2026年研究生报考人数再降：不是研究生不值钱，而是值钱的人选择了不考研

Core Viewpoint - The decline in the number of graduate school applicants reflects a shift in value perception from academic credentials to practical skills and abilities [6][10][25]. Group 1: Graduate School Trends - The number of applicants for the 2026 graduate school entrance exam is 3.43 million, marking a decrease of 450,000 from 2025, indicating a three-year decline [4][6]. - Many students, particularly those from prestigious universities, are choosing to focus on skill development rather than pursuing further academic qualifications [9][10]. Group 2: Value of Graduate Degrees - Research shows that higher degrees correlate with higher average monthly salaries: PhD (14,823 yuan), Master's (10,113 yuan), Bachelor's (5,825 yuan), and Associate's (3,910 yuan) [14]. - The value of a graduate degree is increasingly assessed based on the skills and capabilities it represents rather than the degree itself [15][20]. Group 3: Shift in Employment Criteria - Companies are moving towards valuing practical skills over academic qualifications, with some high-paying positions not requiring degrees from top universities [22][25]. - The labor market is transitioning from a degree-centric approach to one focused on core competencies and problem-solving abilities [25][27]. Group 4: Real-World Examples - The experiences of individuals who succeeded without advanced degrees highlight the importance of practical skills and real-world experience over formal education [38][44]. - Successful entrepreneurs, such as the founder of Pop Mart, demonstrate that capability and adaptability can lead to significant achievements regardless of academic background [45][48].