US Higher Education Confidence Continues to Slip

A Gallup survey shows confidence in U.S. colleges and universities has fallen sharply, dropping from 57% in 2015 to 38% in 2026. Support is lowest among Republicans (23%) and has declined among Democrats to 50%. Respondents cite perceived political agendas on campuses (31%), high tuition costs (30%) and inadequate preparation for the workforce (25%) as the top reasons for their distrust.

A separate Public Agenda report finds that young American men are especially skeptical. About 38% believe colleges are designed to benefit women, with the sentiment strongest among young Black men (46%). Half of the men say colleges push liberal views, and many consider a college degree a questionable investment. The report also notes that 22% of men have never considered pursuing a degree after high school, citing poor career guidance.

Both studies highlight growing skepticism toward higher education in the United States, driven by concerns over cost, political bias, and perceived relevance to employment.