OECD Finds One‑in‑Five Teens Eye Degree Jobs Without Uni Plans — Career Guidance Urgency Grows
- Rachel Yuan
- Jun 26
- 1 min read
By age 15, many teenagers have already set high career expectations—but not always realistic or actionable ones. A sweeping OECD study, based on PISA data from 2022, shows that **around 20% of students** across 81 countries aspire to jobs requiring a university degree, *even though they don’t plan to attend one.
This disconnect often stems from **TV and social media glamorizing certain professions**, leading teens to dream prematurely—and without a grounded plan.
Why It Matters
Misaligned expectations risk future frustration > Students may hit dead ends, impacting employment and income.
Socioeconomic factors play a major role > Ambition is often shaped by background, not ability.
Career guidance is uneven > Only half of teens attend job fairs or workplace visits; fewer still receive tailored advice .
What OECD Recommends?
Early, personalized guidance in schools, starting well before age 15.
Employer engagement through job visits, panels, and mentorship programs.
Better parental and teacher support, with career knowledge passed and reinforced at home .
Broader awareness of non‑university pathways, like apprenticeships and certification programs.
Countries implementing robust career guidance are seeing teens transition more smoothly into education and employment. For instance, OECD data shows that students exposed to workplace experience are more likely to secure stable, satisfying jobs later.
The dream of a prestigious career is powerful—but without realistic planning, it can lead to disillusionment. OECD's findings underline an urgent need: **start tailored career guidance early**, engage industry partners, and broaden the definition of success for our next generation.
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