Insights

9 in 10 College Students Worry About Coronavirus’ Economic Impact

College students’ concerns about the pandemic’s economic impact remain sky high as the United States’ coronavirus outbreak shows no signs of slowing down.

A new college survey of 2,000 undergraduates finds that an overwhelming majority (93%) say they are concerned about coronavirus’ impact on the American job market, roughly the same as in mid-April (92%). More than half (55%) are very concerned, while 38% are somewhat concerned.

In addition to the job market, a strong majority (94%) of students are also concerned about the virus’ impact on the economy in general. But upperclassmen are especially worried. Seniors (62%) are more likely than juniors (59%) and sophomores (54%) to say they are very concerned about the economy.

6 in 10 Seniors are Very Concerned About the Economy

How concerned are you about coronavirus’ impact on the economy in general?

Students now expect to graduate and start their early careers in a recession. A majority (63%) of students overall say they are not confident the U.S. economy will recover before they graduate, an increase from last quarter (55%). However, underclassmen are significantly less worried than upperclassmen. Almost half (48%) of sophomores don’t expect the economy to recover before they graduate, compared to three-quarters (75%) of seniors.

___________________________

Methodology: This survey was designed and conducted by College Pulse. Interviews were conducted among a sample of 2,000 full-time and part-time students attending four-year colleges or universities in the U.S. who are part of College Pulse’s American College Student Panel.

View More Research!

Like what you see? Click here to view more of our public research on College Students.

College Pulse app survey screen

In College? Be Counted!

Participate in surveys, get rewarded, and help highlight the voices of students nationwide. Your input shapes research that matters—join today!

College Pulse app rewards screen