university/college education is good value for money 77%
Around three-quarters (74%) of Argentinian students think the
country is a worse place to live than it was five years ago, more
My education is preparing me well for the job market 70%
than any other country polled.
Over three-quarters (76%) of Argentinian students have In general, all things considered, I feel happy 69%
struggled with their living costs in the last year, more than any
other country surveyed. 53%
I feel hopeful about my finances in the future
45% agree with the following statement: I believe I will own my own home before I am 35 52%
“I would rather my university/ college offered the choice of more
online learning if it meant paying lower tuition fees.” My country is a good place to live 16%
7% Have a student 69% Feel their mental health has
loan or debt suffered during COVID-19*
Top 3 mental health impacts, amongst the 69%
who feel they have been impacted:
76% have struggled to afford at least one
of the following in the last year:
Top 3 biggest issues facing
their generation:
Rich getting richer, poor
Utilities Food 01
01 Increased stress and anxiety, 87% getting poorer, 36%
49% 27% 02
02 Sought help for their mental health, 19% Access to quality jobs, 29%
Rent/mortgage Medical bills
03 Suicidal thoughts, 11% 25% 18% 03 Climate change, 12%
Base: starting sample size of undergraduates in Argentina aged 18-21 years, n=500; *answered by those willing to discuss mental
health, n=452; feel their mental health has been impacted by COVID-19, n=312| Global Student Survey Key country findings Australia | 50
Highlights for Australia
Nine in 10 (90%) Australian undergraduate students think the country is a good
place to live, the second highest of all the countries surveyed after China (93%) and Outlook on Career & Goals (% agree with each statement)
equal with Canada (90%).
Over two-thirds (67%) of Australian students have a debt or loan related to their
university studies, the second highest of any country surveyed after the UK (84%). My country is a good place to live 90%
After the COVID-19 pandemic, 57% of Australian students would like their university
course to incorporate more online learning, the third highest of any country My education is preparing me well for the job market 72%
surveyed after Saudi Arabia (78%) and China (77%) and equal to South Korea (57%).
Around three-quarters (74%) of Australian students say they would rather their In general, all things considered, I feel happy 69%
college offered the choice of more online learning if it meant paying lower tuition
fees, the fifth highest of the 21 countries surveyed after Canada (83%), China and
Malaysia (both 78%), the US (76%) and Japan (75%). I feel hopeful about my finances in the future 68%
74% agree with the following statement: I believe I will own my own home before I am 35 64%
“I would rather my university/ college offered the choice of more
online learning if it meant paying lower tuition fees.” My university/college education is good value for money 61%
67% Have a student 67% Feel their mental health has
loan or debt suffered during COVID-19*
Top 3 mental health impacts, amongst the 67%
who feel they have been impacted:
48% have struggled to afford at least one
of the following in the last year:
Top 3 biggest issues facing
their generation:
Climate change, 35%
Rent/mortgage Food 01
01 Increased stress and anxiety, 74%
25% 16% 02
Rich getting richer, poor
02 Sought help for their mental health, 36% getting poorer, 19%
Utilities Medical bills
03 Suicidal thoughts, 21% 17% 16% 03 Access to quality jobs, 18%
Base: starting sample size of undergraduates in Australia aged 18-21 years, n=1005; *answered by those willing to discuss mental
health, n=867; feel their mental health has been impacted by COVID-19, n=581| Global Student Survey Key country findings Brazil | 51
Highlights for Brazil
Over three-quarters (76%) of Brazilian undergraduate students
say their mental health has suffered during the period of Outlook on Career & Goals (% agree with each statement)
COVID-19, among the highest of any country surveyed.
My education is preparing me well for the job market 81%
Only 20% of Brazilian students believe they live in an open and
free society that supports diversity, the less fortunate, and
I believe I will own my own home before I am 35 78%
gives everyone equal opportunities – the lowest of any country
surveyed.
I feel hopeful about my finances in the future 73%
Only 39% of Brazilian students think the country is a good
place to live – the third lowest of any country surveyed after 72%
My university/ college education is good value for money
Argentina (16%) and Russia and Mexico (both 37%).
45% agree with the following statement: In general, all things considered, I feel happy 72%
“I would rather my university/ college offered the choice of more
online learning if it meant paying lower tuition fees.” My country is a good place to live 39%
13% Have a student 76% Feel their mental health has
loan or debt suffered during COVID-19*
Top 3 mental health impacts, amongst the 76%
who feel they have been impacted:
61% have struggled to afford at least one
of the following in the last year:
Top 3 biggest issues facing
their generation:
Rich getting richer, poor
Utilities Medical bills 01
01 Increased stress and anxiety, 87% getting poorer, 34%
40% 25% 02
02 Sought help for their mental health, 21% Access to quality jobs, 24%
Food Rent/mortgage
03 Suicidal thoughts, 17% 25% 19% 03 Ensuring every child gets an
education, 14%
Base: starting sample size of undergraduates in Brazil aged 18-21 years, n=1000; *answered by those willing to discuss mental health,
n=884; feel their mental health has been impacted by COVID-19, n=668| Global Student Survey Key country findings Canada | 52
Highlights for Canada
Nearly three-quarters (73%) of Canadian students say their mental health has
suffered during the period of COVID-19, the third highest of any country surveyed Outlook on Career & Goals (% agree with each statement)
after Brazil (76%) and the US (75%).
Over eight in 10 (83%) Canadian students say they would rather their university
offered the choice of more online learning if it meant paying lower tuition fees, more My country is a good place to live 90%
than any other country surveyed.
After the COVID-19 pandemic, 54% of Canadian students would like their university My education is preparing me well for the job market 72%
course to incorporate more online learning, the fourth highest of any country
surveyed after Saudi Arabia (78%), China (77%) and South Korea and Australia (both
57%), and equal to India (54%). I believe I will own my own home before I am 35 70%
Nine in 10 (90%) Canadian students think the country is a good place to live, the
second highest of all the countries surveyed after China (93%) and equal with In general, all things considered, I feel happy 69%
Australia (90%).
83% agree with the following statement: I feel hopeful about my finances in the future 68%
“I would rather my university/ college offered the choice of more
online learning if it meant paying lower tuition fees.” My university/college education is good value for money 60%
45% Have a student 73% Feel their mental health has
loan or debt suffered during COVID-19*
Top 3 mental health impacts, amongst the 73%
who feel they have been impacted:
50% have struggled to afford at least one
of the following in the last year:
Top 3 biggest issues facing
their generation:
Climate change, 30%
Rent/mortgage Utilities 01
01 Increased stress and anxiety, 76%
29% 16% 02
Rich getting richer, poor
02 Sought help for their mental health, 30% getting poorer, 24%
Food Medical bills
03 Suicidal thoughts, 19% 20% 11% 03 Access to quality jobs, 17%
Base: starting sample size of undergraduates in Canada aged 18-21 years, n=1007; *answered by those willing to discuss mental
health, n=782; feel their mental health has been impacted by COVID-19, n=567You can also read
