The gender gap between university graduates

In 2024, there were 4.5 million tertiary education graduates across the EU: female university graduates (2.6 million) outnumbered their male counterparts (1.9 million).

Source dataset: educ_uoe_grad01

This pattern of more female than male graduates was observed across most fields of study. It was particularly pronounced among people studying education, where there were 4.0 times as many female as male graduates. The numbers of male and female graduates were similar in the fields of agriculture, forestry, fisheries and veterinary studies, as well as in services. By contrast, there were 3.7 times as many male as female graduates among those who studied information and communication technologies.

Source dataset: educ_uoe_grad03

This information comes from Key figures on Europe - 2026 edition. The publication provides an overview of recent developments in the EU, covering topics from people and society to economy, business, environment and natural resources. For a more detailed view of the EU’s performance in various fields, explore the other Key figures publications.