Globally, access to university is not equal.

Globally, participation rates in higher education are rising. Between 2011-2021, global gross enrolment rates in university increased from 19% to 38% (UNESCO).

Yet significant disparities still exist between the richest and poorest countries, and between regions in those countries.

Only 10% of low-income students access university  compared to 77% of higher-income students.

Across less economically developed countries, a young person's chance of progressing to university and completing an undergraduate education are significantly influenced by their background.

Across 23 OECD countries, a child’s chances of entering university are four times higher if one of their parents has also been to university.

It's time for change.

The Problem(s)

1%
of the poorest 25-29 year olds had completed at least four years of higher education
32%
of 71 low income countries surveyed have defined specific participation targets for any equity group
10%
of low-income students access university

Opening the door to university

Evidence shows that there is no single skill - cognitive or noncognitive - that drives academic outcomes and progression. There is no "silver bullet".

A range of interrelated competencies are required to give under-served young people the best chance of progression to university.

We need programme interventions that provide not just skills, but additional tools, motivation, confidence and self-awareness.

It has to start with partnerships, in local communities. This is where AccessEd comes in.

Read about
our approach

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