Policies aimed at widening access to university are often underpinned by the assumption that education can act as an equaliser of life chances and a vehicle for social mobility. It frequently does, but a growing body of research suggests this is often wishful thinking.
Studies show that a degree is not always the great leveller and that, even among graduates, there are great social inequalities in labour market outcomes. This uneven playing field is likely to get worse because of growing job uncertainty.
Policies that offer sustained support are needed to ensure people from lower socio-economic groups can reap the benefits associated with a degree. Adequate grants, mentoring and career advice are among the provisions that would help students smoothly transition into good graduate jobs.
