The table illustrates the income of graduates and non-graduates in the UK over a 10-year interval, starting from the year 2000, measured in pounds. Overall, people with a university degree earn significantly more than those without. Additionally, individuals aged between 32 and 52 receive the highest income, regardless of their educational background.
At ages 32, 42, and 52, graduates experienced a gradual increase in salary, rising by around £1,000 every 10 years—from £31,500 to £33,500—surpassing the average income of £29,900. In contrast, non-graduates earned less, and their income declined slightly with age, from £19,100 at age 32 to £18,200 at age 52, though this was still above the average income for non-graduates (£17,800).
Regarding the youngest age group (22 years old), the gap between the two categories was not very large, with graduates earning £15,800 and non-graduates earning £14,500. By the time people reached 62, the income difference became more noticeable. Graduates earned £21,300, while non-graduates only earned £15,300, highlighting the long-term value of higher education.